Newcomers to Neighbors

Helping refugees and other newcomers feel at home

—one neighbor at a time.

Newcomers to Neighbors (N2N) partners volunteers with recently arrived families to help them build community and confidently navigate daily life in the United States. Volunteers commit to mentoring and supporting families for four months, helping families learn about public transportation, doctor visits, school connections, resume building, and more.

How It Works

N2N uses a cohort model, pairing groups of volunteers with newcomer families who live in the same area. Families are often grouped by nationality within the same apartment complex, and each cohort is guided by an experienced mentor. Together, over a four month period, the cohort participates in group activities and outings, while volunteers also meet one-on-one with families.

What Newcomers Gain

By the end of the program, families will be able to:

• Make doctor appointments and use public transportation on their own
• Enroll in and benefit from English courses
• Connect with schools and navigate the education system
• Shop independently at local stores and learn about neighborhood resources
• Build resumes, explore employment opportunities, and connect to professional networks
• Find community through places of worship, neighborhood groups, or cultural centers
• Re-enroll in government benefits, apply for rental assistance, and access local food resources

Why It Matters

By walking alongside newcomers during their first months in the U.S., volunteers help families gain the skills and confidence to thrive independently—while forming meaningful cross-cultural friendships along the way.