Refugee Education Center’s Impact

 

In 2024, our exceptional staff served 872 refugee children, parents and caregivers through our programs, and our dedicated program volunteers contributed an incredible 3,066 hours of service — time spent building relationships, offering academic support, and walking alongside refugee children as they navigate life and school in West Michigan.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises exciting new growth as we expand our early childhood programming with the opening of the Boston Square Early Learning Center, coming in fall 2025. We will also transition our K-12 programs to community-based sites in Kentwood, Wyoming, and Grand Rapids, allowing us to bring our services closer to the children and families we serve.

 

1,046

School Staff Trained

More than 1000 school staff were trained on best practices for supporting refugee students and fostering cultural competency in the classroom.

 

87%

Improved Literacy Skills

87% of students in the Project Faulu after school program and BRIDGES students showed improved literacy skills.

 
 

97%

Improvement in School Readiness

97% of BRIDGES students showed improved understanding of school expectations.

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2024 Impact & Outcomes Highlights

52 school districts served

252 students enrolled in school for the first time

573 Students received academic support, social-emotional development, and mentorship

77% of children in Hands Connected early childhood program were assessed to be developmentally on track

134 volunteers served 3,066 hours.

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Share Your Story

Have you volunteered with the Refugee Education Center or been impacted by our program services?
We’d love for you to share your story!

Please use the form below to tell us about your experience with the Refugee Education Center.