Location: Ann Arbor,MI, USA
Washtenaw Economic Integration and Opportunity
Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County (JFS), currently the only agency contracted by the State Department to provide resettlement services in Washtenaw County, is uniquely positioned to assist refugees and other immigrants with social and economic community integration. Due to recent federal and state funding reductions, support mechanisms for immigrants and refugees have diminished or become nonexistent. In these times of limited resources, JFS has continued to build capacity to bridge gaps in services through strategic partnerships and to promote integration of refugees, from their arrival date in the country until they are naturalized as U.S. citizens; through services such as resettlement, immigration assistance, English as a Second Language and citizenship education. The proposed project would further these goals of increasing opportunities for integration of immigrants and creating a more welcoming Washtenaw County through leveraging ongoing programming to expand necessary economic empowerment services (job development, skills trainings, asset building, and small business development services) designed to improve the financial capabilities of vulnerable populations residing in Washtenaw County; ultimately enhancing their economic self-sufficiency and participation with the county's economy. Through the proposed project, VISTA members will initiate partnerships to create a welcoming community and build capacity by creating an employer advisory board and refugee advisory board, create skills trainings, develop resource guides, and plan community events. Further help on this page can be found by clicking here.
Member Duties : Build economic integration by creating an employer advisory board and build community inclusion in services by creating a refugee advisory board. Support recertification and placement services for refugees with professional and trade expertise. Examples of professions include pharmacists, physicians, dentists, engineers, barbers, mechanics, caregivers, and electricians. Encourage and assist entrepreneurs in starting small businesses. VISTAs will assist in designing training in areas such as business plan writing, marketing, accounting, relevant legal information, establishing business contacts, and accessing available resources in order to learn how to operate independently. Plan several community events throughout the year that engage community in services and build social capital for consumers.
Program Benefits : Childcare assistance if eligible , Relocation Allowance , Training , Living Allowance , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend , Health Coverage* .
Terms :
Permits working at another job during off hours , Permits attendance at school during off hours , Car recommended .
Service Areas :
Community and Economic Development .
Skills :
Counseling , Leadership , Team Work , Youth Development , Recruitment , Public Speaking , General Skills , Writing/Editing , Community Organization , Fund raising/Grant Writing , Social Services , Non-Profit Management , Business/Entrepreneur , Computers/Technology , Education , Teaching/Tutoring , Communications .