Pay It Forward: Hser-Ner-Moo Community Center

They have survived horrible conditions in their homelands to reach the safety of Salt Lake City. But now they face the challenges of a new culture. That's when our Pay It Forward program comes in.

Westminster College and the Hser Ner Moo Community Center are teaming up to mentor refugees adopting to life in America.

...30:30 "these kids want to succeed. they really do. they try really hard... things are against them."

so here at the su na moo cultural center....they take part in tutoring sessions, social programs,  and sometimes a helping hand from some very special mentors like Westminster College student Sarah Schafer.

32:45 "it's been fantastic. I love working with my kids. I’ve bonded really close with them." 33:06
"We do things... we took them to a bowling alley. We had a benefit dinner, so they could have the  experience, eating a nice dinner. Because that hasn't happened before."

Professor Peter Ingle over sees the program. 38:45 "they're able to kind of bond with the tutors in a way that gives them a chance to learn a lot more about the culture." 38:52 "sort of get a sense of what expectations they may want to have for themselves, and the possibilities in the American culture for them."

They are learning more than language, math and computer skills....they are learning about friendship...and love.....just ask hser nay pa! 27:54

"She help me to do homework. and sometimes she help me to read. Is she like a big sister? Yeah." 33:15 "do you get kind of close to these guys?" 33:17 "ooohh. Yeah. I’m kind of like a momma bear."

but when you're a college student....it's hard to plan social outings for so many kids....on a limited budget. We think this mentoring program is a perfect candidate for our pay it forward segment. Time to bring in mountain America credit union. 48:46 "we want to pay it forward. We have $500 for you. Wow! To help pay it forward. And the great work you're doing." !!!! 43:58 "... we appreciate what you're doing as a community leader for us. Well thank you very much. Appreciate that. "

So today....one more life lesson for our refugees. The lesson of giving back....to those who give to you. The kids at the cultural center could always use more help... they need volunteers, tutors, and donations... this could be a great youth group project. if you can help, you can reach the center on facebook. We’ll put a direct link to their page on our website... just go to "kutv com"... and click on "pay it forward".