Alysa Marx - Executive Director

As Executive Director and Founder of Refugee Resources, Alysa Marx brings more than 20 years of experience serving the refugee community in Dallas. Her leadership is rooted in a deep commitment to educational equity, cultural understanding, and the transformative power of the Gospel.

Alysa's vision for The Reading Circle and Preschool Circle grew out of years of firsthand work with refugee families—volunteering across resettlement, education, and social services. These experiences shaped her conviction that literacy is a key to academic success and a doorway to hope, dignity, and long-term opportunity.

Under her guidance, The Reading Circle and Preschool Circle has grown into a trusted, gospel-centered mentoring and literacy program that meets students where they are—academically, spiritually, and culturally. Alysa continues to lead with compassion, purpose, and a firm belief in every child's potential.

Julie Bovenkamp - Preschool Circle Coordinator

Julie has a long-standing passion for serving children and families, especially within the refugee community. She has volunteered in various capacities for many years and has faithfully served in Awana, a Bible-based program focused on Scripture memory and discipleship, for decades.

Julie brings a strong understanding of early childhood development and a gentle, nurturing presence that makes young children feel seen and loved. After volunteering with the Preschool Circle for a year, it became clear she had a unique gift for working with preschoolers. Shortly thereafter, she joined the staff as the Preschool Circle Coordinator.

Julie's heart for children extends beyond the classroom. As a mother of six—two of whom were welcomed into her family through foster care and adoption—she embodies a deep commitment to compassion, care, and Christ-centered service. She continues to invest in the lives of our youngest learners, laying a foundation of love, literacy, and faith.

Emily Thompson - Administrative Assistant & Social Media Coordinator, Volunteer Training & Literacy Support Coordinator

Emily is a former classroom teacher with a strong background in curriculum design and instructional methods. Her passion for literacy and education is matched by her commitment to equipping volunteers to serve with excellence and confidence.

In her role, Emily helps train and support mentors—ensuring they are well-prepared to guide students in reading development and academic growth. Her teaching experience includes work in Title I schools, where she supported students from diverse and often challenging backgrounds, including those who have experienced trauma or are part of the ESL community.

Emily brings both expertise and empathy to her work, helping create an environment where volunteers feel empowered and students feel seen, supported, and capable of success.

As Social Media Coordinator, Emily helps bring the mission of our organization to life online. Through thoughtful storytelling and creative media, they highlight the values that define our work—sharing the love of Jesus, the power of literacy, and the impact of one-on-one mentorship.

From Instagram and Facebook to newsletters and digital campaigns, Emily curates content that builds awareness, inspires engagement, and invites action. Whether it's capturing a moment in the classroom or sharing a student's success story, her work helps connect hearts to our mission and turn followers into faithful partners and donors.

With a passion for meaningful communication and a heart for ministry, Emily plays a key role in helping others see, support, and join God's life-changing work through our programs.

Kendra Smith - Volunteer Support & Spiritual Care Coordinator

Kendra is a trained therapist with a master's degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. She brings both clinical insight and spiritual sensitivity to her role, supporting students, volunteers, and staff with grace and wisdom.

In addition to assisting with administrative tasks and volunteer training, Kendra plays a vital role in shaping our Bible study curriculum—ensuring it communicates the truth of the Gospel in a way that is thoughtful and respectful of each student's cultural and religious background.

Kendra began her journey with The Reading Circle as a volunteer, gaining firsthand experience of the needs, strengths, and stories of the students we serve. Her work continues to reflect her heart for relational ministry, emotional care, and Christ-centered transformation.