The losses associated with exile often leave refugees with limited resources to face the challenge of adjusting to a new society. To enhance the successful integration of refugees, it is important to assist them in their efforts in rebuilding and extending their support systems. By matching refugees with volunteers, Befriending Programs aim at creating a supportive environment. Based on information provided by twenty-five organizations that offer befriending programs in Australia, Canada, England, and the United States, this paper explores obstacles they face in the recruitment and retention of befrienders as well as their strategies in overcoming challenges. © 2007 The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.

Integration Support systems Volunteers Refugees Befriending program

United Kingdom England Canada Eurasia Western Europe refugee Australia Europe Australasia asylum seeker voluntary approach North America United States