Catholic Diocese Refugee Services

Mission Statement

Refugees come to America with little more than the clothes on their backs and memories of fleeing their homes. They come to the United States through the State Department's Refugee Resettlement Program and arrive in Northern Virginia ready to begin a new life.

Refugee children start school already behind in language ability and educational experience. They must adjust quickly to "catch up" to their American friends. They struggle with learning English, adjusting to school culture and balancing culture at home.

Make a difference in the life of a refugee student in Alexandria City Public Schools. Volunteer to tutor 1-2 times a week with student on focus areas that need improvement. You can make such a change in the life of a refugee child, right in your own neighborhood!