Volunteer
Be a Great Neighbor! Join us in welcoming newly arrived families to Charlottesville.
There are a number of ways to get involved with IN and help our refugee and SIV neighbors navigate this new experience. During the COVID-19 crisis, we offer volunteer opportunities with various levels of contact.
Complete a volunteer application today.
Great Neighbor Guides
Our Great Neighbor Guides are volunteers matched with a newcomer (an individual or a family) to provide friendship and guidance as they get to know their new community. This program requires in-person contact, a background check, and a six-month commitment. Becoming a Great Neighbor Guide is one of IN's most rewarding volunteer opportunities—and the most beneficial for everyone involved.
Online Learning Support
Everyone is struggling with an online start to the school year, but it is especially challenging for our refugee families who have varying levels of English proficiency, and may not have access to the equipment and WiFi necessary to participate in public education during Covid-19 protocols. IN has established five learning pods to support some of our most vulnerable English Language Learning (ELL) students. We also need volunteers to help support the many refugee students attempting virtual learning at home. This opportunity requires in-person contact at the student's residence. A background check is also required.
Groceries on the Go
Next time you're headed out to the store to pick up groceries for yourself and your family, grab a few extras for a neighbor. Many neighbors are facing reduced work hours and income, or transportation barriers due to shortened public transit hours. IN is coordinating contact-less dropoff of groceries and necessities. No need to make a special trip—just while you're out!
Special Delivery: Food Pantry Liaison
Because many neighbors lack the transportation to get to the food pantry, a significant resource is inaccessible to them. However, a new program bridges that gap. Volunteer Amy Long explains how she began serving as a food pantry proxy for several neighbors during the pandemic, and how you can too, in the video below. For more information on becoming a Food Pantry Liaison, or to volunteer, email: groceries@internationalneighbors.org.