Legal refugees in South Florida struggle to find food, work and the basic support to survive.

Unchosen journeys.
Unimaginable beginnings.

Torn from all they knew, they arrived in a place not their own, voiceless, lost, and afraid. All that remained was fear, and the fragile hope their family might at last be safe.

They need many things - but most of all, kindness.

A smile. A patient word. A hand to help them begin again. They want to feed their children, learn this new world, belong, and feel human once more.

They don't want charity - they want a chance.

A job, a purpose, a way to work with their hands and heart to provide. They want to give back, stand tall, and belong.

Refugees are not illegal.

They are survivors who need a path to self-sufficiency

"It's a big difference between immigration and being a refugee,"

"Everytime the war came over closer and closer,"

"They came with a big explosion,"

"You should leave because the Taliban is behind the door,"

A new life takes more than papers … it takes people.

Beyond refuge, we help families to adapt, belong and eventually contribute to our community.

Economic Support

They’re already here. They need help to live.

We provide financial support and guidance to help refugees escape poverty and build independent lives.

Emotional Support

Refugees face extreme isolation and loss.

Our volunteers offer mentorship, friendship, and care -helping them rebuild connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

Education Assistance

The path to work starts here.

A job means survival. We help refugees learn, train, and qualify to provide for their families and build secure, independent futures.

Employment Assistance

Work is the way forward.

Refugees are ready to work but are often overlooked. We help them prove their skills, gain confidence, and secure jobs that lead to independence and dignity.

English

Language is survival.

Without it everyday life becomes impossible. We help refugees learn English - the key to survival, confidence, and connection.

66%

of our adult refugee clients are enrolled in English classes.

50%

of our clients in vocational training achieved successful outcomes; 88% are continuing their studies.

96%

of refugee households that we assist now have at least one person employed—defying the national trend of declining employability.

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Work Training Program

Without certifications, refugees are stuck in low-wage, shift work with no chance of growth.

Turning low-wage work into lasting opportunity

Opening pathways for refugees to reconnect with their professions

Our Work Training Program helps refugees change their futures.

Through programs like Education for Employment Growth and federally funded workforce training, refugees build the skills and financial stability needed to advance in their careers and strengthen their families. This long-term approach counters the national trend of declining employability after five years, empowering refugees to achieve lasting economic independence, contribute to their communities, and create generational opportunity.

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Laia's Story

From instability to confidence and a fresh start

When Laia arrived in Broward County with no English, unstable housing, and an insecure job, she was determined to build a better life for her son. With English classes, employment support, financial aid, and guidance, she gained stability and momentum. Today, she speaks English, has passed her driver’s test, and has moved into her own apartment—now preparing for vocational training and a stronger future.

"People think that the refugees have it easy,

...that now they are here, in America, they will be just fine - but I supporting a very young family, and it's been crisis after crisis. It's very emotional - if I wasn't here, they would just go without."

Jennifer, RAA Volunteer

"She is always attentive, in case we need a medical appointment,

...how to transport ourselves, she's always there to take us, to be there supporting us in everything that is the adaptation process.

AnA, RAA Client

Ali's Story

From crisis and uncertainty to professional accomplishment

Having worked for the U.S. Military, Ali had to flee Afghanistan and arrived unemployed with his pregnant wife. He is now an English-speaking Certified Customer Service agent and Employee of the Month at his new job.

Mali's Story

From vulnerability to stability and new possibilities

Arriving in June 2023 with no English, no qualifications, and a history of trauma, Mali faced severe hardship. Through English classes, food support, trauma-informed care, and employment and financial coaching, Mali gained stability and confidence.

You are the bridge from chaos to belonging

None of this would be possible without your financial support

Make a Donation

This year, resilience defined our community

But behind every success, another story is still waiting for a safe start.

96%

of refugee households are building stability and independence with at least one person now employed.

72%

of families found relief and stability by receiving essential household supplies during times of crisis.

View Report (PDF)

Your support makes this all possible.

Your gift helps provide critical assistance: English classes, employment and economic support, and community volunteer training. Every dollar given is an act of friendship and support to hundreds of refugees.

How your gift helps:

$1050

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Donate Now

Make a one-time donation

Your support is vital to help underserved refugees find the practical and language support they need to navigate life in their new homeland.

Make a monthly donation

Your consistent contributions ensure ongoing support for many refugees who are struggling to overcome crisis and transition out of persistent poverty. It is a gift of stability to help us plan as well as deliver support services.

Volunteer your time

Whether you’re meeting with a refugee family in person, teaching English online, or serving on a committee, your time matters more than you know.