Refugees

"I would like to share with you my experience as an intern at the Interfaith of Central Texas Refugee Summer Camp. I spent seven weeks of the summer to help refugee children, ages five to twelve, adjust to their new lives in Austin. I taught them English and math, and went on field trips with them. Despite having experienced an arduous and even tragic past, these children came to the camp with smiles on their faces and a desire to learn everyday. This experience has really opened my eyes to other cultures and how people can be resilient in the face of adversity. There is so much to learn from people without knowing their language or even having a translator to understand their words. Language is hardly a barrier to love and understanding that comes from deep within all people. Building relationships with these wonderful children has been one of the biggest blessings in my life."

~ Erin Fitzgerald, iACT Refugee Summer Camp intern

"I volunteered for a refugee program for two weeks. Working with refugee children opened my eyes to the real problems that our world faces today. For me, the refugee crisis is no longer just an image in the news anymore. In just two weeks these kids taught me that the past is the past, no matter how tragic or devastating. We are here in this moment, and all we can do is change the future. Despite their heart-breaking past, these kids come in with a smile on their face everyday. Their strong attitude and perseverance is incredible and beautiful to witness. I know one day they will grow up and do amazing things. I will never forget them."

~Sophia Cho, iACT Refugee Summer Camp volunteer

More about the Interfaith Action of Central Texas Refugee Program:

http://interfaithtexas.org/iact-for-refugees-2/