Immigrant & Refugee Women's Program

Our mission is to increase the independence and reduce the isolation of immigrant and refugee women by teaching them basic English and practical living skills in the security of their own homes.

Since 1995, Immigrant & Refugee Women's Program (IRWP) has helped women arriving in St. Louis, MO, from foreign countries to make a new life in the United States. Founded by Sr. Elise Silvestri, SSND, IRWP began with six Vietnamese women students. IRWP was part of the Notre Dame Ministry Corporation from 1999 until 2006. In 2006, IRWP received its own 501(c)3 status.

The program has grown significantly and in 2017, 350 students were taught over 13,208 hours. This wouldn't have been possible without the time and dedication of our amazing 365 volunteers! Our goals for 2018 are even bigger and we need your help. Over 300 people in need of our services were referred to our program in 2017. We are in need of more wonderful volunteers that can commit to teaching English two times a week for one hour per class. Volunteers don't need to have prior teaching experience or speak another language. IRWP provides training, materials and ongoing support. Please call today if you are interested in building a special relationship with someone in your community!