Refugee Education Center’s Impact
2025 was a year of both growth and transition for the Refugee Education Center—one that reflects the strength and adaptability of the community we serve. We moved from our Kentwood office into our new home at HUB 07, where our administrative team and the Boston Square Early Learning Center now share space rooted in community and possibility. Our early learning program expanded significantly, growing from serving 16 children to enrolling 67 children—both refugee and American-born—providing high-quality, culturally responsive education at a critical stage of development.
As we celebrate the Refugee Education Center’s 20th anniversary in 2026, we reflect on the vision of our founders—Somali Bantu refugees who believed in the power of community, education, and opportunity. Their resilience continues to inspire our work today.
We are deeply grateful for the partners, donors, and community members who walk alongside us. Together, we are building a more inclusive and vibrant West Michigan—one where refugee children and families are supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.
We are committed to being an unwavering resource for refugees and the broader immigrant community. Their resilience, talents, and presence enrich West Michigan and strengthen our shared future.
1,395
Served Across All Programs
We transitioned our K–12 programs to a site-based model, increasing accessibility for students and families. Through these efforts, our dedicated team served 1,395 students, parents, and caregivers in 2025—each with their own story, strengths, and aspirations.
94%
Improved Literacy Skills
94% of students in the Project Faulu after school program and BRIDGES students showed improved literacy skills.
83
Graduate and Grow
We had 83 Students enrolled in Graduate and Grow with 9 enrolled in the mentorship program.
2025 Impact & Outcomes Highlights
379 home visits to 206 households
413 students enrolled in k-12 local schools with 139 students enrolled in school for the first time
40.56 hours of training to 757 education professionals from 50 school districts across 12 counties
67 Students enrolled at the Boston Square Early Learning Center with 39 families receiving tuition assistance
125 volunteers served 2,944 hours for an estimated impact of $102,421.76
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.