Refugee Assistance Programs (RAP) is an independent non-profit dedicated to aiding refugees in the resettlement process in the Chicagoland area including Aurora, Rogers Park, GLen Ellyn, Wheaton, West Chicago and Glendale Heights, Illinois. From monetary assistance towards rent and car repairs to mentorship, RAP works with refugees and donors of all faiths. Based on the principal of wings not crutches, it also helps pay for driving lessons and tuition. It works with refugee leaders on the grassroots level, with their input being held as vital in shaping programming.

Refugee Assistance Programs began as a grassroots effort in 2004 and was registered as a non-profit in IL in 2010. Over the years, RAP has collaborated with several organizations to build bridges towards bringing self-sufficiency to the refugee community. These include Iraqi Mutual Aid Society (IMAS), Refugee Center for Hope (REACH), Community Outreach and School District 41, Refugee and Immigrant Service Providers Network, Mohd. Webb Foundation, Glen Ellyn Children's Resource Center, ICNA Relief, Islamic Foundation Villa Park, Muslim Society Inc., Muslim Women's Alliance, Helping Hands/ Love Christian Clearing House and OWL.

Besides keeping several refugee families from being evicted, RAP has raised more than 1,300 toys during its Eid Drive, has delivered over 200 kitchen kits and has provided support to empower refugees 365 days of the year.  In 2009, it was recognized with the CIOGC "Excellence in Community Service Award."

Refugee Assistance Programs was founded by Director Naazish YarKhan, winner of the 2009 MWA Inspiring Woman Award, and its Board of Directors include Kiran Ansari, Aliya Husain, T.Aalia Ahmed, Thamreen Siddiqui and Sabina Abdul-Qadir. To volunteer, email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Donations can be mailed to Refugee Assistance Programs/ WF, 1146 Coventry Circle, Glendale Heights, IL 60139. Please indicate whether it's a general donation or zakat.