Volunteer – WorldRelief

We all want to make a difference in the world. It’s part of how we are designed. At World Relief, we believe making a difference is a two-way street. Over the past 40+ years, we’ve been guiding people like you to volunteer in ways that make a lasting impact. You can bring your gifts, abilities, and interests, and World Relief will help you connect and walk alongside families and individuals as they rebuild their lives in Chicagoland.

We are so excited to partner with you as you grow, learn, and make a difference through volunteering. Learn more about World Relief, our mission and volunteer expectations and guidelines in our Volunteer Handbook here.

The majority of our volunteer opportunities are taking place in person. Some virtual opportunities are available in small numbers. We encourage you to sign up using the new volunteer application system! If you have questions or run into issues applying, feel free to reach out to us at VolunteerChicagoland@wr.org.

Volunteer Resources

Two women smiling and laughing with baked bread

Volunteer Opportunities

Early Childhood Volunteer
Many young families are forced to flee countries like Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Venezuela for their own safety. As an Early Childhood Volunteer, you can support newly arrived families and their young children through emotional support, games, education, and snacks!

Youth Tutor
Build relationships by coming alongside a refugee or immigrant youth and their parent(s) as they adjust to homework, school, and parenting in the U.S.

English Language Tutor
Practice conversational English and language skills with an adult refugee or immigrant, becoming friends in the process! (Note: Language tutors must be Illinois residents due to funding stipulations).

Friendship Partner
Learn about the cultural adjustment process firsthand and expand your worldview by getting to know a refugee or immigrant family through a supportive friendship focused on cultural awareness alongside practical help navigating life in America. Career Mentorship focused roles also available.

Health Advocate
Provide friendship and support to a refugee or asylee individual or family who is facing extra challenges or barriers to receiving the services they need or is simply experiencing additional stress under COVID.

Citizenship Tutor
Assist immigrants in preparing for their citizenship interview and exam in a one-on-one or small group setting. Held on various evenings/Saturday mornings at partner sites both in-person and virtually across our DuPage and Aurora suburban locations.

Citizenship Assistant

Help with citizenship clinics held once a month in suburban locations. You can serve all or half days and will be in a group! Training is provided on the N400 form and the format of the clinics.

Transportation Assistant
Welcome and empower refugees as they access new places, whether it's picking them up from the airport upon arrival or helping them get to various appointments.

Apartment Set-up Assistants
Create a welcoming environment for refugees and immigrants in their new homes by delivering and setting up household items.

H.O.M.E. Team
Alongside fellow team members from your church, build friendships and provide cultural adjustment support and encouragement to an asylum-seeking family. Through fundraising or other provision, HOME teams also provide 6 months of housing while asylum seekers apply for work authorization. **If you are interested, please reach out to volunteerchicagoland@wr.org to learn more**

Ready to sign up? Choose your location:

Aurora

Chicago

DuPage

Volunteer Testimonials

"Serving in the ESL program has helped me love my diverse city even more, and the students inspire and remind me to love my neighbor each week by their joy, enthusiasm, tenacity, and gratefulness."
- Sarah, World Relief Volunteer

“Pat and I feel very much appreciated, and cherish each family we have helped. We remain friends with several and are enriched by having them in our lives.”
- Pat and Harriett, World Relief Volunteers

"I’ve learned about the needs of refugees and immigrants, immigration law and policy, and teaching English. Mostly, I’ve learned about the world by getting to know immigrants, their lives, and their stories.”
- Paul, World Relief Volunteer

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