Step into the journey of refugees navigating perilous paths to safety in Thrive International’s IRL Refugee Immersion Experience. From Eastern Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia, this immersive experience is built on real stories of refugees interviewed by Thrive—many of whom have participated in Thrive’s programs or lived at Thrive Center Spokane.
Feel the weight of life-altering decisions. Struggle to communicate in a foreign language while preparing for an immigration interview. Confront the uncertainties and challenges of displacement, where every choice can mean survival or setback. Participants will face moral dilemmas, learn survival phrases, and experience firsthand the complexity, resilience, and strength of the refugee journey.
Developed in collaboration with Eastern Washington University, this immersive experience is designed for upper-level high school students, university classes, faculty, businesses, faith communities, and civic organizations. It fosters empathy, deepens understanding, and inspires meaningful action to support refugees in Spokane and beyond.
Interested and want to learn more?
Thrive's IRL Refugee Immersion Experience: an interactive, hands-on educational initiative is designed to deepen awareness, foster empathy, and inspire action for refugees and asylum seekers. This three-step approach—Educate, Experience, and Engage—equips you with essential context, immerses you in real-world scenarios, and challenges you to navigate the complexities of displacement, resilience, and hope.
IRL Refugee Immersion Experience Preview Event (1-1.5 hr)
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Gain insight into Ukraine and step into a refugee’s shoes as you journey through a powerful experiential learning activity, followed by the real-life outcome of their story. Discover how this approach weaves together a Facilitator Presentation and Resource Guide (Educate), an interactive refugee journey experience (Experience), and a call to action within our community (Engage) to foster deeper understanding and meaningful impact.
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If you are an administrator, faculty member, community or faith leader, we invite you to explore this transformative learning experience and discover how it can be integrated into your institution to foster meaningful dialogue and action.
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For inquiries or to schedule a presentation, please contact Pamela Thuswaldner at pamela@thriveinternational.org.
IRL PROGRAMS
IRL PROGRAMS
Program 1
Facilitator Presentation + IRL Refugee Immersion Experience (two separate sessions)
Program 2
IRL Refugee Immersion Experience Retreat (3 hour)
Join us for Thrive International’s IRL Refugee Immersion Experience—an opportunity to connect, learn, and gain a deeper understanding of the refugee journey.
Secure your spot now by filling out this form:
