August Pro Se Asylum Workshop Volunteer Sign-Up

Registration Below. Please read BEFORE signing up! Thank you!

INTRODUCTION

We are so glad you are registering to volunteer in this urgent and large-scale process. Thousands of our Afghan clients need to apply for asylum to access a pathway to lawful permanent residence and eventual citizenship. These pro se asylum workshops provide applicants with the tools and information to apply for asylum on their own behalf. 

This process needs YOU as a volunteer! You will assist the applicant with entering their information into the online asylum application and writing down the applicant’s life story in a declaration, serving in the essential roles of scribe, document organizer, and compassionate listener.

This legal process is highly technical and at times slow and unglamorous–we will be the first to tell you; however, with the support of 50 generous volunteers each day and the guidance of two immigration attorneys, this month 200 newly arrived Afghans will take each step necessary to complete their asylum applications. With your patience and empathy, you will serve a critical role in helping our newcomers seek long-term safety and a new life for their families in the United States.

REQUIREMENTS

Volunteer Requirements:

• MUST be able to commit to the full workshop day/hours
• MUST bring laptop & charger (USB ports for a thumb drive are needed)
• Writing, typing, and basic computer skills are required
• Watch Training Video and read through Volunteer Resources (linked below)
• Sign a Confidentiality Agreement when checking in on workshop day

No foreign language experience is required. While each Workshop is geared towards a different language for Participants, Volunteers will have relevant translators available. If you do speak Dari or Pashto, registering for the relevant Workshop would be an added bonus. 

Ideally, but not required, Volunteers can be present for Parts 1 and 2 of a workshop to continue the work with the same Participant through completion.

Optional: We will host one short introductory Zoom call to help provide additional context for the Workshop model. Anyone can register for the optional call below. 

Volunteer Orientation:

• View Volunteer Orientation Materials here

All volunteers are asked to read through the orientation materials above and view the accompanying training video. Use the Q&A Question Form & Q&A Answer Sheet as needed. 

Covid Protocols:

We are aware of the latest CDC guidelines and recommendations in the area. We also understand everyone's level of comfort varies. Therefore, we require everyone to wear masks indoors to reduce the spread of COVID. LSSNCA will be providing extra masks, hand sanitizers, and reminders to wear masks throughout the clinics. We appreciate you participating in this large community event.

Location: Fairfax Church 11451 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (link)