REF was founded by refugees for refugees to provide effective solutions to the critical needs faced by the community. We firmly uphold the principle that "nothing about us, without us," which informs our operations at every level within the organization. This commitment is foundational in our community-led approach. We also value equity and diversity; 100% of our team identify as people of color, over 80% of our team identifies as women, and 40% have lived/living experiences of forced displacement. This diverse representation enriches our understanding and enhances our ability to serve the community effectively.

As a community-led organization, we have intentionally distanced ourselves from the conventional bureaucracy that are often seen in many institutions and their leadership structures. REF operates under a model of collective leadership that involves the active participation of all committee and staff members. Decisions are collaboratively discussed and reached through a participatory approach that ensures every voice is heard and valued. We are dedicated to maintaining this inclusive methodology, as we have witnessed the positive impact it has had on our organization and its personnel. This commitment not only enhances our organizational culture but also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among our team members.

We strongly value partnerships and collective work, as opposed to operating in silo. Throughout the years, we have collaborated with numerous organizations, activists, and community leaders to ensure that our resources are used in the most effective manner possible. The voice of the community is instrumental in guiding and informing our initiatives; therefore, we actively engage with community members and their leaders to ensure that our services are closely aligned with their goals and needs. Our partnership approach is anchored in the practical work we do through strategic and meaningful engagement, fostering collaboration that truly benefits the communities we serve.