Volunteer
Your community needs you.
North Carolina has been in the Top 10 resettlement states in the U.S for the last few years, and that’s thanks in part to a large network of big-hearted volunteers. Are you interested in doing the work of building a more inclusive community? Do you believe in a Charlotte where everyone has a place to call home and the space to thrive? Us, too! Volunteer today to help us build welcome.
about volunteering
Come as a neighbor,
leave as a friend.
Every year, hundreds volunteer through Refugee Support Services, putting thousands of service hours toward the Work of Welcome.
As a volunteer, you are:
- Supporting program participants as they transition into their new lives in the USA
- Providing support, mentorship, and resources alongside program participants and other volunteers
- Bridging cultures and fostering an understanding within our community
- Helping run events, workshops, and other initiatives to build welcome and belonging across the Charlotte metro area
- Enriching your own life with new experiences, cross-cultural insights, and lifelong friendships
- Educating yourself through trainings such as our free 30-minute Refugee 101 class
No experience working alongside refugees and other immigrants? No problem! We offer training and support for all our volunteers to help you feel confident and equipped in your role.
getting started
Become a volunteer
in 5 easy steps:
1.
Fill out a volunteer application.
2.
Attend a virtual orientation.
3.
Complete a background check if 18 years and above or Minor Waiver Release if age 17 or below.
If you are below the age of 17 you will apply and the legal adult(s) who accompany you at each of your volunteer shifts will need to complete the volunteer on-boarding process as well.
4.
Get started as a volunteer!
volunteer FAQ
Questions?
Answers.
What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for individuals?
We have individual volunteer opportunities in all of our program areas during the week. Program areas include the Workforce & Artisan Programs, the Mentor Programs, the Youth Education Programs, the Community Navigation Programs, Adult Education and special events.
Do you have volunteer opportunities for groups?
Great question! Occasionally we have in-person opportunities for groups through special events and workshops. For more information about current group volunteer opportunities, please email us at info@refugeesupportservices.org.
What if I can’t volunteer on-site during the week?
No problem! We have special weekend events throughout the year and will send out emails with sign-up opportunities for those.
What are the requirements to volunteer?
Great news! There is no prior experience required. All volunteer age 18 and above are required to complete a background check. Volunteers can also be 17 (with parental consent) or under 17 (with a parent or guardian present. Please note that accompany adult(s) must complete the volunteer on-boarding process as well).
Yes, RSS occasionally accepts interns who are 17 or older. If you are interested in an internship, please send your resume and information about your internship program requirements to info@refugeesupportservices.org.
I’d love an RSS volunteer t-shirt for myself or as a gift. Where can I get one?
Awesome! You can place orders for RSS volunteer shirts here.
Show your affiliation with RSS while helping advance our mission.
Order a volunteer tshirt!
Order a tshirt
The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.
– Coretta Scott King
Questions about volunteering?
Send us a note.