Serve with Refugee Resources

At Refugee Resources, our mission is to share the love of Jesus through Gospel-centered relationships while helping refugee students grow in literacy. We serve primarily in the Vickery Meadow neighborhood of Dallas—a richly diverse community where God is at work among the nations.

We believe that true learning and transformation happen through meaningful, consistent relationships. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to come alongside students in one of two programs:

The Reading Circle

Reading Circle is a one-to-one mentoring program for students ages 6–18. Many of our students begin below grade level, facing challenges like limited English and cultural transitions. That’s why consistency is key. We ask Reading Circle mentors to commit to serving weekly for at least one year. No teaching experience is necessary—just a willing heart and a commitment to walk with a student in love and learning. All Reading Circle mentors receive training in our reading curriculum to help you confidently support your student’s individualized literacy journey. Reading Circle volunteers choose one weeknight to serve. You’ll be paired with a student who attends that night.

The Preschool Circle

Preschool Circle is a group-based early learning program for children ages 2–4. Preschool is a vital foundation for future success. Our youngest scholars grow through play, songs, stories, and centers designed to develop physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and early literacy skills. As a Preschool mentor, you’ll attend a hands-on orientation to prepare you for working with learning centers and helping guide children through joyful, developmentally rich experiences.

We ask for consistency to support our students’ growth, but we understand life happens! If you cannot serve weekly, we also welcome substitute mentors.

Please review the Steps to Becoming a Mentor below, then sign up for through the Volunteer Application.

Steps to Becoming a Mentor:

1. Sign Up – Begin by filling out the volunteer form on our website and providing two personal references.

2. Application Fee – We ask applicants to cover the application costs. This $40 fee covers your background check and training materials. Look for the Process Payment button on this page.

3. Screening Process – We’ll follow up with your references and complete a background check to ensure a safe, supportive environment for our students.

4. Attend Orientation—Held monthly, this session offers insight into the refugee resettlement journey and the heart behind our ministry. We’re happy to help you catch up if you missed one.

5. Complete Training – We’ll send you brief training videos that cover literacy strategies, our Bible-based curriculum, and child safety practices. Every volunteer attends an orientation that covers:

   • The refugee experience and resettlement process

   • An overview of Refugee Resources and our mission

   • Program-specific training for either Reading or Preschool Circle

6. Shadow a Mentor – Join us at Reading or Preschool Circle to observe and learn alongside experienced mentors.

After you register, we’ll contact you with the next steps, including training dates and your program placement. You’ll be able to choose a time that works for your schedule.

• Mondays, 5:00–6:30 PM

• Tuesdays, 6:30–8:00 PM

• Wednesdays, 12:15–1:45 PM (Preschool Circle)

• Thursdays, 6:30–8:00 PM

Your Time Makes a Difference

Your presence matters, whether you’re helping a child sound out their first words or singing a song with a preschooler. With every book opened and every heart welcomed, we embody His love—transforming lives, one child, one story, one step at a time.

We trust in His perfect handiwork as He lovingly writes the stories of these scholars’ lives. The Lord has His hand upon each one, and we are honored to join in His redemptive work—believing that He is shaping a future full of hope for every student we serve.

Upcoming Events and Trainings

• Monday, September 15, 7:00 - 8:30 PM

• Monday, October 13, 7:00 - 8:30 PM

• Monday November 10, 7:00 - 8:30 PM