Our Insights

MindSpringers Give Back: Susie Golden and RefugeeOne

by MindSpring Partners on April 9, 2020 in Chicago, MindSpring News

 

We could all use a little positivity right now, and since it’s National Volunteering Month, April is perfect for just that. In recognition, we’re highlighting how our team gives back all year round with the MindSpringers Give Back series, kicking off with senior recruiter, Susie Golden!
 

Susie’s Second Family

 

Susie partners with RefugeeOne, a nonprofit that supports refugees fleeing war, terror, and persecution so that they can feel safe, become self-reliant, and thrive. RefugeeOne’s mission relies on passionate volunteers like Susie to serve as a partner and friend for a refugee family as they transition to life in the United States. Since the program first began in 1982, RefugeeOne has welcomed 18,000 refugees to their home – greeting them at the airport and providing furnished apartments, English classes, job search support, and much more.

 

Susie’s refugee family is from Eritrea and she has been working with them for over three years. To say it’s a “rewarding experience” for Susie would be an understatement – here it is in her own words:

 

“Amara (the mom) is frankly the most bad-ass woman I know. She’s raising two incredible, grounded, and smart kids completely on her own, working full-time through nights and weekends to provide for them, and just recently passed the citizenship test! What started out as a weekly tutoring session with the youngest child, Waad, has become so, so much more than that. They truly are family to me.”

 

Well, Susie, we’re thankful that you’re part of the MindSpring family! You inspire us all to identify more ways we can exemplify MindSpring’s values by supporting our communities and giving back to those who need it most.


 

 

Inspired to join Susie and get involved with RefugeeOne? Take a look at their Chicago-based volunteer opportunities to learn how you can help out in the future, or consider making a donation to make an impact today!

 
 

Chicago Organizations that Need Your Support

 

While we’re happy to shelter in place and help support the safety of our community, we do miss the ways we typically give back. We’ve compiled a list of charitable orgs near and dear to our hearts. Take a look for additional opportunities to give back to the Chicago community during this time.