Written by: Jared Benoit
The instinct for self-preservation is deeply ingrained in all of us. We naturally seek safety and security in a world that can sometimes feel uncertain. But for refugees, this instinct takes on a whole new meaning. They have endured unimaginable hardships—persecution, oppression, and displacement—and have been forced to leave behind everything they’ve ever known in pursuit of safety, security, and hope for a better future. My prayer is that you never have to experience what they have, but that you will open your heart to understand and walk alongside them in their journey.
Through Global Outreach Developments International’s Language-in-Action Program, I have had the immense privilege of working with refugees—teaching them English and helping them navigate the overwhelming challenges of starting anew in an unfamiliar land. It’s my favorite thing to do. These individuals arrive with hopes of building a better future but often face insurmountable barriers, with the most significant being language. Many of them were doctors, lawyers, and accountants in their home countries, yet they find themselves stripped of these titles simply because they lack fluency in English. Ironically, many of them already speak multiple languages—some four to nine fluently. It is not a lack of ability that holds them back; it is a lack of opportunity and access.
I will never forget when I first began this journey six years ago. I met my dear friend, Manasse, in his humble living room. He would greet me with his favorite phrase, “No language”—his way of saying, “Only speak English.” Manasse, a teacher from the Congo, was an educator at heart, and his dedication was contagious. Even after long, overnight shifts in factories, he would wake his friends to come learn. They weren’t lazy; they were simply sacrificing precious rest to gain something they knew would change their lives. Their commitment continues to inspire me.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing incredible transformations. Refugees who once struggled with confusion and isolation have moved into positions of leadership. They’ve enrolled in college, paid their own tuition, and re-established their careers in fields they once thrived in. Their resilience and determination are indescribable.
In addition to my work with Global Outreach Developments International, I also serve as a real estate broker, leading a team of agents who share my passion for serving refugees and immigrants. Together, we have helped more than 40 refugee families achieve homeownership. For many, this is about more than just purchasing a house; it’s the key to generational wealth—a concept that is often taken for granted in the U.S. Imagine arriving in a foreign country with no knowledge of the language, yet, just a few years later, you’re navigating one of the most complex financial transactions. It requires patience, perseverance, and trust. The gratitude from these families is beyond words, and seeing their success is one of the most rewarding aspects of this work.
Beyond language lessons and real estate transactions, I’ve had the privilege of being welcomed into countless refugee homes, sharing meals with families who embrace me as one of their own. Their generosity and hospitality are unparalleled. In a culture that often prioritizes individualism, experiencing their selfless service is a humbling reminder of what true community looks like.
One of my most cherished experiences was attending a Congolese wedding. We arrived late, but still stayed for four hours—yet the celebration was just beginning. The ceremony was a beautiful blend of traditions: bartering between the fathers, heartfelt testimonies, choreographed dances, and an overwhelming outpouring of love and joy. The sense of community was remarkable. The food was incredible, the service was unwavering, and the warmth was unforgettable. It was a reminder of what a true community looks like.
I’ve traveled to countries where I didn’t speak the language, and even as a visitor, the discomfort was palpable. Without the ability to communicate, even the simplest tasks become daunting. Now, imagine this experience not as a temporary inconvenience but as your daily reality. Refugees face exploitation at every turn—landlords withholding deposits under false pretenses, car dealers locking them into predatory loans, and employers undervaluing their skills and experience. The injustices are countless. But in this reality lies an opportunity—a call to serve, to advocate, and to uplift.
Through the Language in Action Program, we do more than teach English. We empower. We equip refugees with the skills they need to navigate life here, protect themselves from exploitation, and embrace the opportunities many take for granted. This work has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I am beyond grateful to call these remarkable individuals my friends and family. Their perseverance and faith remind me daily of God's goodness and the fulfillment of His promises.
“He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.” – Deuteronomy 10:18-19
“When an alien resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the alien. The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.” – Leviticus 19:33-34