Orienting Volunteers on Cultural Awareness and Empathy While Working With Refugees

Author

Sangya Dhungana

Date of Completion

5-31-2024

Document Type

Open Access Capstone

First Advisor

Robert Ricketts

Second Advisor

Jeremy Szteiter

Community Engaged/Serving

Part of the UMass Boston Community-Engaged Teaching, Research, and Service Series. //scholarworks.umb.edu/engage

Abstract

It is imperative to recognize that effective volunteer engagement in refugee resettlement hinges upon a deep understanding of cultural dynamics and sensitivities. This paper explores the challenges and complexities of volunteer engagement with refugees, offering insights from the author's experiences, scholarly literature, and theoretical frameworks. The writing highlights the importance of cultural awareness, empathy, and reflective practice in supporting refugees during resettlement while acknowledging the need for ongoing learning and evaluation of volunteer approaches. Relevant concepts and theories from the Critical and Creative Thinking courses are included, integrating perspectives into the author’s analysis of volunteer experiences. Additionally, the paper incorporates metacognitive questions and reflective practices for volunteers, encouraging continuous learning and personal growth. The framework seeks to empower volunteers to navigate complicated interpersonal dynamics and build meaningful connections with refugee families by fostering self-awareness, curiosity, and empathy.

Recommended Citation

Dhungana, Sangya, "Orienting Volunteers on Cultural Awareness and Empathy While Working With Refugees" (2024). Critical and Creative Thinking Capstones Collection. 417.
https://scholarworks.umb.edu/cct_capstone/417