As volunteers for DASH in any capacity, it’s important to understand our program, services, mission, philosophy, and vision. Most of this information can be found throughout our website, but we have condensed it to one page for easy access.
Our Approach
Motivation:
In Luke Chapter 4, Jesus reached the Synagogue in Nazareth to read the scroll of the prophet Isaiah that He has come to fulfill:
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
We are motivated by Jesus’ example to love and serve the poor and persecuted. The Spirit of God has stirred something in us, calling us to serve asylum seekers in a way that both proclaims the good news of Christ and offers a glimpse of His servant heart to the community. This is our motivation.
Mission:
In response to the compassionate and welcoming love of Jesus, DASH Network exists to love asylum seekers by serving their physical and relational needs.
Method:
How do we show the love of Christ?
First, by serving our resident’s physical needs: housing, food, and toiletries.
Second, by creating spaces where volunteers and residents can address relational needs: relationship to others, to self, to the world, and to God.
This love-focused, two-handed approach is our philosophy and methodology.
Note on reciprocity:
At DASH, we believe that relationships are the foundation of transformation—and they go both ways. As a volunteer, you’re not just giving your time and support; you’re entering into a mutual relationship built on dignity, respect, and shared humanity.
Though our residents are temporarily unable to work due to legal restrictions, they bring incredible value to the DASH community through their cultures, wisdom, resilience, and lived experience. We don’t view ourselves as providers to them—but as partners walking alongside them.
Many volunteers find that being in relationship with residents not only expands their worldview but also deepens their connection to others, to themselves, and to God. You’re joining a beautiful and diverse community—and we’re so grateful to have you on the journey with us.
Our Services
Housing:
DASH Network houses residents in an apartment building near downtown Fort Worth. This location provides our residents with access to the bus route, parks, libraries, and Fort Worth public schools.
Food:
Residents receive most of their food from local food banks and churches, with items either picked up by residents or delivered weekly by volunteers and staff. However, due to a recent food shortage, DASH now provides a small monthly food stipend to help families and individuals purchase pantry staples and fresh produce that are otherwise unavailable.
Friendship:
Relationships are at the heart of DASH. Each resident is paired with one or two trained Advocates who meet with them regularly for connection, encouragement, and mutual friendship. Community continues to grow through monthly gatherings, Sunday Suppers, ESL classes, and other shared experiences that foster belonging and dignity.
Equipping:
Every DASH resident is paired with a Case Manager who helps connect them to essential services, including healthcare, mental health support, and transportation.
We partner with CST (Counseling Services for Trauma) to offer trauma-informed counseling for residents who want it. Additionally, our Thrive Academy helps residents build a strong foundation for life after DASH with personalized success plans focused on job readiness, English acquisition, wellness, and independence.
Legal:
Navigating the U.S. asylum system is complicated and costly. In a brand-new initiative created in response to the changing political climate, DASH now helps residents with affirmative asylum claims secure discounted legal representation. DASH pays half of an attorney’s retainer fee, while the resident pays the remainder through a payment plan once they begin working. This new initiative ensures residents have expert legal support, which is increasingly critical under shifting immigration policies.
Our Vision
DASH Network exists to glorify God by providing care for one of the most vulnerable populations in our community – those seeking asylum.