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This summer, the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ in Richmond's youth team led a season full of learning, connection, and empowerment for refugee and immigrant youth. From after school programs and college visits to summer camps and new initiatives, youth of all ages had opportunities to grow socially, emotionally, and academically. These efforts reflect the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡â€™s ongoing commitment to supporting young people as they build brighter futures in their new home.

In March of 2021, approximately 19,000 unaccompanied children attempted to enter the United States through the border with Mexico. For a small percentage of these children, Florida communities are their new home, where they still face challenges. Many of these children have endured traumatic experiences, and many of them find themselves in a state of limbo as cases clog up a fragile and unprepared immigration system, exacerbating their isolation. 

With new families arriving at a break-neck pace, the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ in Charlottesville has temporarily housed several Afghan families in hotels in Waynesboro. ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Volunteers in Waynesboro organized to welcome these families, offering English instruction, outings exploring the community, and friendship.

On the tenth anniversary of the war in Syria, the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ spoke with 10 year olds and their parents about growing up knowing nothing but war.

In September, Jenny Hart, the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ in Salt Lake City’s maternal & child health coordinator, attended an international Gender Equality Champion Conference for ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ staff hosted in Nairobi, Kenya.