BUILDING BRIDGES TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE
About Us
Matthew House AZ began with a simple vision: to build a bridge for arriving refugees. Since 2021, we have been dedicated to providing housing, education, and support services to help families build new lives in the East Valley. Our journey has been filled with inspiring stories of resilience and hope, as we work together to build and create opportunities for a brighter future.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES, TRANSFORMING LIVES
Our Mission and Vision
Mission
We exist to build bridges between refugee and immigrant families and their new communities. Matthew House builds bridges via housing subsidies, language and tutoring programs, cultural mentorship and employment coaching that create opportunities for families to fully engage and contribute to their new homes.
Vision
Building Bridges. Creating Opportunities.
SUPPORT OUR MISSION
Make a Difference Today
Your support can change lives.
THE HEART BEHIND OUR MISSION
Meet Our Team
Leisa is a bridge-builder and has a passion for helping forcibly displaced families find community, support, and friendship as they work to make Arizona their home. Her years in leadership training, management, and ministry have culminated in founding a place that equips, empowers, and cares for others. She is a wife to an amazing husband and mother to two talented young adult daughters. Outside of her job, she loves to travel and explore the world!
Amy has always been drawn to people and had a passion for learning other languages. Over the past two decades, she has met new friends who have opened her eyes to the realities and difficulties of immigrant and refugee families, and the gaps that exist in our current systems. She hopes with the knowledge she’s gained from these friends, she and Matthew House can help to be a bridge builder to others on this journey here in Arizona. She loves doing life with her husband and three kiddos and can often be found cheering loudly at their soccer games and races.
Scott has over 25 years of executive leadership experience driving success in organizations such as Garten, CEB/Gartner, FedEx, and Oakwood Worldwide. In addition to his current role as Chief Revenue Officer at Garten, he coaches, develops, and influences executive leaders through his organization, Building Healthy Teams. He has experience serving several non-profit boards in the past decade, including one of the largest NGOs in the Middle East serving displaced and marginalized refugee populations. Scott has a communications degree from Indiana University and currently serves with his spouse and two daughters in Chandler, AZ.
Crystal is a workers’ compensation attorney in the Phoenix Valley. Her experience in this industry has equipped her with a practical way to advocate for those who are injured in the workplace. She enjoys empowering and serving those who are underserved in our community, and anytime she has a chance to help someone, she does! Her heart for others and her passion for serving drives her work ethic, whether she is at work or serving outside of work.
Matt has a heart to be a blessing to international communities, both here in Arizona and abroad. Matt spent 19 years in the healthcare field, in hospital settings in Arizona and in the Middle East, where he and his family served Bedouin communities in Jordan. He also has served as the Director of Global Outreach at a large church in the Phoenix area, raising up people to serve international students, refugee populations, and to be a blessing upon Native American lands in Arizona. Matt currently serves on the Director Team for Frontiers USA.
Outside of work, Matt enjoys hiking trails all across the Southwest and is a big fan of college basketball — particularly the University of Arizona Wildcats!
EMPOWERING THROUGH SUPPORT
Our Programs
Tutoring Program
Our tutoring program provides personalized, one-on-one support for refugee children, helping them build strong foundations in math and English. Our tutors work closely with students to assist with homework & address their unique learning needs, ensuring they gain the skills and confidence necessary for academic success. This program not only improves educational outcomes but also fosters a positive attitude towards learning.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL SCHEDULE
Adult Language Learning
Our adult language learning program offers leveled curriculum designed to help refugee and immigrant adults develop essential communication skills. Classes focus on both written and spoken English, with an emphasis on practical language use for everyday situations, employment, and community interaction. By enhancing their language abilities, participants are better equipped to achieve personal and professional goals.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL SCHEDULE
Welcome Teams
Welcome Teams are groups of dedicated volunteers who befriend and mentor newly arrived refugee families as they acclimate to life in the U.S. These teams assist with navigating local systems, building English skills, understanding cultural norms, and accessing essential services. By providing friendship and practical support, Welcome Teams play a crucial role in helping families transition smoothly and feel welcomed in their new community.
Housing Solutions
Our housing program helps refugee and immigrant families gain access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. In the East Valley, we provide subsidies to help families stabilize on their path to being fully self-sufficient. Beyond just housing, we offer guidance on managing finances, understanding rental agreements, and maintaining their homes, which helps families build a secure foundation for their future.
In 2023
180
Green Card
Applicants
9
Families Achieving
Self-Sufficiency
75
Students in
English & K-12 tutoring
20
Active
Welcome Teams
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Matthew House AZ help?
We serve refugee and immigrant families in the East Valley of Arizona, providing support through housing, education, and community integration.
How can I get involved?
There are many ways to support our mission, including volunteering, donating, and becoming a community partner. Visit our Get Involved page for more information.
Can I refer a family in need?
Yes, please contact us if you know a family who could benefit from our services. We are here to help.
How can I donate?
Donations can be made online through this link. Your support helps us provide essential services to families in need.
