Every year, crises like war, human rights violations, and environmental and economic disasters compel millions of individuals to flee their homes and seek refuge. The United States, as a prime destination, is witnessing an upsurge in the influx of refugees and asylum seekers. Resettlement agencies are at the forefront of assisting these displaced individuals to restart their lives. However, due to challenges around inadequate funding and staffing, volunteer organizations such as the Refugee Community Connection in Chicago are filling the service gaps where resettlement agencies falter, helping and supporting refugees in their resettlement journey.

Volunteers play a crucial role in guiding refugees through the resettlement process, where refugees face obstacles at every turn: language barriers, legal restrictions, cultural differences and bureaucratic hurdles. Without any official support, volunteers struggle with self-doubt, insecurity and a lack of confidence in their ability to help as they navigate a labyrinthine system of rules, regulations, and paperwork. They must make difficult decisions while navigating the unforgiving system of refugee resettlement; decisions that impact the lives of those they support. This great responsibility can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety, fear, and emotional exhaustion, leaving welcomers feeling alone in their struggle to provide hope and comfort to those in need.