Communities as the heart of welcome

The Sponsor Circle Program is a community-led initiative that supports everyday Americans in taking on the responsibility of welcoming newcomers to their communities.

The responsibility of welcoming is both serious and rewarding. You will take on tasks like finding initial housing, stocking the pantry, connecting children to school, providing initial income support, and helping adults to find employment. It can bring you and your neighbors closer together and provide a newcomer the opportunity to begin again.

As a sponsor circle, you will have access to application support, temporary housing credits offered through Airbnb.org, a growing suite of sponsor tools, and ongoing guidance offered by welcoming experts.

Since the launch of the program, more than 4,500 people have contributed to sponsor circles across the country. Join the movement!

How it works

  • 1. Communities Circle Up

    Bring together at least five adults in your neighborhood to form a sponsor circle. Complete background checks, fundraise, and prepare to submit your group’s application.

  • 2. Members Make a Plan

    Check your knowledge of what is needed to serve as a sponsor circle and prepare a Welcome Plan in advance of welcoming a newcomer. Support in completing your Welcome Plan is available!

  • 3. Circles Welcome Newcomers

    Sponsor circles will welcome the newcomer directly into the community and provide tailored support through the initial integration process.

Our Partners

The Sponsor Circle Program is a joint initiative of a growing coalition of partner organizations.