In The Beginning
Our Mission
Empowering refugee students through education.
In the Beginning is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting refugee children and youth by providing access to quality education, mentorship, and resources. We believe education is the first step toward hope, independence, and a better tomorrow.
Learn More About UsOur Programs
Education Support Community
EDUCATION
Developing skills and empowering refugee youth for academic success.
COMMUNITY
Fostering cultural connection and building a supportive civic network.
FAMILY SUPPORT
Providing essential resources and practical guidance to help families thrive.
Our Impact
Creating change, one student at a time.
150+
Students Empowered
5012 hrs
Volunteer Hours
$58500
Donations
Mission
In the Beginning is a student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that began in Chicago with a small group of refugee students, including Rohingya genocide survivors. What started as a local effort has grown into a nationwide initiative, with volunteers and tutoring programs expanding across the United States.
As our community has grown, we now support students and families from a wide range of backgrounds, including refugees from Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Iraq, Somalia, Syria and Sudan. Many of these students have faced significant challenges, and we aim to provide a safe and welcoming space where they can feel supported both academically and personally.
We offer one-on-one tutoring in core subjects such as English, Math, Science along with music and art classes. Our volunteers are students who are passionate about helping others, and we serve not only as tutors, but also as mentors and friends.
Beyond academics, our goal is to help students build confidence, form meaningful connections, and feel a sense of belonging in their new communities. We believe that with the right support, every student can grow, succeed, and move forward with hope.
Our Programs
(1) Education
Empowering refugee youth through student-led hybrid tutoring, delivering comprehensive instruction in core academics and creative arts to support holistic learning.
(2) Community
Building cultural familiarity and civic confidence through community holiday celebrations, guiding refugee students and their families to thrive as active citizens in America.
(3) Family Support
- Job Readiness: Practical guidance and resources for securing sustainable employment.
- Language Literacy: Tailored ESL tutoring for mothers to overcome literacy barriers and build communication confidence.
- Mobility Assistance: Reliable transportation support for essential medical and academic appointments.
- Sewing & Cleaning Services: Empowering refugee mothers to generate income through community-based sewing and cleaning services, with earnings directly benefiting participating refugee families.
Get Involved
Your Support Starts Here
Whether you are looking to share your passion as a volunteer tutor, seeking answers to questions about our programs, or interested in building a meaningful partnership with our organization—we want to hear from you! Every connection brings hope and moves our community forward.
Support Our Mission
Make A Donation
Every contribution makes a difference. Thank you for being part of our journey.
How to Donate via Zelle
Send Your Gift
- Account NameIn The Beginning
- MemoPlease include your Full Name so we can match your donation with your contact info.
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