Empowering Communities to Welcome Refugees
WelcomeNST helps refugee families find safety and empowers volunteers through Neighborhood Support Teams (NSTs). NSTs provide housing, education, and more to help families become self-sufficient.
“It’s a privilege to welcome refugees as friends.”
NPR ARTICLE
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST NEWS
AP PUBLICATION
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Neighborhood Support Team (NST) and how does it work?
A Neighborhood Support Team (NST) is made up of people from local communities—like a church group or even a CrossFit gym. These teams raise money and welcome one refugee family into their community. NSTs are matched with families who have legally arrived but are in need of refuge. The NST walks alongside the family on their path to self-sufficiency, guided by experienced mentors. This approach leverages the power of communities to step up, solve problems, and meet needs.
What kind of support do volunteers provide to refugee families?
Neighborhood Support Teams (NSTs) are volunteer groups of 10–20 people who come together to welcome a refugee or immigrant family into their community. Guided by two team leaders and supported with training and mentorship from WelcomeNST, these teams take on everything from securing housing and raising funds to assisting with jobs, education, healthcare, and navigating daily life. NSTs commit to supporting a family for at least six months—but the friendships, impact, and sense of belonging often last a lifetime.
How can I volunteer or get involved?
People are eager to help and just need direction. You can get involved by forming a Neighborhood Support Team (NST), joining an NST, or funding an NST. You can also talk to friends, neighbors, or fellow congregants, make announcements at gatherings like church or rotary club, hold information sessions (Welcome NST will join you via Zoom), connect Welcome NST with someone in your community who might be interested in leading a team (becoming an ambassador), or consider donating to help fund the organization's efforts.