We connect local volunteers with refugees in Utah to assist with a variety of needs and create a welcoming and inclusive environment through the Know Your Neighbor Program (KYN).
ABOUT
Since the end of the Vietnam War in the mid-1970s, Utah has welcomed more than 65,000 refugees from more than 40 countries. Although formal refugee resettlement is currently paused, Utah remains home to thousands of refugee families who arrived in recent years. These neighbors bring rich traditions, talents, and life experiences that continue to shape and strengthen our communities.
Know Your Neighbor (KYN) helps build bridges between longtime residents and refugee families by creating opportunities for friendship, support, and connection through volunteering. Whether it’s helping with homework, sharing a meal, or navigating public transportation, volunteers play a vital role in making Utah a more welcoming place for everyone.
Mission: We aim to integrate Utah’s welcoming community and refugee populations by developing friendships through volunteer opportunities.
Vision: Every refugee in the Salt Lake Valley will have an American friend.
Values: Friendship. Community. Compassion. Humanity.
VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHTS
World Refugee Day is a time to honor the resilience, strength, and dreams of refugees around the globe.
Each year, the celebration features meaningful activities that allow refugees to connect, share their journeys, and celebrate their culture and achievements. Know Your Neighbor volunteers have been an integral part of the event, consistently contributing to its success. Their efforts help ensure the festival runs smoothly and that everyone feels welcomed, supported, and uplifted.
When David graduated, it was clear how much Luis meant to him. In fact, David insisted that Luis be part of the celebration, including him in family photos and ensuring that his mentor was right there beside him to share in the joy of the day. This moment of recognition was not just about academic success—it was a testament to the lasting impact of their relationship and the unwavering support that Luis has provided.
“Saturday afternoon I received a message from David telling me that Tuesday would be his high school graduation. For a long time he has been working on obtaining and fulfilling this goal. In his message he told me that he would be very happy if I could go to his graduation, so I did! He saw me and he was very happy despite the fact that all his friends and family were there for him. It was important that I was at his graduation.” -Luis (Mentor who has been matched with David since 2021)
Jamila’s journey as a newcomer to the U.S. has been marked by her determination to build a new life for herself and her family. One of the pivotal moments in her path was the support she received from her volunteer, Taylor, who helped her prepare for her nursing exam. Taylor, a Farsi-speaking volunteer, came to Know Your Neighbor looking for a meaningful way to practice her language skills while also giving back to Afghan refugees following the crisis in Afghanistan.
Their partnership quickly blossomed into something special. With Taylor’s help, Jamila worked tirelessly to master the material for her exam. Together, they navigated the complexities of the nursing exam while building a strong bond that went beyond just study sessions.
At the Welcoming Week celebration at the mayor’s office, Jamila shared her inspiring story with the community, speaking about how Taylor’s help made a huge difference in her journey. It was a moment of pride and joy for Jamila to stand before others and highlight the powerful impact of her volunteer partnership.
CONTACTS
Phoenix Ostermann
Know Your Neighbor Volunteer Coordinator
[email protected] | 385-443-1163
Roxana Orellana
Policy Advisor for Refugees & New Americans
[email protected] | 801-535-6381