Happy Dog Takes On Empowering Our Refugees

In the United States, more than 60,000 refugees arrived in 2023, outpacing the prior two years. In January of this year, the greatest number admitted were arriving from nations like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, and Afghanistan--a reflection of increasing global conflict and war.

Resettlement for newcomers and their families is a daunting task as they start their new lives with limited resources, and away from the lives they once knew. Yet, according to Re:Source Cleveland (formerly known as Refugee Response), resettled refugees are expected to acculturate, acquire English language skills, and become self-sufficient within three months of arriving.

Just in February, Cuyahoga County opened its new Welcome Center in Cleveland's Old Brooklyn neighborhood. A beginning step in their Newcomer Navigator Program. The facility will serve as a multi-service center, providing access to workforce training, educational services, healthcare, legal support, housing, language services, and more. With a goal to become a "Certified Welcoming" community, how can Cleveland empower the region’s growing newcomer population?

Join the City Club as we hear from Re:Source Cleveland, as well as newcomers themselves, on what is needed to support all refugees as they become engaged members of their new communities.

Let us know if you're coming! Please RSVP by registering below. It's not required, but it helps us prepare and keeps you updated!

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The livestream will be available beginning at 7:30p.m. Have questions? Tweet them at @TheCityClub or send a text to 330.541.5794.