Bridge Refugee Services is looking for volunteers who can help refugees learn English after they resettle in Chattanooga.
Over the next year, about 40 refugee families will arrive in Chattanooga from Sudan, Somalia, Chad, Cuba, Colombia and Iraq, according to Bridge officials.
“Fleeing persecution and oppression, they are longing to rebuild their lives and raise their children in peace and safety,” said Justin Jones, volunteer coordinator for Bridge.
“One of the major obstacles a refugee must overcome in order to be successful in America is that of language,” he said. “English is the key to gaining competitive employment and becoming self-sufficient.”
Bridge is looking for tutors who can volunteer two to four hours a week for at least two months. No previous experience is required, and the organization offers training and resources to volunteers.