The RDC is a vital nonprofit organization created in 2002 to provide critical services for refugees in mid-Michigan. By providing formal and informal learning opportunities, the Center aims to be an open and inclusive place for refugees to learn and locate the resources they need to flourish as residents and citizens.
Many of our programs offer special volunteer opportunities to connect with our community’s newcomers. Volunteers serve once a week in English classes or in after-school programs.
Volunteers commit to serving in a weekly program for one semester (about 15 weeks). Volunteers must be 18 years old and must have completed high school. The RDC requires that all new volunteers attend a mandatory training and submit paperwork to process background checks before they begin their service.
Our spring semester runs January 12th, 2026 - May 14th, 2026. Although our spring semester has already begun, it is not too late to get involved! All volunteers are expected to commit to weekly 2-hour volunteer sessions for the entire semester.
This volunteer location is located in south Lansing. We are located off the #8 bus line. Please note, RDC is an hour bus ride from MSU. RDC is unable to provide transportation support for volunteers in programs.
When signing up for a volunteer shift, please sign up for the same, weekly recurring volunteer shift (example, Monday 2:30-4:30pm for the entire semester).
Volunteers in our Pathway's program will support our digital literacy and driving education efforts. Volunteers in this program may be tasked with assisting our driving simulator, our computer lab, or our driving ESOL class. Volunteers are assigned projects based on organizational needs at the time of service.
Driving Simulator: Assist students with scheduled driving simulator appointments, oversee driving simulator, and close-down driving simulator after appointments. Driving simulator aides will be individually trained.
Driving ESOL Class: Assist weekly in our NEW Adult ESOL Driving Class to support language acquisition and new driving skills. Volunteers in this program will help with the English aspect of programs, no driving instruction skills are necessary! *This is a new program offered at RDC this semester- this description is subject to change as we better map-out what this program looks like.
Computer Lab: Assist weekly in our open computer lab hours. This program is designed for students to drop in when needed, and work on a variety of projects. Some students might be using language learning platforms, some might be working on their resume, and others might be practicing their typing skills. Volunteers will work 1:1 with students in computer lab to help them reach their goals. Basic computer skills are necessary.
