We create systems that connect people to the resources they need, and mobilize institutions to eliminate barriers to access.
Centering transformative relationships, we work at the intersection of social mobility, health equity, and language justice.
We use community-led design to disrupt threats to the health and safety of refugee and migrant communities.
Individuals and communities have fundamental rights to language, culture, self expression, and equal participation. We challenge the English dominance and Euro-centric definitions of knowledge and leadership by investing time and resources in leadership development of Members, so that they can represent their community’s own priorities. And we alter institutions to provide space for full democratic participation.
It's all about relationships. We believe in the enduring power of mutual aid, and build on the social and emotional support that exists within and across neighbors. We create and sustain transformative relationships, where both parties take care of one another. In addition to being wonderfully reciprocal, these relationships are grounded in a critical awareness of structures and legacies of power and oppression, so that we may experience radical companionship and solidarity - across lines of difference - in the here and now.
Societally, English improficiency is, historically and presently, a tool used for the political and economic exclusion and exploitation of migrant and refugee communities. English dominant environments undermine self-agency, increase isolation, and prevent public information from reaching non-English-primary speaking communities. We work to level the playing field by opening the door to public knowledge and idea exchange, establishing language autonomy, and building a body of data to evaluate practices within institutions.
We dream in language, we sing in language, we think in language. It is tied to our lands, to our bodies, to our relationships, and to our knowledge. It is important that we feel respected as speakers—not just for what we have to say, but also how we say it.
- Antena Aire
Our blueprint is to take care of each other. We work toward divesting from dominant culture norms, expectations, and structures that are designed to undermine that.
We are a volunteer-driven organization that believes in the transformative power of relationship-based community organizing, and deliberate reciprocity.
As Bridge Builder volunteers, we work closely alongside RCP families to assist them in reaching their goals. Bridge Builders join a Neighborhood Pod, made up of other Bridge Builder volunteers and a Pod Leader. Pods are mini-support communities, where Bridge Builders join together to problem solve, share tips and resources, and celebrate successes. This is a unique and powerful experience for volunteers of all ages. While we prefer volunteers be able to commit for 2+ years, Bridge Builders involves a 1 year minimum commitment, visiting with families for ~4 hours per week, and participating in RCP's regular community events.
APPLYGrassroots donations is the only way this work can happen long term. Join everyday folks in making donations to RCP to keep this work alive and sustainable! Make an online donation here (one-time or monthly!), write a check, share our Facebook fundraisers - the opportunities are endless :)
DONATEAre you excited about the work we do? Do you enjoy leading the charge, and giving your time and expertise to a good cause? Consider becoming an advisor or board member to the Refugee Community Partnership. We need a wide array of talent and experience in order to build a powerful community.
Do you have specific skills or talents you'd like to use to help RCP further its mission? If you are a photographer, website guru, social media strategist, journalist, graphic designer, multi-lingual speaker, or other specially skilled magician, consider volunteering your expertise