|
View as Webpage
Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for New Americans, Immigrants, and Refugees in West Michigan.
WELCOME PLAN UPDATES
 Join Us for the 2025 Global Gathering
The Annual Global Gathering returns to Garfield Park on September 13, and we invite you to be part of this vibrant celebration of cultures. This free community event showcases the many different cultures that make our region unique, bringing together food, music, art, and traditions from around the world.
There are many ways to participate:
-
Be a Vendor – Share your food or resources with the community.
-
Perform on Stage – Showcase music, dance, or cultural performances.
-
Lead a Workshop – Teach a hands-on cultural activity.
-
Walk the Runway – Model in the Cultural Fashion Show.
-
Volunteer – Help make this event a success.
-
Sponsor the Event – Support and uplift our community.
Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate and connect.
Sign up today to select your participation role!
Catch Up on Our Latest Grant Writing Workshop
 click on the image to view video
Missed our most recent session? Watch the recording of our second Grant Writing Success Academy workshop, Internal Accounting Practices, presented by Mubashir Haidary, Grants Accountant, at the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.
This session offered practical guidance on strengthening financial management, avoiding common pitfalls, and increasing your chances of securing funding.
The Grant Writing Success Academy is part of the Welcome Plan’s 2025 Strategic Plan to ensure programs and opportunities are accessible to immigrants and refugees. As outlined in our Operations Strategies, the workshops are intentionally structured to build knowledge progressively each quarter—from beginner to advanced—culminating in the final session, Where Are the Grants, later this year.
Participants who complete at least three of the four sessions will receive a certificate of completion and be recognized in Welcome Plan communications. To encourage full engagement, we also offer individual grant writer consultations at the end of the series.
There are still two workshops remaining this year. Don’t miss out—join the Academy and continue building your skills. Sign up here
New Federal Registration Requirement for Immigrants: What You Need to Know
Starting April 11, 2025, a new rule will require all non-citizens in the U.S. to register with the federal government. Many non-citizens are already considered registered; however, consulting with a legal service provider is important to determine if you are registered or if other actions are recommended.
Additional obligations under the new rule include mandatory reporting of address changes and requiring all non-citizens age 18 years and older to carry documentation of their registered status. It is important to seek guidance from a trusted immigration attorney to understand any risks and what documentation you may need to carry. If you do not have an immigration attorney, you can reach out to local resources:
-
Immigration Law and Justice MI – intake line: (616) 320-2734
-
Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates – intake line: (616) 221-5542
-
Michigan Immigrant Rights Center – intake line: (734) 239-6863
This not formal legal advice but education on a federal law that will effect thousands in our community in the near future.
Recent Federal Funding Cuts Impact Refugee Families in West Michigan – Your Help is Needed
In January 2025, the federal government froze funding for refugee resettlement, severely impacting vital resources for families approved to start new lives in West Michigan. In response, local organizations like the Kalamazoo Refugee Resource Collaborative (KRRC), along with members of the faith community, have come together to forge a plan of action. While the uncertainty around federal funding continues, the resilience of our community is clear. Volunteers and local agencies are working tirelessly to ensure that no family is left behind.
But this is just the beginning. The West Michigan Welcome Plan Collaborative is still building a sustainable, homegrown support network, and we need your help. We’ve heard the urgent needs from local organizations, and now we are reaching out to you to stand with us.
We need your support! Here are a few specific ways you can make a meaningful impact:
-
Community Interpreter: Help provide essential language support at Power of Attorney/emergency planning workshops, ensuring that everyone can access critical services.
-
Immigration Attorney: Volunteer at walk-in clinics to provide individual legal support for those navigating the complex immigration system.
-
Faith Institution - Collections Network: Partner with worship centers to leverage collections at determined intervals to directly support resettlement and welcoming initiatives.
-
Volunteer: Transportation Support (Scheduled or Emergency/on-call): Help provide transportation for individuals who need it, ensuring they can attend critical appointments and workshops.
These are just a few of the opportunities available to make a direct impact in supporting refugee and immigrant families. Your involvement is crucial!
Community Support Network Survey
Let’s ensure that every refugee family who chooses West Michigan as their new home is welcomed with open arms.
USCIS Ombudsman Office Closed
The Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman has closed. This office used to help with problems or delays in immigration cases.
If you're experiencing delays or issues with your application, consider reaching out to your U.S. representative or senator for assistance. The Office of Global Michigan (OGM) recently met with Senator Slotkin’s office, and they are ready to assist with immigration issues. The OGM is also willing to triage referrals with the Senator’s staff.
Important: You should only contact one office—either your U.S. representative or one of our senators. Contacting multiple legislators can slow down the process. Choose one office and submit your request for help.
|
Join the Conversation on Immigrant Economic Inclusion
Staff working on immigrant economic inclusion are invited to a special virtual gathering on April 10 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST. The E Pluribus “Rising to the Moment” meeting will provide an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions through small breakout sessions. This is a chance to learn from peers and strengthen collective impact in communities across the country.
Pre-registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to collaborate and gain insights from fellow professionals.
|
The Immigration Policy Tracking Project (IPTP)
View a comprehensive and up-to-date federal catalog of federal immigration policies and processes, including key source documents and status updates.
Resource Reminder: Red Cross Restoring Family Links Program
When a client or community member shares that they have lost contact with a loved one, please refer them to the Red Cross’s international search program, Restoring Family Links (RFL).
The RFL program uses Red Cross personnel and resources around the world to help locate individuals separated by war, natural disasters, migration, personal persecution, or other crises. These services are free, confidential, and available to anyone—regardless of immigration status. All personal information is securely protected by Red Cross systems and is not shared with public agencies. The program is sensitive to concerns about safety, further harm, or persecution.
The Red Cross team is grateful for the continued care and support provided to members of the community. RFL Interview Guide - ICRC Red Safe Information
|
Community Engagement
Thrive Together - Financial Empowerment - A Glimpse of Africa
5 week Cohort Starting March 15 thru May 3 2025
A Glimpse of Africa is dedicated to empowering African immigrants and refugees in West Michigan by providing the financial tools, business knowledge, and resources needed to thrive. This five week course covers practical lessons in personal finance, wealth-building strategies, and business development to help individuals manage finances, grow businesses, and strengthen their families' financial futures.
This program is designed to support the talented and creative African community in West Michigan, fostering lasting economic impact for individuals and the broader community.
Join this journey toward financial empowerment!
Register today and take the first step towards a stronger financial future.
Click on image for Program Brochure
|
Join the Conversation at KConnect’s Education Summit
Education Summit on Saturday, April 19, 2025
Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation - 1530 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507-1715
This convening will bring together key stakeholders to align efforts in strengthening student well-being in local schools.
In preparation for the summit, KConnect is hosting a series of webinars and podcasts to foster meaningful discussions leading up to the event. These sessions will provide valuable insights and advocacy opportunities, ensuring participants are well-equipped to drive change. Those unable to attend the summit can still engage by registering for the webinars.
With ongoing challenges in public education—including funding cuts and policy shifts—this summit serves as a vital platform for collaboration and action. Join the movement to ensure access and quality in education for all students in Kent County.
Learn More & Register for the EdSummit
|
Tale of Two Worlds Arab and Islamic Celebration
April 19 - 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Grand Rapids Public Museum - 272 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Join the American-Arab Intellectual Property Association for Tales of Two Worlds: Celebrating Arab & Islamic Culture, an inspiring event dedicated to fostering cultural appreciation and understanding in West Michigan.
Founded in 2021 by international intellectual property expert Haitham Hashem Atiyah, the association is committed to promoting cross-cultural connections. This celebration showcases the rich heritage, traditions, and contributions of Arab and Islamic communities in Grand Rapids and beyond.
Register for this event to deepen your understanding of the vibrant cultures that enrich West Michigan.
|
Business Growth Workshop: Strengthening Entrepreneurial Resilience
Tuesday, April 22 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Grand Rapids Chamber 250 Monroe
Members:$35 Non-Members: $55
The demands of today’s fast-paced business world can lead to burnout, especially for entrepreneurs and business owners. However, success doesn’t have to come at the expense of your well-being.
Join us for "Strengthening Entrepreneurial Resilience: Strategies for Sustained Success," a workshop designed to provide practical tools to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain your health while growing your business.
Facilitated by Dr. Einfeld, Executive Coach and Founder of Awaken Leadership Solutions, this session will offer expert guidance on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship with confidence and clarity. Register now to join this event!
|
An Evening with France Hoang: A Story of Resilience, Service, and the American Dream
Thursday, April 24 - Public Program at 6:30 p.m.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI - Registration Required
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum invites the public to a powerful presentation featuring France Hoang, whose remarkable journey spans from fleeing Vietnam as a child refugee to leading evacuation efforts for Afghan allies nearly five decades later. His story highlights the enduring spirit of service, the impact of humanitarian leadership, and the transformative power of opportunity in America.
Hoang will reflect on his experiences—from arriving in the U.S. as a refugee and attending West Point to serving in the military, advising at the White House, and ultimately playing a key role in assisting Afghan evacuees during the U.S. withdrawal. His journey is a testament to resilience, duty, and the far-reaching effects of compassion.
This event also honors President Gerald Ford’s leadership during Operation New Life, which welcomed over 130,000 Vietnamese refugees in 1975. Through Hoang’s story, attendees will gain insight into how President Ford’s bold humanitarian actions continue to shape lives and inspire new generations.
Virtual Option: Those unable to attend in person can join the live stream from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library in Ann Arbor via Zoom on April 23.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on leadership, service, and the immigrant experience in America.
|
Fair Housing Deep Dive: Renter Rights & Responsibilities for Tenants/Rental Homeseekers
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
6 pm - 7:30 pm ET / Held via Zoom; Register here
This online session, supported by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, will cover fair housing laws, protections for families and individuals with disabilities, criminal background screening, harassment, new income source protections, and how to report housing discrimination.
This training is ideal for tenants, rental home seekers, and community advocates seeking to better understand fair housing rights. Advance registration is required. A recording will be available on Fair Housing Center of West Michigan’s YouTube channel for those unable to attend live.
|
On the Same Page Author Visit: Kaveh Akbar & Tommy Orange
Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at Godwin Heights High School
Bestselling authors Kaveh Akbar and Tommy Orange will discuss their novels Martyr! and Wandering Stars as part of the On the Same Page series. The event will include a Q&A session, offering the audience a chance to engage with the authors.
This event is offered in partnership with Calvin University’s January Series, and pre-signed copies of both books will be available for purchase from Books & Mortar.
Please note that photos and videos will be taken at the event. By attending, you consent to being photographed or filmed. Visit event Registration Page for more information.
For handicap accessible seating or ASL interpretation, please email programming@kdl.org. We require at least two weeks’ notice for ASL requests.
Find a parking map or submit questions for the authors at kdl.org/samepage.
|
Global Street Food Night
Wednesday, May 1, from 5 pm to 8 pm at City on a Hill, 100 Pine St, Zeeland
Empowering Youth Global Connection is hosting a free event inviting the community to experience a variety of international flavors while celebrating cultural diversity.
Attendees can enjoy a selection of global street foods, connect with others, and support the mission of Empowering Youth Global Connection. All are welcome to join this evening of food, culture, and community. Admission is free.
|
Refugee Education Center Open House
Tuesday May 13 / 8 am - 10 am
HUB07 - 1534 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids MI
The Refugee Education Center (REC) is celebrating an exciting milestone with a move into HUB07, a new space designed to enhance its services for refugee families. To mark this transition, REC is hosting an Open House on May 13, inviting community members to explore the new facility and learn more about its expanded impact.
The move includes the launch of the Boston Square Early Childhood Center, which will provide early learning opportunities for up to 72 young children, as well as a dedicated workspace for staff to strengthen support for refugee families.
With a central location and proximity to key community resources, this new space will allow REC to better assist refugee families as they navigate resettlement. As challenges in the refugee resettlement landscape continue, REC remains committed to providing a welcoming and empowering environment for those in need.
|
Call for Vendors: Mental Health & Wellness Fair & Africa Day Celebration
A Glimpse of Africa is seeking vendors for its annual Mental Health & Wellness Fair and Africa Day Celebration, taking place on May 17-18. This two-day event will provide a space for mental health awareness, wellness resources, and cultural celebration, with a special focus on supporting refugee and immigrant communities.
Vendor Opportunities:
-
Food vendors offering diverse cuisines
-
Merchandise vendors showcasing unique products
-
Mental health & wellness providers sharing resources and support
This event will feature mental health specialists, financial and immigration resources, health screenings, a soccer tournament, and family-friendly activities, creating a meaningful opportunity to engage with the community.
Interested vendors can register now using this link or QR code on the flyer. For more details, contact the event organizers. Join us in building a healthier, thriving community!
|
Health is Wealth Community 5K in Support of AQUME Foundation
Saturday June 28, 10 a.m.
Millenium Park Paviliion - 1400 Maynard Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI
We are excited to invite you, your family, and your organization to participate in the Health is Wealth Community 5K, supporting the AQUME Foundation. Whether you choose to walk, run, or form a team, this event is a great opportunity to promote wellness and give back to the community.
Ways to Get Involved:
-
Register & Participate – Walk or run as an individual or team. Sign up here: Register Now
-
Sponsor the Event – Help us reach our $25,000 community grant-making goal. Sponsorship details available upon request.
-
Share & Support – Spread the word by sharing the event video and registration link. Donations are also accepted via the sign-up page.
We hope to see you there as we work together to make a difference!
|
RISE UP Youth Program - Hispanic Center of West Michigan
June 10 - August 14
This program offers participants the opportunity to explore career exploration skills, health and wellness, embracing cultural identity, setting and achieving goals, and enjoy fun and exciting field trips.
For more details, check out the flyer. Questions? Contact Dr. Pimentel, Director of Education, at lpimentel@hispanic-center.org.
Encourage eligible youth to apply and spread the word about this valuable opportunity!
|
Funding Opportunities
2025 Fiscal Sponsorships – Michigan Immigrant and Refugee Council (MIARC)
Applications due by May 1, 2025.
MIARC is offering fiscal sponsorships to support projects benefiting immigrant and refugee communities in Michigan. Funded initiatives may include cultural preservation, educational programs, leadership development, and advocacy. This opportunity is open to organizations aligning with MIARC’s mission of inclusion, equity, and social justice.
Click here for full grant details and application instructions.
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC)
FEMA recently released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for BRIC (Building Resilient Infrastructure Communities) funding, totaling $750 million in available support. These funds will help state, local, Tribal, and territorial governments address high-level future risks to natural disasters, foster greater community resilience, and reduce disaster suffering. The application can be submitted until April 18.
Learn more here
Challenge America, National Endowment for the Arts
Applications due by April 24, 2025.
Challenge America offers support of up to $10,000 for projects that extend the reach of the arts to underserved groups/communities. Project activities may include, but are not limited to: arts programming; audience and community engagement, including educational activities; marketing and promotional activities; and organizational planning. This program welcomes applications from applicants that are primarily small organizations, first-time applicants to the NEA, returning Challenge America applicants, or applicants that have not been recently recommended for funding in one of our other grant programs.
Click here to find a full grant program description and application instructions.
Job Opportunities
Church of the Servant Hiring Pastoral Staff
Church of the Servant is seeking to add a part-time or full-time pastor to its team to support its growing, multicultural congregation. Ideal candidates will have strong preaching and pastoral care skills, and a collaborative spirit. Intercultural communication skills, some Swahili, and a passion for intergenerational ministry are a plus.
Interested applicants can email a statement of interest and qualifications to search@coscrc.org. Learn more at coscrc.org.
Multilingual Driving Instructor
Treetops Collective
In an effort to play a role in increasing the number of multilingual driving instructors in West Michigan and simultaneously increasing language-based access to driver’s training for refugees and immigrants, Treetops Collective has committed to fund two new multi-lingual driver’s instructors in Kent County in 2025.
➔ You'll be trained and licensed through Michigan Traffic Safety
➔ You’ll receive on the road training hours through Cox-McKenzie School of Driving
➔ Your new license as a driver’s instructor will allow you to earn income and create better access and opportunities for immigrant and refugee community members who receive driver’s training from you. Job Description Here!
Community School Coordinator
Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools
The Community School Coordinator is responsible for the implementation, integration, alignment, and coordination of the community school strategy through relationship building and linking community resources to the school. The Coordinator will work directly with students, staff, and families, identifying barriers that limit student success, and will develop strategies and resources to improve attendance and promote student, family, and community engagement. Job Description Here.
Engagement Director
Treetops Collective
- Fundraising and Events
- Donor Engagement and Communications
- Leadership and Supervision
Send your resume to trish@treetopscollective.org
April
10 | E Pluribus “Rising to the Moment”
19 | Tale of Two Worlds - Arab and Islam Celebration
19 | KConnect’s Education Summit
22 | Business Growth Workshop
24 | An Evening with France Hoang
29 | Fair Housing Deep Dive
30 | Author Visit: Kaveh Akbar & Tommy Orange
May
01 | Global Street Food Night
13 | REC Open House
17-18 | Mental Health & Wellness Fair & Africa Day Celebration
 Looking for a rewarding career? Consider Kent County!
Working for the County, you will have the opportunity to serve the public and contribute to your community. We have employment opportunities in general government, health, public safety, judicial, recreational, and much more.Visit our website to view and apply for our open positions.
 Completion of this interest form will connect you with our coordinator to learn more about the Welcome Plan Collaborative and get connected to a workgoup.
Please share communications with Marcial Benavidez (marcial.benavidez@kentcountymi.gov) any communications that you would like to include on Tuesdays by 9 am to be shared on the Weekly Wednesday Communication.
Quick Subscribe to our newsletter here!
|
