🌏✨ Building Bridges: Volunteer Training with Prism and the American Russian Center
This summer, the American Russian Center proudly launched a partnership with Prism, a Twin Cities nonprofit that provides dignity-centered support — including food, clothing, housing assistance, and children’s programs — to help neighbors in need build stable, healthy lives. Together, we are developing and leading a series of volunteer training workshops to help Prism’s volunteers better understand and connect with the Russian-speaking community in Minnesota.
On July 10, we hosted the first workshop at Prism. The session introduced volunteers to the rich diversity of Russian-speaking cultures, shared important cultural dos and don’ts, and highlighted local resources and traditions important to Russian-speaking neighbors. Volunteers participated in interactive activities, thoughtful discussions, and even some light-hearted games — all designed to foster cultural understanding and inclusion.
A key contributor to this project is Anna Moan, a Macalester College student completing a summer internship with the American Russian Center. Anna was instrumental in developing workshop materials, designing engaging activities, and helping deliver the session. Her creativity and dedication made the training meaningful and memorable. We are proud to support young leaders like Anna as they make a tangible impact on the community.
Prism shared their feedback:
“Huge thanks to the American Russian Center for leading such a thoughtful, engaging, and fun volunteer training session! We loved diving into the rich diversity of the Russian-speaking world and gaining new insights into the cultures that shape many of the neighbors we serve. From interactive games to meaningful conversation, it was a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural understanding in community work.”
This workshop is just the first of many. We are excited to continue this partnership with Prism, offering more opportunities for volunteers to gain the knowledge and skills they need to serve every member of our diverse community with respect and care.
👏 Stay tuned as we continue to build bridges and foster understanding — one workshop at a time.
