Students at Montebello School speak thirty-seven different languages. Many students at this diverse school are refugees, and Playworks Coach Mitzi Ortega (pictured above) wanted a way to reach out to Montebello’s refugee families. She decided to organize a service project to bring families together and connect them with resources.
On Mitzi’s Refugee Night, families ate a meal together, had the opportunity to participate in job counseling, and received haircuts, clothing, and hygiene products. As a special treat for the children, everyone was invited to join in Playworks games throughout the night with Montebello’s Junior Coaches.
Mitzi’s project took place during AmeriCorps Week, a time when we thank our coaches for their service to their communities. It’s on nights like Refugee Night that we remember how much would not be possible without the tireless efforts and dedication of our AmeriCorps members.
