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About Us
About Us
Mission & Philosophy
Tusome Pamoja is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting English language learners through individualized, relationship-centered literacy instruction. Grounded in fellowship and community, Tusome brings together students, teen peer mentors, adult volunteers, educators, and community partners to create a welcoming, screen-free learning environment where students can grow academically and personally.
Tusome Pamoja’s mission is to match English language learners with trained teen peer mentors and adult volunteers to provide individualized, literacy-focused instruction in a safe, supportive, and relationship-driven environment.
Our Story
Tusome Pamoja began in 2020 as the education ministry at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Richmond, Virginia.
As refugee families—many from East African countries—were resettled in the community, it became clear that many students arrived with limited or interrupted access to formal education.
When schools shifted to virtual learning, these students faced additional barriers that made academic success especially challenging.
In response, the St. Elizabeth community matched newly resettled refugee students with adult volunteers for online support.
Volunteers helped students navigate digital classrooms, complete homework, and build English language skills.
During this period, Tusome collaborated with local organizations including ReEstablish Richmond, Catholic Relief Services, and the International Rescue Committee.
What began as emergency support evolved into a structured, in-person program centered on literacy, mentorship, and community.
In 2023, Tusome Pamoja became a registered nonprofit organization, continuing and expanding this mission with intention, care, and accountability.
Leadership
Liz, Sid, and Kenya - Tusome Leadership
Tusome Pamoja is led by Liz Wiznerowicz, Director and founding member.
Liz has a lifelong passion for education and youth engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and previously worked in physiology laboratories within hospital systems in Arizona and Virginia.
Since 2005, she has been a homeschool educator and private teacher, working with her own children as well as other students.
Liz is currently employed as the Director of Religious Education for St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, and as an Equitable Services Title I Tutor for Henrico County Public Schools and Richmond City Public Schools.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Liz began working privately with refugee students, an experience that helped shape the vision and structure of Tusome Pamoja.
Her leadership blends practical experience, adaptability, and a deep belief in the power of relationships to support learning.
Partners & Supporters
Tusome Pamoja collaborates with educators, community organizations, and funding partners who support the program’s mission and instructional quality.
Educational & Community Partners
All Saints Catholic School
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School
Local public schools, including Henrico County’s ESL program
Funding & Grant Support
Tusome Pamoja is supported through a combination of grants and individual gifts.
Catholic social service organizations
The Fricano Foundation (Arlington, Virginia)
Catholic Relief Services
Episcopal Church Women
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond (Migrant Ministries)
Generous private donors
This diversified support allows Tusome Pamoja to grow responsibly while remaining mission-focused.
Our Accomplishments
I.E. Recognition, awards, number of children and families served, etc.
A Day in the Life of Our Residents
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You Can Change a Life Today
Your support helps us provide safe housing, personalized care, and meaningful experiences for boys with developmental disabilities and trauma. Every donation brings comfort, joy, and a step closer to healing. Together, we can give each child a brighter, more hopeful future.
Richmond, Virginia
10721 Warren Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060
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