Program Happenings

RRISA is pleased to announce that we are working in partnership with the DeKalb County School System on a competitive grant process by submitting an application to the Georgia Department of Education for a FY12 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant under Title IV-B. For more information, please contact Laura Medders, Education and Youth Program Manager at 404.622.2235 x 248.

 We are so proud of the students in our current 21st Century Safe Places Program. RRISA, through this partnership with DeKalb County Schools, provides services to over 150 students at 4 different schools. Our accomplishments include:

• Our students represent 22 countries and five continents.

• 25% of RRISA's after-school students made Honor Roll or Principal's List.

• RRISA’s after-school program at Avondale Middle School was nationally recognized as a model site for its Technology Program.
   

How to Get Involved

1. Donate to the Youth Program to sustain these vital programs and help us purchase classroom supplies.
2. Volunteer to be a homework helper or tutor for our after-school programs.
3. Donate needed items such as school supplies, backpacks and children’s books.
4. To get involved with the Refugee Youth Program or for more information, please contact Laura Medders at 404.622.2235 ext. 248 or Laura@rrisa.org

Refugee Resettlement
& Immigration Services of Atlanta

Education and Youth Programs

The adjustment to life in America is extremely difficult for refugee children. These children have come to the United States after escaping war and persecution in their countries. During the first few years in the U.S., the children must learn English, adapt to a new environment and work to catch up with their classmates in school. Often, refugee children experience challenges, having never attended school or having experienced gaps in their education due to violence and dislocation.

The RRISA After-School and Summer Program is designed to help children and youth adjust both socially and academically to the American school environment.

RRISA provides after-school and summer programs on site at four Dekalb County Schools; Avondale Elementary, the International Community School, Avondale Middle School and Stone Mountain Middle School. We provide these programs to refugee, immigrant and low-income children free of charge.

Students enrolled in the RRISA after-school programs receive:

• homework help
• academic enrichment
• nutritious snacks
• physical fitness activities
• a range of educational activities designed to engage students

RRISA’s summer programs are an extension of our after-school programs. We provide students with a safe and structured environment for learning and play. Students review basic reading and math skills and participate in enrichment activities in sports, art, and technology.