In honor of World Refugee Day, we’re highlighting meaningful ways to support refugees, immigrants, and new Americans in our communities. Utah is home to individuals and families who have come from around the world seeking safety, opportunity, and a fresh start. As they work to rebuild their lives, volunteers play a vital role in offering support, friendship, and practical help. Whether you have just an hour to give or are looking for a more sustained way to make an impact, there are opportunities for everyone. This post outlines both flexible, one-time ways to get involved and ongoing roles that foster deeper connections and lasting change.
Flexible Opportunities
For those looking to get involved without a long-term commitment, there are many flexible volunteer opportunities that make it easy to help in meaningful ways. These short-term roles are perfect for busy schedules or anyone who wants to try volunteering before making a bigger commitment.
Utah Refugee Connection
South Salt Lake
Assemble kits and backpacks for refugees, attend a refugee cultural night event.
> serverefugees.org/serve/
Catholic Community Services
Salt Lake City, Ogden
Pick up, sort, and organize donations at the Sharehouse, prepare and serve meals at St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall, assist in sorting donated food items at the warehouse, and welcome clients to the Weigand Resource Center.
> ccsutah.org/get-involved/volunteer
Utah Valley Refugees
Provo
Donate needed items, host a fundraiser.
> utahvalleyrefugees.org
Cache Refugee and Immigrant Connection
Logan
Host a fundraiser, join the custodial crew, join the housing team to help with moving-related tasks and basic home maintenance.
> cacherefugees.org/volunteer
Sustained Service Opportunities
For those ready to make a deeper commitment, there are ongoing volunteer roles that offer the chance to build strong, meaningful relationships. These opportunities require a more consistent schedule but provide a powerful way to support individuals as they navigate complex systems, learn new skills, and adjust to life in a new country. Volunteers in these roles often become trusted guides and friends, offering not just knowledge, but stability, encouragement, and a sense of community.
Utah Refugee Connection
South Salt Lake
Become a refugee youth mentor or youth tutor.
> serverefugees.org/serve/
English Skills Learning Center
Salt Lake City
Teach English and skill-based classes to adult language learners. Serve as a lead teacher, classroom assistant or support volunteer.
> eslcenter.org/volunteer
Catholic Community Services
Salt Lake County
Become a refugee family mentor, job development volunteer, public transit orientation volunteer, or youth mentor, or as a refugee foster parent.
> ccsutah.org/get-involved/volunteer
Cache Refugee and Immigrant Connection
Logan
Serve on the Community Introduction Team, tutoring individuals as they prepare for the U.S. citizenship test or driver’s license exam, or assisting with housing and employment needs through the Housing and Employment Teams.
> cacherefugees.org/volunteer
Salt Lake City Know Your Neighbor Program
Salt Lake City
Assist with a variety of needs to create a welcoming environment.
> https://www.slc.gov/access-belonging/new-americans-refugees/know-your-neighbor-new/
Good Samaritan Foundation, Rose Park Neighborhood Center
Salt Lake City
Become a Children’s Program volunteer and assist in conducting the Play and Learn Class.
> gsfutah.org/volunteer/
No Mas Legal
Remote (translation), or in-person opportunities in Salt Lake City, Ogden and Logan
Volunteer to assist with translation or explore opportunities for non-lawyers.
> nomaslegal.org/volunteer.html
Please note that the volunteer opportunities listed in this post are provided for informational purposes and are not necessarily endorsed by UServeUtah.