At the International Institute of Akron, we believe in the power of community and the importance of standing together during challenging times. This month, we are facing new hurdles—but with your support, we continue to provide vital resources and advocacy for immigrants and refugees in our region.
Read on to learn about the latest policy changes, an inspiring employment success story, and how you can get involved to make a difference.
Fighting for Our Community in Uncertain Times
The landscape of immigration policy continues to shift, and recent federal actions have introduced new challenges to our work at the International Institute of Akron (IIA). This past month, the federal government began pulling resettlement contracts nationwide, a decision that directly impacts the families we serve. These changes not only threaten the stability of refugee resettlement programs but also undermine due process and legal protections for those seeking safety in our community.
The abrupt withdrawal of these contracts disrupts lives and places vulnerable individuals at risk. Legal challenges against these actions are currently making their way through the courts, arguing that these decisions are not only disruptive but also unlawful. IIA stands in solidarity with these efforts, advocating for fair treatment and the restoration of essential protections for refugees.
While the legal battle continues, we remain steadfast in our mission. In response to these uncertainties, we are expanding our social services to ensure that clients whose resettlement cases have been delayed still receive the support they need. From legal assistance to employment services, our team is committed to helping every individual build a stable, self-sufficient life, regardless of policy shifts.
For more on recent resettlement news, check out the IIA team on News 5 Cleveland:
News 5 Cleveland: Organizations, Volunteers Still Helping Refugee Families Amid Federal Funding Cuts
Employment Services Success Story: Building a Future Together
A recent success story from our Employment Services department highlights the life-changing impact of our work. An Employment Case Manager at IIA shared the journey of a newly arrived Afghan man struggling to find work to support his large family. Back home, he had been a skilled car mechanic, but despite his dedication to English classes, the language barrier prevented him from securing a similar position.
With the support of his Employment Case Manager, he found a job repairing and refurbishing automobile parts. To further bridge the language gap, his son was also hired by the same company. This dual placement not only provided the family with a second income but also made communication easier for both the employee and the employer.
"They are doing great so far," said a representative from the auto company. "Having his son there as another strong worker and translator has made the process much easier than it would be otherwise." Both father and son have expressed their happiness with the job, which requires sharp attention to detail and patience—skills they excel in.
Stories like these remind us of the resilience and determination of the people we serve. With the right support, individuals can overcome barriers and rebuild their lives with dignity. To ensure we can continue providing critical employment assistance and other essential services, please consider contributing to IIA’s Emergency Fund. Your donation helps sustain programs that connect immigrants and refugees with stable job opportunities, offering them a pathway toward self-sufficiency and success. Together, we can create more stories of empowerment and hope.
Resources: Deepening Understanding and Advocacy
Explore these resources to better understand the experiences of immigrants and the challenges they face:
📚Books:
🎬Movies & Documentaries:
📰Articles:
How You Can Help
Donate: Monetary contributions are more vital than ever. With resettlement contracts under threat, your financial support ensures that we can continue providing essential services to immigrants and refugees.
Volunteer: From mentoring job seekers to supporting English language learners, your time and skills make a difference. Learn more about volunteering opportunities on our website.
Advocate: Contact your local representatives and urge them to protect refugee resettlement programs and immigrant rights. For more information on advocacy, head to https://www.iiakron.org/resources.
Thank You for Standing with Us
In these uncertain times, your support means everything. The challenges facing immigrants and refugees are growing, but so is the strength of our community. Your commitment to advocacy, generosity, and action helps ensure that every individual seeking safety and opportunity has a path forward. Together, we are building a more just, welcoming, and resilient future.
