About

Every year, around 750 refugees from war-torn nations such as Myanmar, Iraq, and Sudan settle in Rochester, NY. They encounter countless challenges, including language barriers, financial instability, and a lack of familiarity with the American system. Many refugee youth in particular face peer pressure and bullying as they struggle to fit in. For the older youth, who are often responsible for caring for younger siblings and making an income, higher education can seem unfeasible. 

With support from the Davis Projects for Peace, the University of Rochester, the M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, and Mary's Place Refugee Outreach, we have organized the Voices of Hope youth empowerment program to help refugee youth develop their talents, motivation, and support to turn their hopes into reality.

The project consists of the following main parts:

1. Leadership Retreat: July 15-19, July 26, August 2

A five-day retreat for 20 middle school and high school students to help them develop essential leadership skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and collaboration. Students will then carry out a community service project and discuss how they can create positive changes in their lives and the lives of others.

2. "A View of Hope" Photography Project and Gala

Students will take photographs throughout the project of anything that inspires them or gives them hope, allowing them to communicate their experiences creatively. These photographs will be displayed at the concluding gala of the project, scheduled for Sunday, August 25. The gala will be open to the community. 

3. College Fair: August 6

An opportunity for students to pursue their goals of higher education by meeting with representatives from local colleges, taking tours of area campuses, and practicing skills that will help them navigate the college admissions process and beyond. We will also develop a handbook of resources for Mary's Place to help students connect with opportunities for college and vocational preparation in the area. 

This blog will continue to be updated with pictures and reflections from the program. Please feel free to contact us with any questions; thank you for your support!

Thank you to the University of Rochester, the Davis Projects for Peace, the M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, Mary's Place Outreach, the Lake Avenue Baptist Church and Karen community, the Assisi Institute, and the University of Rochester Interfaith Chapel for their support.