Migrant and Refugee Program
We support children from a migrant or refugee background to feel connected, safe, valued and empowered.
How we help
School based
Volunteers support primary and secondary students in a classroom setting with a teacher present. Activities vary according to the needs of the schools and students and can be a mix of individual and group tasks. Volunteers visit the schools once a week for 2 hours on weekday mornings during the school term.
Activities outside of school
The Migrant and Refugee Program aims to run regular activities outside of school, including school holiday activities and homework and games clubs at local libraries on the weekends.
Who do we support?
We support primary and secondary students in a classroom setting through being strengths based, trauma-informed and relationship focused.
We are strengths based
Children from a migrant, refugee or asylum seeker background can face numerous challenges as they settle into their new life in Australia. However, they bring with them great strengths. We support the children and young people we work with to recognise and value their strengths and empower them to overcome challenges.
We are trauma informed
Trauma Informed Practice is a strengths-based framework which is founded on five core principles – safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration and empowerment as well as respect for diversity. Trauma informed services embrace a message of hope and optimism that recovery is possible. Mental Health Australia: https://mhaustralia.org/general/trauma-informed-practice
We are relationship focused
Positive relationships help children to feel valued, safe and welcome. They develop confidence, build connections and foster a sense of belonging. They are instrumental in nurturing children in the process of healing from trauma.
Get involved
Volunteer with us
To become a volunteer, we are looking for people who are:
- 17 years and above
- Passionate about supporting children and young people from a migrant, refugee or asylum seeker background
- Able to work as a part of the team
- Willing to obtain a Working With Vulnerable People (WWVP) card
Schools or Community Organisations
If you would like to know more about Vinnies’ Migrant and Refugee Program please contact the Youth and Young Adults Team on (02) 6234 7329 or youth.cg@vinnies.org.au
Supported by
Funded by the St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn.