Integration and Empowerment: Facilitating the Integration of Refugees and Immigrants

Our goal is to support refugee and immigrant families as they integrate smoothly into the community through essential services and educational opportunities. We encourage active participation and contributions to Nebraskan society, empowering individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency and become valued community members.

• Social Services:
  • Assistance with Documentation: Support in reading and understanding documents, such as utility bills, insurance forms, appointment letters, court documents, and medical forms.
  • Appointment Management: Assistance with scheduling, rescheduling, and providing transportation for appointments, including those related to healthcare, education, social services, and employment.
  • Immigration Support: Guidance on immigration processes, including applications for Green Cards, citizenship, travel documents, and family petitions.
  • Employment Assistance: Help with job searches, applications, resume creation, interview preparation, wellness checks, and orientations.
• Education and Development:
  • After-School Program: Academic support for refugee students to foster success and integration into the school system, including homework assistance and understanding the educational system. This program provides a space for youth to grow, be creative, and feel empowered.
  • Computer Literacy: Training in essential computer skills to improve digital literacy, helping families navigate online applications and services essential in American society.
  • Citizenship Class: Providing resources, such as the Civics Test 2020 video and booklet, in both Karen and English.

Cultural Preservation: Celebrating and Sharing Cultural Heritage

We strive to strengthen both refugee communities and the broader society by celebrating diversity, fostering mutual understanding, and preserving cultural heritage. Our aim is to build connections, foster friendships, and create a welcoming, inclusive environment for all.

• Support for Cultural Heritage Preservation:
  • Presentations: Sharing cultural information about refugees from Burma, covering traditional lifestyle, education, and healthcare.
  • Booth Displays: Showcasing cultural artifacts and informational materials at community events.
  • Fashion Shows: Displaying traditional clothing that tells the story of heritage.
  • Cultural Dancing: Performing at local festivals and events to celebrate heritage.
  • Community Events: Organizing events like Welcome Week, New Year celebrations, Karen National Martyrs’ Day, AAPI celebrations, and more.
• Classes:
  • Weaving Class: Teaching traditional Karen clothing creation using a Karen loom.
  • Karen Language Learning: Offering levels from Grade 1 to Grade 3 and resources for Karen language typing.
  • Bedtime Storytelling: Storytelling sessions that instill values, enhance listening skills, and foster imagination, providing valuable lessons that children carry into adulthood.
  • Cultural Literacy: Sharing cultural knowledge and fostering appreciation.

Health and Wellness: Promoting Physical and Mental Health

We enhance the well-being of refugee and immigrant families through health education, culturally relevant resources, and supportive programs. Our goal is to empower individuals and families to make informed choices, fostering a healthy, thriving community.

• General Health Resources:
  • Healthy Lifestyle: Guidance on balanced living through exercise, sleep, and stress management.
  • Routine Checkups: Information on the importance of regular health screenings.
  • Quit Smoking and Substance Abuse Prevention: Resources for smoking cessation and substance abuse prevention.
  • Women’s and Reproductive Health: Comprehensive information on reproductive care and preventive practices.
  • Mental Health and Emotional Well-being: Resources for mental health support and resilience.
• Infectious Diseases and Public Health:
  • COVID-19 and Infectious Diseases: Updates on prevention, symptoms, treatments, and vaccinations.
• Family and Child Health:
  • Children’s Health: Guidance on nutrition, immunizations, and safety for children.
  • Nutrition and Preventive Care: Tips for balanced diets, healthy eating, and health screenings.
• Food Safety and Hygiene:
  • Healthy Food and Food Safety: Information on nutritious eating and safe food handling.
  • Hygiene Practices: Tips for personal cleanliness to reduce germ spread.
• Environmental Health and Safety:
  • Indoor Air Quality and Pollution Prevention: Guidance on maintaining a healthy environment at home.
• Elder Care and Support:
  • Dementia and Caregiver Support: Resources for managing dementia and supporting caregivers.
• Safety and Injury Prevention:
  • Drive and Fire Safety: Tips for safe driving and fire prevention.
  • Kitchen and Outdoor Safety: Safety practices for kitchen and outdoor activities.