Utah Valley Refugees

Volunteer Spotlight - meet Roger, a UVR volunteer mentor!

I retired in December 2022 as a Biology Professor at BYU. Prior to that, I was a Horticulture Professor at The Pennsylvania State University. I love to visit with grandchildren, help where I can, fish, garden and work on cars.

Refugees deserve all the help we can give them. They are in a difficult position, having to navigate a new culture and, often, a new language. It is a pleasure to be able to help.

Did you know?

The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program was made into law by the Refugee Act of 1980. Prior to this act, refugee admissions were inconsistent and preferential treatment was given to certain populations.

This act:
-Gave the power to the president to determine the number of refugees to admit each year after consulting with Congress

-Established the office of refugee resettlement (ORR)

-Standardized refugee admission requirements and program benefits

-Aligned the U.S. definition of refugee with the United Nations' definition

-Authorized asylum pathways for folks in the U.S. and those applying at the border

-Provided clear status for asylees and a pathway towards permanent residency and citizenship

Education is a vital part of becoming self-reliant. For refugees new to the U.S., needed education could include English classes, cultural orientation, GED classes, or higher education programs such as trade school or university.

Many of our client focus on English learning until they are prepared for higher level education courses.

One of our ESL teachers shared:
"Each student comes in with their own challenges and pace but bring so much dedication and they all learn and progress! One student in particular has come so far from illiterate to being able to sound out words and participate in class. Way to go UVR students!"

Do you have a yoga mat gathering dust? Or a guitar that is being neglected? We could use them!

We are starting a few youth and adult programs this summer and are gathering donations for the music and yoga classes.

Items needed include:
-Music instruction books for piano, violin, guitar, and choir
-Yoga mats
-Violins
-Guitars

Donations can be brought to our office at 125 E 300 S Ste 208 Provo, UT between 9-5 Monday through Friday.