Because of COVID-19, we have had to suspend our 2020 on-the-ground programs on Lesvos.  As a result, we are not recruiting new volunteers at this time. Once it is safe to travel to Lesvos, we will continue our lessons in person.  
However, we continue to expand our online tutoring program for refugees in Lesvos.

Virtual Learning Program


In response to the COVID19 pandemic lockdown, we developed an online learning program over the summer. We have now partnered with Starfish Foundation in Lesvos to offer our new Virtual Learning Program.
The refugees have left countries and families they knew and loved. Going to school, being active learners, and engaging with their teachers and other learners are a real means of survival and hope for them.
Using Zoom, we are teaching English to refugee adults and youth currently living in Mytilini or in the new temporary camp.
We are using Starfish’s OpenSpace venue for these Zoom sessions that are taught by previous REAL Volunteers from the U.S. and abroad. This program is created and led by REAL Board member Anne Wilson-Siembieda, our education director.  
There is great demand for learning from refugees still living in Lesvos awaiting asylum.

In-Person Teaching Program

 Once it is safe to travel to Lesvos, we hope to continue our lessons in person and start recruiting again.
The main role for volunteers in the Teaching Program is to teach English to various refugee populations on the island and to teach it in a fun, relaxed, and compassionate manner.
Other subjects taught are math, science, art, music, and special workshops. 
All subjects are taught in English and are a vehicle for learning English. We have an on-site volunteer coordinator who helps volunteers prepare lessons and materials. 
We invite you to teach English and/or a workshop if you have a specialty.
Previous volunteers have taught yoga, sewing, painting, and knitting.
In the teaching program, our ways of working are diverse: tutoring one on one, teaching small groups, co-teaching a class with another volunteer, or teaching a class independently.  We work with unaccompanied minors, groups of women, adults, and families who are awaiting asylum.