Take action today to help victims of crisis in Afghanistan. Here are some ways you can help you can help

The crisis in Afghanistan has humanitarian implications across the globe, including right here in Chicago. VC partners Madonna Mission, Refugee One and World Relief are springing into action to help refugees fleeing the danger in Afghanistan settle into new homes and build new lives as we welcome them to our community. They need help.

VOLUNTEER – Support refugee neighbors in Chicago by volunteering as a mentor for 2 educational programs:

• English as a Second Language (ESL) – Tutoring for refugee women – Both remote and on-site tutoring options available. All persons participating in on-site tutoring must be vaccinated. For remote tutoring, you and your assigned student have the flexibility to choose a day and time that works for both.
• Offered Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9:30-11am
• After School Program (ASP) – Homework help/reading program for refugee students grades K-8. Vaccinations required for volunteers.
• Offered Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 4-5:30 pm

DONATE – Make an immediate difference today through in-kind donations of basic teaching tools, or financial support. Donate here.

To learn more about Madonna Mission, click here.

VOLUNTEER – With new arrivals, we will need all hands on deck and are especially in need of volunteers, with flexible schedules, to help with the arrival process. Volunteers help us with critical needs like setting up apartments and welcoming families at the airport. Apply to volunteer here.

LOCATE HOUSING – Not only will we be in need of volunteers, but we will also be in need of housing opportunities for those coming to the Chicagoland area. If you, or anyone you know, has access to rental property that is available at an affordable rate, contact Robin Johnson at RAJohnson@wr.org

DONATE – Make a one-time or recurring gift to help families fleeing violence and persecution. Your gift helps cover the immediate basics like food, housing, transportation, and also supports families to begin to rebuild their lives here in Chicagoland. Donate here.

To learn more about World Relief, click here.

VOLUNTEER TO BE A MENTOR OR TUTOR – As families arrive, they’ll need volunteers to support them! See more here about becoming a volunteer mentor or tutor for refugee adults or youth. Find out about being a volunteer mentor or tutor here.

ORGANIZE A CO-SPONSOR TEAM – Interested in organizing a co-sponsor team to help welcome a newly arriving refugee family by raising funds, setting up an apartment, and walking alongside them as they adjust? Join the live co-sponsor info session on September 29 or 30. Find out more and sign up here.

DONATE –  Help provide housing assistance, English classes, employment coaching, academic support, mental health services, and more. Donate here.

To find out more about Refugee One, click here.