Refugee & Immigrant Services & Empowerment (RISE) Volunteers

Join Kansas City Public Library's team of RISE volunteers to help KC immigrants and refugees learn English or become citizens! Commit just 2 – 4 hours per week to help patrons increase English proficiency, study for the Naturalization Civics Test, practice for the Naturalization Interview, and so much more.

Already a volunteer? Log into your portal here.

Fill out the online application
group of people at citizenship ceremony

Volunteering with refugees and immigrants is an enriching experience of building community with a culturally diverse group of people. RISE volunteers will be able to help prospective citizens and English language learners understand the importance of becoming an active, informed community member. These opportunities will also help volunteers develop professional skills, enhance resumes, and allow for networking.

RISE volunteers serve in many capacities. We are currently seeking volunteers for the following positions:

  • English for Citizenship | Wednesdays, 5:00-6:30 p.m. or Saturdays, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
    We study the questions on the naturalization test. Tutors work 1:1 with students to reinforce vocabulary and practice reading and writing.
  • Missouri Driver’s License | Wednesdays, 12:30-2:00 p.m. or Saturdays, 2:00-3:30 p.m.
    We study the written section for the driver’s license test. Tutors will assist the instructor and reinforce difficult concepts.
  • English Basics 1 | Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:00-11:30 a.m. or Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00-6:30 p.m.
  • English Basics 2 | Tuesdays & Thursdays, 2:00-3:30 p.m.
    Our basics classes focus on sound/letter correspondence and how to write the alphabet. Volunteers are needed most for these classes.

1:1 mentor at Central Library, North-East, Plaza, and Waldo branches (starting in September/October):

  • Citizenship Interview Practice Mentor
    Work one-on-one with patrons who are applying for U.S. Citizenship, focusing primarily on the eligibility interview itself. Volunteers will help students become more comfortable and confident with English conversational literacy through mock naturalization interviews.
  • English in Action Conversation Mentor
    Work one-on-one with patrons who want to improve their English. Volunteers will meet for two hours per week with the same patron in order to develop a relationship and practice cultural exchange.

For more information, send us an email or call 816.701.3766

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Experience with literacy coaching, language learning, or tutoring experience preferred
  • Must be a native English speaker/ or have gone through the naturalization process
  • Must be a flexible team player
  • Must be able to work with students of many different skill levels
  • Experience working with non-native English speaking persons a plus
  • Must have a desire and ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds
  • Must be patient, kind, and passionate about refugees and immigrants

The Process

Volunteers must complete an application, pass a background check, and complete 2 hours of training to serve.

Start Application

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