Igniting Minds, Building Futures

Explore our Education Initiatives designed to empower students and adults through inclusive learning environments and skill development.

Discover Our Programs

Our Mission

Empowering Minds, Building Futures

The mission of the Education Department is to create dynamic and inclusive learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of our community.

After-School Program

Empowering students 3rd-12th grade and early college participants to better succeed in their academic and personal lives.

Academic Support Personal Growth

Childcare Training

Supporting Afghan community members in establishing childcare businesses through comprehensive training programs.

Entrepreneurship Career Development

English Classes

Offering free English language classes for refugees and immigrants with interpreter services available.

Language Skills Cultural Integration

After-School Program

Afterschool Program

RISE's Afterschool Program focuses on STEAM activities for youth ages 3–18, helping students explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math in a fun, supportive environment.

The program provides refugee and immigrant students with engaging educational activities and community building in a safe, inclusive learning environment that encourages exploration and growth.

Transportation Provided

Transportation is provided for Southside residents to ensure all students can access our program.

Program Schedule

Mondays and Wednesdays

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Location

302 Burt St (Southside Office)

Sessions

September–December and February–May

Program Focus
  • STEAM exploration (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math)
  • Fun, supportive learning environment
  • Community building activities
  • Age-appropriate activities for youth 3-18

Summer Program

The Summer Program is a two-month paid program for youth ages 10–18, designed to encourage learning, personal growth, and interest in further education.

This program provides structured learning opportunities during summer months, focusing on academic enrichment, personal development, and career exploration in a supportive environment.

Paid Program

Participants receive compensation while engaging in educational and personal growth activities.

Program Schedule

July Session

Middle schoolers (ages 10-13)

August Session

High schoolers (ages 14-18)

Location

302 Burt St (Southside Office)

Program Goals
  • Encourage continued learning during summer
  • Support personal growth and development
  • Spark interest in further education
  • Provide age-appropriate programming
  • Offer compensation for participation

Childcare Business Training for Women from Afghanistan

Empowering Childcare Entrepreneurs

RISE's commitment extends to childcare initiatives, including the ORR Childcare Program. In collaboration with partners like Childcare Solutions and the Onondaga Small Business Development Center, this program supports Afghan community members in establishing childcare businesses.

Comprehensive assistance covers expenses for training, testing, licensing, and inspections, empowering participants with the skills and knowledge needed for successful childcare entrepreneurship.

Program Benefits
  • Business training and development
  • Licensing and inspection support
  • Financial assistance for program expenses
  • Ongoing mentorship and guidance
Childcare Training

Soccer Program

RISE is launching a Soccer Program in partnership with Tilly's Touch, providing youth the opportunity to develop teamwork and athletic skills in a supportive, engaging environment. This program combines physical activity with valuable life lessons, helping participants build confidence, learn cooperation, and stay active.

Schedule

Days & Time: To be announced

Partnership

In collaboration with Tilly's Touch to provide quality athletic programming

Location

To be announced - Details coming soon

Program Benefits
  • Teamwork and cooperation skills development
  • Athletic skill building and physical fitness
  • Confidence building through sports participation
  • Social connection with peers in a positive environment
  • Healthy lifestyle habits and recreational enjoyment
More Information Coming Soon

We're finalizing the details for our Soccer Program. Check back soon for:

  • Specific schedule and practice times
  • Location details
  • Registration information
  • Age groups and skill levels
Contact Information for Youth Programming

For more information about the Soccer Program or any of our youth programs:

asp@refugeeandimmingrant.org

audrey@refugeeandimmigrant.org

English Classes for Adults

Free English Language Classes

Offering open enrollment for free English language classes for refugees and immigrants through RISE (Refugee and Immigrant Self-Empowerment). We offer FREE English as a New Language (ENL) classes for refugees and immigrants with Ukrainian, Dari and Arabic interpreters if required.

We offer different levels of English proficiency classes through Zoom and in person. See our flyer or reach out for the current full schedule of classes.

Class Locations
Syracuse Northeast Community Center

716 Hawley Ave, Syracuse

White Branch Library

763 Butternut St. Syracuse

First Ukrainian Pentecostal Church

3875 Warners Rd, Syracuse, NY 13209

Registration Information

Please feel free to share with anyone who may benefit from our programs.

Contact us to register for classes:

rajendra@refugeeandimmigrant.org

Farid@refugeeandimmigrant.org

Volunteer as an English Teacher

Interested in volunteering as an English teacher?

Fill out our Volunteer ENL Teacher Application Form

Ethnic Community Self Help for Ukrainians (ECSH)

Supporting Ukrainian Community Members

Active enrollment is in progress for Ukrainian registration to direct them towards English learning classes, exploring skill development, employment opportunities and community building with mutual collaboration of RISE and FUPC.

See our brochure for more information about this program and how it supports Ukrainian community members in their transition and integration process.

Ukrainian Community Program

Get In Touch

General Inquiries

farid@refugeeandimmigrant.org

Youth Program

asp@refugeeandimmingrant.org

audrey@refugeeandimmigrant.org

ENL Registration

rajendra@refugeeandimmigrant.org

Farid@refugeeandimmigrant.org