Refugee and Immigration Services is privileged to have so many team mates who help carry out the work of refugee resettlement and immigrant assistance. Our partners are large and small, ranging from professional organizations to children running school collections. Colleagues include: state and local public agencies, universities, area non-profits, faith congregations, donors, individual volunteers, employers, and local businesses.

Without the contributions of each of these friends, our work could not be accomplished.

From the Department of State we receive only $450 per refugee to set up homes for arriving families: every piece of furniture, kitchenware, linens, etc. is donated. Last year, 112 households were prepared with gently used donations valued at more than $152,000.

Volunteers mentored new families and assisted with apartment set up and service delivery. Families visit families, children teach their peers, the mail is interpreted, customs explained, and relationships form over broken bread. Over 6,000 hours were contributed for this kind of support over the past year.

English is essential for a successful future in the US. Each week over 180 volunteers in Hampton, Richmond and Roanoke prepare lesson plans and teach over 400 adults how to speak, read and write English. Other volunteers provide childcare and homework help so parents can attend class. Instruction is provided where our clients live -- the value of their contributions exceeds $600,000 a year -- and in truth, their gift is priceless.

In every arena that volunteers work, they build a bridge for the new arrival. The U.S is a scary place for a newcomer with no familiarity with our language, culture, institutions and procedures. They who once functioned independently are now uncomfortably without resources and certainty on what to do and how to get where they need to be. RIS does not have the staff to attend to all needs and/or questions and walk with those we serve as they make their way. You, our community partners, extend your welcome making them feel they have friends and belong here.

We are deeply indebted to you for all you do.