Our Work
Our mission is to equip resettled refugees with the resources, skills, and opportunities they need to graduate from college and launch meaningful careers.
Our Holistic Approach
Our work is dedicated to addressing the core academic, financial, professional, and social barriers these students face. We approach this through four strategic pillars that create life-changing opportunities and ripple effects extending into families, workplaces, and communities.
Academic & Career Coaching
Each scholar is paired with a dedicated coach who walks with them throughout their college journey. Coaches provide consistent one-on-one mentoring, helping students strengthen academic skills, explore majors and career pathways, and create personalized graduation plans. They also guide scholars through essential career preparation, including résumé building, LinkedIn training, networking, and interview practice to ensure they are well prepared for what comes after graduation.
Financial Support
For many scholars, financial barriers can end an educational journey before it begins. Our program provides targeted assistance with tuition, books, laptops, citizenship fees, mental health support, and emergency housing so students can focus on achieving their goals.
Professional Experiences
We connect scholars with opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Career trips to major cities expose students to industries and possibilities they may never have imagined. Partner organizations host career events—from company tours and career panels to mock interview workshops and information sessions—that provide invaluable exposure and connections. We also support scholars in finding and excelling in internships, equipping them with the experience and confidence to launch meaningful careers.
Community & Belonging
Beyond academics and careers, 1R scholars need a place to belong. We cultivate a vibrant, supportive community where students find encouragement among peers with shared experiences. This sense of belonging helps them persist through challenges and develop the confidence to give back.
We envision a world where resettled refugees thrive- educated, employed, and recognized for their contributions to the communities where they live and belong.
Our Values
Community: We build meaningful connections that help 1R scholars feel seen and supported—and we know their success will ripple outward, uplifting families, institutions, and entire communities.
Advocacy: We challenge barriers and drive change within systems to ensure equitable access, opportunity, and support.
Readiness: We prepare students with skills, knowledge, and confidence for a professional career.
Excellence: We pursue high standards and continuous growth in all we do.