English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) at the Refugee Dream Center is designed to support resettled, adult refugees residing in the state of Rhode Island, supported by both ESOL Professionals and volunteers from surrounding high schools and colleges. The program aims to promote student achievement and self-sufficiency in order to ensure equal access to education for all students. Classes are designed to support adult refugees in attaining sufficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English. The courses employ a curriculum focused on interpersonal English language, crucial job skills, and vocabulary, while maintaining relevancy to U.S. history and civics. Differentiated instructions serve the unique needs of each participant for varied levels of proficiency.

English literacy and basic computer literacy is monitored using formative and summative assessments. Through the implementation of an ESOL curriculum that incorporates interpersonal communication skills for the workplace and other crucial job skills, beneficiaries gain the knowledge and confidence to locate and obtain employment, and/or pursue secondary/post-secondary education. Individualized learning plans are built around critical consciousness, the communicative method, and customized instruction for each student’s level, needs, and goals. 

U.S. citizenship classes, taught by long-term volunteer tutor Len Newman, are designed to to help our community members be better prepared to take the citizenship test when the time comes. Mr. Newman and a group of 6 students meet once a week at the center to prepare for their exams, while other students work with 1:1 mentors to gain additional support in their studies. All students should be at a minimum intermediate level of English level as well as an understanding of the U.S. government’s functions. Classes are held weekly.

For more information, please contact us at info@refugeedreamcenter.org

Job training centers around the goal of helping our community members transition and integrate into U.S. workforce culture. Working alongside case management, this program facilitates coaching and employment support such as resume building, interview skill preparation, job search, and obtaining and maintaining employment.

With the help of case management, this project equips community members with the necessary tools and knowledge to enhance their financial decision-making, establish emergency preparedness, and achieve greater financial stability.

The following topics are covered by the program:

Bank accounts: Discover the various types of bank accounts available, and learn how to select and manage the right accounts to suit your needs.

Credit: Understand the fundamentals of credit and its significance in financial transactions. Gain insights into establishing and maintaining a healthy credit history.

Credit scores: Learn how credit scores are calculated and why they hold significance. Explore the impact of credit scores on loan approvals and other financial aspects.

Fraud protection: Equip yourself with strategies to safeguard against fraud and protect your financial information. Learn how to identify common scams and take preventive measures.

Budgeting: Master the art of budgeting to effectively manage your income and expenses. Discover practical tips for creating and maintaining a budget that aligns with your financial goals.

Self-reliance: Discover strategies and resources to foster self-reliance in your financial journey. Gain knowledge and skills to achieve greater independence and financial resilience.

We believe that by providing these resources, we can empower our community members to make informed financial decisions, be prepared for emergencies, and work towards long-term financial stability.

Homework Helpers is an innovative program pioneered by the Refugee Dream Center that serves both refugee children and their caretaker(s). This program primarily targets younger refugee children of primary school age. Our volunteers are available for tutoring at the center, especially during the school year. Students can come in for help with homework or any other academic project. They can work with other students or one-on-one with a tutor depending on their specific academic needs.

Additionally, as we know, refugees often lack childcare services which can prevent them from actively participating in their communities. So, Homework Helpers also functions as a form of child care here at the center. All individuals who participate in any of our classes or workshops are encouraged to bring their children with them — we always have volunteers present to entertain our students’ children and assist them with homework while their parents learn.

Due to past success with our youth mentorship program focusing on addressing domestic violence, we were able to expand this project into its own program. We convened a cohort of 20 refugee youth to participate in a 3-month program dedicated to discussing domestic and intimate partner violence, and related topics. The cohort met twice a month for their training, with sessions lasting between 2 to 3 hours. These trainings are led by Dr. Omar Bah, with the help of two established staff – a youth mentor, a caseworker, and a program coordinator. We found that this program created a strong support network for refugee youth as a source for guidance and inspiration, and for practical references to useful opportunities and resources for growth.

Our youth soccer league: The Dream Team! This program is for refugee youths of all genders ages 16 and up. Youths meet regularly to play soccer together and make friends in the community.