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Migrant and Refugee Program

We support children from a migrant or refugee background to feel connected, safe, valued and empowered.

A teacher explaining a task to a class of migrant and refugee children.

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.

Volunteers with Migrant and Refugee Students

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

Act now

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@vinnies-cg.org.au

Contact our team

Supported by

Funded by the St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn.

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