Supporting a displaced family requires more than a willingness to help. It also requires understanding the systems and processes that shape everyday life.

Over the past year, conversations with resettled families, mentors, community leaders, and faith leaders consistently highlighted the need for practical guidance that helps volunteers and small groups provide thoughtful support. From housing and healthcare to employment and education, we know that practical knowledge makes a meaningful difference.

We’re excited to launch our Navigating Systems Guidebook, an 80+ page resource designed for volunteers and small groups supporting displaced families. It provides step-by-step guidance across twelve key areas – housing, food, clothing, translation support, employment, education and English language learning, medical care, transportation, cultural norms and safety, finances, and legal services. The Guidebook was written so it can be used by communities welcoming refugee and immigrant families not only in Oregon, but across the country.

Each section includes a series of practical tasks, along with guidance for approaching common situations and challenges. These steps are designed to help volunteers identify areas where support may be needed, consider important factors, and determine possible next steps. The Guidebook reflects not only our experience over the past decade, but also insights shared by several dozen resettled families, mentors, and community leaders. Throughout, it encourages approaches that honor each family’s dignity, agency, and unique circumstances.

Using the Guidebook

• Begin With the Checklist: Connect with the family to understand their top needs and priorities, then review the checklist to identify areas where support is needed.
• Read as Needed: Each section stands alone, so you can focus on the topics most relevant to the family’s current needs. When you are aware of a particular area that needs support, refer to the corresponding section for guidance.
• Adapt to the Family’s Context: Every family’s experience is unique. Some recommendations may not apply to their situation, so listen closely and adapt to their needs. Be mindful that past experiences or trauma may affect how comfortable a family feels or how ready they are to take on certain tasks.
• Support Through Collaboration: Many families receive support from resettlement agencies and case managers. Before moving forward on a task, especially with housing, school enrollment, benefits, or legal matters, ask if someone else is already helping and if they’d like to connect you with them. Working together helps prevent confusion, avoids duplicating services, and ensures the family gets the support they need.

The Navigating Systems Guidebook is part of our growing collection of free resources designed to equip volunteers, neighborhood groups, and faith communities supporting displaced families. We invite you to explore the Guidebook, share it with others, and use it as your community considers how to support refugee and immigrant families. We hope it becomes a resource you return to again and again.

View the Navigating Systems Guidebook, along with all of our current and upcoming resources here.