Spero’s purpose is to specifically serve the refugee community. We are committed to welcoming new neighbors by connecting them with the relationships, resources and learning opportunities that make Oklahoma City a place of belonging. 


Our first and most important work is to create the most welcoming city to newly arriving refugees. We work to ensure every new neighbor is known and feels connected to the larger Oklahoma City community. It is our great joy to get to know new friends and share in hospitality together. In addition, we offer resources and learning opportunities that help in practical transition to Oklahoma. Our four focus areas of support are:

Supporting students:

    • Hosting a daily after school program for elementary school-age kids

    • Offering personalized mentoring and support for post-Elementary students

    • Leading a summer program focusing on language acquisition and academic skills

    • Serving as a liaison between schools and the refugee community, offering translation, transportation, and working towards solutions for any challenge that keeps parents from being involved in their child’s education as possible

Resourcing adults: 

    • Meeting in easily accessible locations to provide free weekly classes and support for English, citizenship, and driving

    • Coordinating one-on-one tutoring to provide tailored instruction and support

    • Providing trauma-informed therapy services in an environment that honors culture of origin and ensures language is not a barrier to care

    • Engaging our networks to resource neighbors with connections that will be helpful in navigating life in OKC 

Partnering with refugee community leaders:

    • Resourcing leaders for community-wide events 

    • Connecting leaders to relational networks that support their goals for their community

    • Amplifying voices and offering platforms whenever possible for leaders to share their unique experiences, perspectives, and dreams

Educating our city on issues affecting refugees:

    • Leading workshops, training sessions, and seminars that share accurate information on forced displacement and refugee resettlement

    • Hosting Interactive experiences that create personal understanding of the refugee journey