Welcome Corps

This year, you showed what it means to build welcoming communities. More than 140,000 sponsors—from all walks of life—teachers, doctors, faith leaders, veterans, small business owners, students, retirees, and so many others—have stepped up to help refugees find safety and build on our country's long tradition of providing a safe haven for those in need. Thank you for an incredible year of welcome, hope, and community! #WelcomeCorps #RefugeesWelcome

Beware of scams and anyone who asks for or offers payment or services to complete an application. Welcome Corps does not collect funds from private sponsor groups or refugees.

In accordance with Executive Order “Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program,” Welcome Corps is temporarily suspending intake of new applications and processing of all active or previously submitted applications. Visit welcomecorps.org for future updates.

Sponsors play a crucial role in helping refugees feel welcomed as they start their lives in America. Read stories from Welcome Corps groups across the country and #ShareYourWhy to help newcomers find belonging. Check out Stories here: welcomecorps.org/news/

In Jacksonville, Florida, John Filson, a passionate humanitarian, brought his expertise to his local community and welcomed a Syrian family to his Floridian neighborhood with the support of his network and sponsor group. Check out the full story here: welcomecorps.org/stories/from-h…

Dr. Shaza Idris is transforming personal experience into community-driven action by sponsoring refugees and inspiring others to do so. With her sponsor group, they recently welcomed two individuals from Sudan to Rochester, Minnesota, reuniting them with loved ones and providing critical support during their transition. Driven by a deep connection to her Sudanese roots, Shaza has become a passionate advocate for refugee sponsorship. Through her work with the Welcome Corps, she not only helps families navigate resettlement but also empowers others to get involved. Read more about Shaza's sponsorship journey here: welcomecorps.org/stories/guided…

“The happiest moments are when families are reunited - those airport moments when the whole family is there with signs and they see that person come through baggage claim, I’ve never been so happy to pay $40 an hour for parking.” – Joan Walton, Director of Zaman International, a Michigan-based organization who joined forces with the Welcome Corps. Since October, Zaman International has helped 58 individuals resettle with the support of local sponsors and resources, demonstrating the critical role sponsorship plays in successful resettlement. Read their inspiring story below! secondwavemedia.com/features/welco…

Sponsorship enriches everyone involved—not just those being welcomed. It deepens your sense of community, broadens your perspective, and creates lasting bonds that transform lives, including your own. What makes your community a special place? Is it the people, the shared values, or the small acts of kindness that make a difference every day?

@WelcomeCorps sponsors play a critical role in providing a safe, supportive environment for refugees navigating life in the United States. Watch a recent webinar to learn more about refugee status and key information for sponsors welcoming refugees: youtube.com/watch?v=wjWP1g…

Mark Wolff, a French professor at Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, worked with his community to support refugees by leveraging local resources and working together. Their collaboration highlights the power of collective action. Learn more about their story here: welcomecorps.org/stories/resett…

Got your group together but unsure how to divide the work for your sponsorship journey? We’ve created a guide with clear roles and responsibilities to help your team stay organized and effective. Learn more here: welcomecorps.org/become-a-spons…

“We have an opportunity to take someone whose human capital would probably have been wasted, or at least not realize its full potential, and bring them here and have them contribute to society in an amazing way.” A quote from ER Doctor Jonathan “Yoni” Azoulai, who is extending his care beyond the hospital. Together with the Miami Shenandoah sponsor group, Yoni has welcomed a second refugee family, demonstrating the power of community and mindful leadership. Yoni’s efforts are inspiring a new generation to step forward and make a difference through refugee sponsorship. Discover their story here: welcomecorps.org/stories/one-mi…

Small acts of kindness can create inclusive communities, as shared in our recent webinar with leaders and sponsors. This holiday season, give thanks by giving back. Sponsorship offers resources and support for refugee families. Giving Tuesday was just the beginning—let’s keep the movement going. Check out these tips from community leaders.

Willy and Odette turned their personal experiences and the power of their community into meaningful action. Now, it’s your turn. Share this post with friends and family you’d like to invite to form a sponsor group.

Next, they leveraged their resources to provide support. Through the ACA, Willy and Janet accessed resources like jobs, life skills, and education, enabling them to support Ronald and Yoliana in building a brighter future.

How Former Congolese Refugees Willy and Odette Used the Power of Community and Resilience to Welcome Venezuelan Refugees: A Thread🧵