better together.
We support refugees in their journey to become fully participating members of the West Michigan community. We envision a thriving, multicultural West Michigan community where all have an opportunity to pursue a better future!
Thriving Communities
We believe that a diverse set of skills and experiences merged with a shared common goal will lead us to thriving communities where all have the opportunity to pursue a better future.
Our Partners
Our programs and services are made possible by the generous support of our corporate and foundation partners as well as many individuals across West Michigan.
Our Impact
We walk alongside refugees in the post-settlement phase of their journey —continuing services for however long it takes to provide the tools and remove the barriers to fully participate in the community. Learn more.
80%+
student achievement
Over 80% of student participants in our education programs have achieved key academic markers such as reading scores.
25+
Birth-Countries Represented
Grand Rapids has a long history of welcoming refugees. Our community has become the new home to people from all over the world.
5k+
Refugees supported
It has been our privilege to walk along side thousands of new American families in their journey to full participation.
Programs & Services
We have distilled, through our years of service and experience, the elements of post-resettlement life that most serve to prepare a refugee for full participation in their community. While we recognize that life is complex, and every story unique, we believe these areas, once addressed, best prepare a person. We have modeled our programs and services to reflect these five key elements.
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A New Home:
“My children need to know that they are safe here. We are no longer living in a war torn country, but our children still struggle to feel safe here. We need teachers, parents, and other children to make an intentional effort to help us feel safe and at home, and REC helps make this a reality.”
- REC Parent
Consulting
At our core, we are educators. We have navigated and created systems. We have gained the trust of refugees and community leaders alike. We educate communities and organizations on how they can embrace their new American neighbors.
Get Involved
Do you want to walk alongside the Refugee Education Center and our new American neighbors? From tutoring to hosting an event to holding a garage sale, there are many ways that you can get involved!
Make the “better together.” pledge
Your voice matters. Together, our collective effort can make West Michigan a more welcoming place!
Volunteer opportunities
There are many ways to volunteer with the Refugee Education Center. We depend on volunteers to multiply our impact, no experience required!
Hold a fundraiser
Run a 5k, host a neighborhood garage sale, donate your birthday, and more. Get create and host your own online or physical fundraiser to support our mission.
Do you have plans for #GivingTuesday?
Consider becoming a #FriendsgivingTuesday ambassador for the Refugee Education Center!