Tutor a Refugee Youth in Sammamish!

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Refugees Northwest Foster Care (a program of Lutheran Community Services) serves refugee and immigrant youth who are resettling alone in the United States. They have left behind war, persecution or instability that separated them from their families. International agencies and the federal government have determined that these youth are extremely vulnerable without an adult to care for them and they are referred to our agency as unaccompanied children for foster care. Through our program, children are welcomed by foster families who have made a long-term commitment to their care. We serve children, primarily teenagers, from countries throughout Asia, Africa and Central America.

We are seeking volunteers interested in tutoring refugee and immigrant youth, the majority of whom are in high school working towards their diplomas. Aside from the challenges that come with high school for many students, these students are entering US school systems for the first time and are usually trying to gain English language skills. It is very important for our youth to have tutors and educational supports to encourage them through this time. Volunteers who speak another language, have experience living cross-culturally, or have worked with youth of color are encouraged to apply. Currently we have a newly arrived refugee youth in Sammamish in need of a tutor to help with intensive English, high school subjects, and basic organizational skills. A Somali speaker preferred but not required.

At a minimum, volunteers need to be at least 21 years old, be able to commit to one year, and meet with the youth once a week. Volunteers are matched individually with a youth, and work very independently once they are matched; setting a meeting schedule is up to the youth and their volunteer. Youth will often meet with tutors after school hours during weekdays, usually for an hour or two.

If interested, please contact, May Saetern/Program Assistant, at msaetern@lcsnw.org.