Why Volunteer?
- Build meaningful relationships
- Learn from diverse perspectives
- Strengthen your local community
- Gain volunteer experience and leadership skills
What You’ll Need
- A willingness to listen and learn
- Respect for all backgrounds and beliefs
- A few hours a month to give
Know Your Neighbor Goals
Fill a Need
Utah’s refugees thrive when they receive the support they need to resettle and build a life here. We listen first—our volunteer opportunities are shaped by what refugees ask for.
Facilitate Friendship
The most important factor in successful resettlement is friendship. Know Your Neighbor creates space for refugees and community members to connect. These relationships help refugees feel welcome and supported, and volunteers gain meaningful friendships and become stronger advocates for their neighbors.
After you submit your sign up form, you’ll receive a welcome email from our coordinator with next steps. It will explain how we’ll match you with a refugee neighbor and share info about orientation and training.
Current Volunteer Opportunities
Reading & Writing Support (Salt Lake City – Rose Park)
Volunteers are needed to help a community member continue English reading and writing practice, with the long-term goal of preparing for a GED.
Tech-Savvy Volunteers (Salt Lake City)
The Refugee Services Office is seeking volunteers with IT backgrounds to support upcoming courses in Python, Google Cloud Certification, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). Courses begin in early 2026.
Tutoring for Youth (Bountiful)
A middle school student is looking for a mentor and tutor in math, science, and English. Volunteers who are patient and encouraging role models are especially welcome.
Foster Families Needed (Utah – Statewide)
Catholic Community Services is seeking foster families for unaccompanied refugee minors. These youth, ages 14–17, arrive from diverse countries and need loving homes. Monthly information sessions are held via Zoom.
MCAT Tutor (Salt Lake City)
A college student preparing for medical school is seeking a tutor to help with MCAT preparation. Sessions would ideally be held twice a week.
English Conversation Partners (Midvale)
A mother of two is looking for a volunteer to practice conversational English. This is also a chance for cultural exchange, as her first language is Arabic.
Cultural Exchange & Friendship (Murray)
An adult working toward educational goals, such as passing the GED, would benefit from volunteers who can practice English with them and provide encouragement. Flexible scheduling is appreciated.
Transportation Coaching (Salt Lake City)
Volunteers are needed to help newcomers learn how to navigate public transportation and prepare for the written driver’s license exam.
Sewing Teachers (Salt Lake City – Utah Refugee Center)
The Utah Refugee Center is offering beginner sewing classes starting in January. Volunteers with sewing skills are invited to assist instructors. Sporadic commitment is welcome.
Grant & Outreach Support (Salt Lake City)
The UnDEfeated Refugee Organization is seeking a volunteer to assist with grant applications, outreach, and event support. Strong writing and communication skills are helpful.
Family Friendship (Layton)
Families in the community are looking for volunteers to spend time with parents and children, offering friendship, support, and opportunities for English practice through everyday activities.
Community Building (West Valley City)
Individuals seeking connection and cultural exchange would love to meet volunteers interested in friendship and language practice. This is a chance to share cultures and build community together.
Support for Children with Special Needs (Salt Lake City – Rose Park)
A child with developmental delays would benefit from one-on-one time with a caring volunteer. Activities could include playing, drawing, or outdoor fun.
Homework Help (West Valley City)
Elementary-aged siblings are looking for a volunteer to help reinforce classroom concepts and assist with homework once a week in the evenings.
Resources to help you thrive as a Know Your Neighbor Volunteer
- Salt Lake City Community Resource Guide
- The Good Neighbor Guide (SLC specific)
- Refugee Services Office
- RSO Refugee Provider Resource Manual
Questions?
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5 PM
Phoenix Ostermann
Know Your Neighbor Volunteer Coordinator
[email protected] | 385-443-1163
Roxana Orellana
Policy Advisor for New Americans
[email protected] | 801-535-6381