Lauren Migrants, Refugees, Volunteering

Connecting with Refugees and Migrants in Your Area

Reaching out to assist newcomers in your area can be a helpful and culturally enriching experience.

The United States has a long history of assisting those from other countries as they flee war, persecution, and difficult living conditions. Recently, the demand to help resettle these new neighbors has grown, meaning cities and organizations are finding themselves overrun and are turning to volunteers to fill in the gaps. Regardless of your political leanings on how individuals enter the country, the need to recognize the humanitarian crisis that lies at the center of the issue is crucial. While helping a refugee or migrant has obvious benefits for those coming to the US, those volunteering their time or resources can also be enriched, as well as the community as a whole.

Consider some of the following benefits for all parties in helping newcomers to the United States.

  1. Humanitarian Impact:
    • Saving Lives: Providing refuge to individuals fleeing conflict or persecution can literally save lives. Many refugees and migrants face life-threatening situations in their home countries, and offering them a safe haven can be crucial for their survival.
    • Human Dignity: Helping newcomers preserves and upholds human dignity by offering them a chance to rebuild their lives with basic necessities such as shelter, food, and healthcare.
  2. Cultural Enrichment:
    • Diversity and Cultural Exchange: Refugees and migrants often bring a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and skills to their host communities. This exchange can enhance cultural understanding, promote tolerance, and contribute to a more vibrant and diverse society.
  3. Economic Contributions:
    • Workforce and Entrepreneurship: Newcomers, once integrated, can become a valuable part of the labor force. Many are skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, or workers who can contribute to the economy, filling gaps in the workforce and fostering economic growth.
  4. International Cooperation:
    • Building Solidarity: Assisting refugees and migrants fosters a sense of global solidarity and cooperation. It encourages nations to work together to address humanitarian crises and demonstrates a commitment to shared values of compassion and empathy.
  5. Long-Term Social Integration:
    • Social Cohesion: Integrating refugees and migrants into host communities promotes social cohesion and inclusivity. This process can break down stereotypes, reduce prejudice, and create a more harmonious society.
  6. Education and Skill Development:
    • Education Opportunities: Offering education to children and adults helps break the cycle of poverty and enhances their ability to contribute positively to society.
    • Skill Development: Refugees and migrants often bring diverse skills and experiences. Supporting their skill development and education can result in a more skilled and adaptable workforce.
  7. Psychological Well-being:
    • Mental Health Support: Refugees and migrants often experience trauma and stress. Providing mental health support and counseling services helps them cope with their past experiences and build resilience for the future.

In summary, helping newcomers goes beyond immediate humanitarian aid; it has far-reaching positive impacts on individuals, communities, and the global society as a whole. Reach out to your city or community to see if there are areas in which you can assist newcomers. Additionally, you can get involved with the International Rescue Committee. They have offices in most major cities.