International house

International House develops and maintains services which provide regular ongoing contact with internationals while also developing genuine, long-term relationships.  
 
International House offers a variety of programs for refugees and immigrants in a friendly and hospitable environment.  They offer programs such as English Language Learning, Citizenship class, Womens Club, Medical and Social services Liaison, Kinds Zone, and the SHINE Girls club.  All of the programs that they offer are free of charge and conducted in a safe and supportive space. The Chapel has supported International House through Go Days, summer camp donations, and collections over the years.
 
International House relies heavily on volunteers and are always looking for new volunteers to join their team.
 

Learning to read, write, speak, and understand English, their local language, empowers our refugee and immigrant friends to make decisions and gives them agency to thrive in their community.

Volunteers teach English in the home, in a classroom setting, and at satellite locations in Fort Wayne, using a variety of curricula.  
In-home tutors genuinely make a significant difference in the lives of refugees and immigrants. Our goal is to meet each student where they are and advance them to the level they strive for. In-home tutors work one-on-one rather than in a group setting. In addition, In-home tutors have opportunities to be immersed in another culture and are usually offered delicious ethnic food by their students!

Volunteers have the opportunity to walk alongside refugees as they transport them to appointments and assist them with the process of checking in and managing future appointments. You don't need any medical experience. This program addresses the need for modeling, advocacy, education, and empowerment as refugees and immigrants seek healthcare and social service benefits. This program supports immigrants and refugees by ensuring they are welcomed with dignity and assisted in accessing healthcare and other critical resources. 

Newly arriving refugee children thrive when surrounded by a welcoming mentor and advocate for both educational and social assistance. Volunteers are needed to tutor children in their homes after school, reading to them and helping them understand the social norms of the American school system. Another opportunity would be caring for pre-school children during our women's classes. iHouse offers a safe and structured environment for preschool children to thrive while their mothers attend English classes. Childcare is a huge barrier for most of our international friends. Without iHouse childcare, many of our ladies would not have had the opportunity to learn English.