Peer to Peer

Peer to Peer strives to support the local refugee population by helping refugee youth integrate into their new communities. This is accomplished by providing UMD student-mentors to volunteer at after-school and weekend programming for refugee students in Prince George’s county to improve their academic and social skills through interactive activities and homework support.

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As stated by the United Nations, the world is currently experiencing the highest levels of displacement on record. Individuals displaced can register to be given refugee status if they are forced to flee their home, cross an international border, and are unable to return home due to well-founded fear. After registration with the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, individuals and families can apply for resettlement if local integration is not possible. The vetting process takes anywhere from 18 months to more than 20 years which is why less than 1% of the world’s refugees will be resettled.

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According to the UNHCR, half of the world’s refugees are children and more than half of the children old enough to attend school are not receiving an education. The children that do get resettled in a new country, must be able to adapt to the new and learn the necessary skills to start and thrive in this new environment. However, they must overcome many obstacles such as a language barrier, completely different culture, and having no friends or nearby relatives. This issue is the focus of Peer to Peer. The organization recognizes the challenge these refugee youth face and works to support them academically, socially, and emotionally in safe, welcoming environments.

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