COAR is largely dependant on the work of volunteers for programs and administration. You can find announcements for volunteer opportunities on our blog or by subscribing to our Volunteer Opportunities email list.

Volunteer Anchor Program

Volunteer Anchor applications for Fall 2009 are open! To apply, just register for the site, then submit an application.

As a Volunteer Anchor, you and a partner will meet on a weekly basis for about five hours with a recently resettled refugee family. You will help with basic English skills as well as the unique needs which the family may have. This could include anything from helping with job applications, to navigating grocery stores, to finding other resources in the valley. More than anything though, you will be building a mutual relationship and will be a friend and mentor.

Reaching Higher College Prep Program

Reaching Higher Mentor applications for Fall 2009 are open! To apply, just register for the site, then submit an application.

COAR is seeking current University students to mentor Reaching Higher Program refugee youth participants. The Reaching Higher Program is a year-long program tailored to the educational needs and obstacles faced by refugee youth. The program is built around a five-part series of monthly, full-day workshops bringing together refugee high school students, volunteer mentors and educational resources to provide guidance and encouragement toward pursuing higher education. However, mentors will also meet with refugee youth participants individually, outside of workshops, in order to provide them with one-on-one mentorship. Mentorship includes the building of a reciprocal relationship with a high-school aged refugee youth, supporting this youth as they go through the processes of applying for college and scholarships, and planning for their future. The Mentor selection process for Reaching Higher is selective. Mentors will be selected based on a variety of traits, including commitment to the program and mentorship, genuine interest in refugees, as well as availability. Ability to attend mentor training sessions as well as all five workshops is required.

Awareness & Advocacy Program

It is also possible to be alerted about other one-time volunteer opportunities, such as setting up for an event or opportunities with partner organizations. To receive notification about these kinds of opportunities, subscribe to our "Volunteer Opportunities" list here:

Subscribe to our Volunteer Opportunities email list

Leadership Positions

Each year, COAR opens up its leadership positions for new applicants. To receive notification about these positions, as well as other formal internships with COAR, subscribe to our "Volunteer Opportunities" list here:

Subscribe to our Volunteer Opportunities email list