Personal Development
Holistic personal development programming goes beyond job skill training to help women become self-sufficient and confidently navigate life in America.
English
English is the #1 barrier for most refugees, so we focus heavily on building English proficiency.
- Curriculum prepares them to take English qualification exam for college if they choose to pursue classes after graduation.
- Daily English immersion accelerates the learning process and serves as a common ground for the many cultures and languages in our office.
Conversation Partners
When asked what they need, the most common answer for refugee women is "a friend." Conversation partners build relationships and help reinforce English learning by sharing stories, practicing reading, and playing games. As they get to know one another over 21 months, they often spend time together outside of office hours and after graduation.
Digital & Financial Literacy
- Our partner International Rescue Committee (IRC) teaches women basic computer skills, internet use, and managing email. Everyone receives a Chromebook upon passing the class.
- Women are currently learning basic math, building the foundation for financial literacy. We are working to build a financial curriculum adapted for implementation in a refugee population.
Mental Health
Because of the complex trauma refugees have experienced, we provide a trauma-informed program to support them in their healing journey. All staff is trained in trauma-informed care to create a safe work environment that best meet the unique needs of our women. Associates also participate in weekly trauma-informed yoga with a certified trauma informed yoga instructor.
Case Management
A woman will not reach her learning potential if she is struggling to meet basic needs.
- Case managers continually monitor 24 indicators of self-sufficiency to identify areas of crisis or vulnerability. Areas monitored include food, housing, access to medical care, transportation, and childcare.
- Women create a plan to move toward empowerment in each area so they can independently navigate them after graduation.