A young girl in a patterned dress and shawl sitting on a metal barrel, holding a stick, with a piece of cloth over her head, in a dusty outdoor setting with tents and people in the background.

Empowering Communities Through Dedicated Service

Crowd of people protesting in an urban street, holding blank signs and raising fists during a demonstration at sunset.

About Our Organization

The Refugee Empowerment Foundation (REF) is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to uplifting refugee communities through direct support, youth advocacy, and community-driven programs. We believe that every refugee deserves not just safety, but dignity, opportunity, and a genuine pathway to belonging.

Founded by young people who understand that systemic change begins at the grassroots level, REF bridges the gap between refugee families and the resources they need to thrive — from immediate direct support services to long-term empowerment initiatives that invest in the next generation of leaders.

Our work is rooted in a simple conviction: that the most powerful advocates for refugee communities are the people who live within them. That’s why everything we do centers the voices, strengths, and futures of the individuals we serve.