From Resettlement to Belonging

From Resettlement to Belonging: Opportunities for Refugee Leadership and Civic Participation

Refugees fleeing violence or persecution in their countries of origin must employ remarkable courage and resourcefulness to survive a long and harrowing journey to safety. Many were leaders in their home countries or in refugee camps, yet their leadership skills and lived experiences often go largely unnoticed and untapped.

In recent years, a growing number of organizations across the US have invested in refugee leadership. “From Resettlement to Belonging: Opportunities for Refugee Leadership and Civic Participation” summarizes models of refugee leadership development and civic participation programs, identifies keys to success, and uplifts the stories of diverse training components with refugee leaders and their impact.

We have featured Unbound grantee partners, as well as other organizations doing outstanding work in this field. The report also profiles several extraordinary refugee leaders. 

The number and scale of refugee leadership and civic participation programs have grown tremendously over the last five years; yet this field holds significant potential for growth and is ripe for philanthropic investment to expand civic participation as more refugees enter the US.