Our Impact

Day of Dignity is an event hosted by the Chicago Refugee Coalition in partnership with IRUSA. The event is dedicated to supporting refugees and new arrivals by providing essential resources, support, and a sense of community to those in need. Community organizations and volunteers will provide essential supplies, medical and wellness services, employment, education, and community support. The Chicago Student Refugee Coalition was put in charge of the family/student portion of the event. The CSRC will give out donations, and set up games to play with kids, along with creating an entertaining and safe place for the whole family. 

The CSRC is proud to announce the launching of our first-ever international exhibition! The Voice Beyond Borders Exhibition, in partnership with International Youth Diplomats Korea, was an event aimed at empowering the identities and passions of refugee youth all over the world. The exhibition featured elements such as an expert panel of inspiring community leaders with experience regarding newcomers in Chicago, a live interview with the leaders of the International Youth Diplomats Korea organization, discussing refugees and migration from an international angle, and opportunities to raise funds for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. 

The Chicago Student Refugee Coalition joined forces with Bridging the Gap (BTG), a student-led organization dedicated to empowering students through educational transitions in Chicago. Alongside BTG founders Anjali Rodrigo and Damon Rosania, Sou Lynn Beneteau and I presented to both English and Spanish-speaking 6th and 7th graders at Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy about the unique process of transitioning to high school in Chicago. Navigating the transition to high school can be daunting, especially for students new to our city. Our presentation aimed to provide vital insights and information, fostering a deeper understanding of Chicago's unique process. What made this experience special was its authenticity—middle school students heard from fellow students rather than adults, creating a safe space for questions and conversations.

At the CSRC, we are passionate about empowering communities and making a difference in people's lives. The goal for this presentation was to encourage the students at British to do the same and give back to their community. There was lots of engagement! CSRC team members Augie, Raina, Obsnet, Sadia, Sou Lynn, and Jayen presented to the students at British. There they shared their experiences, the mission of CSRC, our events so far, and how they can help. Thank you British Int'l School for this amazing opportunity!

In November of 2023, The Chicago Student Refugee Coalition presented at the United Nations Association - Greater Chicago Chapter. Our work is driven by a deep commitment to upholding the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the UN Refugee Convention, and other international human rights instruments that protect vulnerable populations.  This presentation, focused on the UNA's role in the Protection of Refugee Children's Rights, reflects our commitment to highlighting the specific challenges and vulnerabilities faced by refugee children. We aim to educate our community about these issues, from access to education and healthcare to protection from exploitation and violence, and inspire action in solidarity with refugee children and their families. We believe that by working together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of refugee children and build a more inclusive Chicago for all.