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Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for New Americans, Immigrants, and Refugees in West Michigan.
WELCOME PLAN UPDATES
Global Gathering West Michigan: A Day of Community and Celebration
 📸 Photography by Nedith Faro Art and Photography
The team is still filled with gratitude and joy following this year’s Global Gathering West Michigan—a day that brought together community, culture, and celebration in every corner of Garfield Park. The event was a beautiful reflection of unity and belonging, and these photos capture that energy and spirit perfectly.
Click the image above or this video link to view more highlights or from the event!
Spotlight on Success: Grant Writing Success Academy 2025
 Click the image above to watch Rahma Worldwide’s video and learn more about their ongoing impact and commitment to serving communities in need.
Congratulations to Abdelbari from Rahma Worldwide for his outstanding participation in this year’s Grant Writing Success Academy.
Throughout the series, participants strengthened their grant readiness—learning how to organize essential documentation, identify funding opportunities, and align proposals with their organization’s mission and goals.
As part of his participation, Rahma Worldwide was selected to be featured on our communication platforms. Since 2014, Rahma has been at the forefront of global relief efforts, providing humanitarian aid and assistance in Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Kenya, and beyond.
Leadership in Action: Regenail Thomas on Community and Belonging
 Regenail Thomas, CEO of Seeds of Promise, shares powerful insights on why embracing West Michigan’s newcomer community is essential to building a stronger, more inclusive future.
Seeds of Promise is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Grand Rapids’ Southeast community. Operating as a place-based urban improvement initiative, the organization uses a “Bottom-Up” strategy that empowers residents to design and lead their own plans for neighborhood prosperity. This vision thrives on recognizing the vital contributions of newcomers who strengthen the fabric of our community.
Through his message, Regenail reminds us what true leadership looks like protecting, uplifting, and standing alongside every member of our community.
🎥 Click on the video above and be inspired to take action.
👉 Leaders are invited to join the conversation by filling out the short survey to share your commitment, solidarity, and support for immigrant and refugee neighbors.
Together, we can help shape a West Michigan where everyone belongs.
Job Opening: Welcome Plan Economic Development Coordinator
We’re seeking a dynamic professional to join our team as the Welcome Plan Economic Development Coordinator—a part-time, hybrid position (20 hours/week) dedicated to advancing immigrant workforce inclusion and strengthening economic opportunities across West Michigan.
The Coordinator will help lead regional collaboration by co-chairing the Maximize Economic Potential Workgroup, coordinating events on immigrant hiring and entrepreneurship, and aligning strategies among employers and community partners.
Ideal candidates will have strong communication and relationship-building skills, experience in event coordination or project management, and knowledge of immigrant or workforce development programs. Bilingual or multilingual applicants are highly encouraged to apply.
Learn more and apply here!
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Volunteer at the Michigan Immigrant Youth Conference – Fall 2025
Lansing, MIÂ
Be part of something powerful. This fall, the Michigan Immigrant Youth Conference returns—bringing together over 240 immigrant and refugee youth from across the state for a day of inspiration, connection, and growth.
We’re looking for passionate volunteers to help make this event a success! From welcoming students to assisting with workshops and logistics, your support will help create a safe, empowering space where young leaders can thrive.
Why Volunteer?
- Support youth navigating immigration and identity
- Gain experience in event coordination and youth engagement
- Help lead workshops on college access, mental health, and civic engagement
- Be part of a community working to build a more welcoming Michigan
We especially need volunteers for the 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. timeslots to help with setup, registration, and morning coordination.
Sign up to volunteer or contact us to learn more about how you can get involved. We need your help!
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The New International Degree Toolkit!
 The International Degree toolkit, developed by the Welcome Plan’s Maximize Economic Potential Workgroup, helps immigrants and refugees translate international education into local careers. Available in 10 languages, it maps practical next steps: continue your studies, pursue re-licensing, strengthen job-ready English, or launch a business.
đź“„ Download the toolkit and access translations here: Download Now
Submit Newsletter Content!
We’re now using a Community Newsletter Submission Form to collect news, events, and opportunities that support immigrants, refugees, and New Americans in West Michigan. Use the form to request inclusion in our newsletter, website, or social media.
Email requests will no longer be accepted. Submission does not guarantee inclusion; priority goes to content most relevant to immigrant communities.
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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.
Education
The Path to Higher Education for Refugee Students Starts Here
Applications open October 2025.
Information sessions will be held Thursdays at 4 p.m. ET from September 25 to October 16.
The Community Sponsorship Hub (CSH), in partnership with the Institute of International Education (IIE), Every Campus A Refuge (ECAR), and the Presidents’ Alliance, is launching a new Education Access Program for refugees resettled in the U.S. on or after January 1, 2021.
This is not a traditional scholarship. The program connects eligible students with participating U.S. colleges and universities and provides support with tuition coverage, academic placement, application guidance, and mentorship.
Eligibility: Applicants must be between 18–30 years old by August 1, 2026, have arrived under USRAP or SIV, hold or be completing a high school diploma by June 15, 2026, and live for at least one year in one of 19 participating states.
Learn more and register: communitysponsorshiphub.org/campus/students
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Local Resources
Upcoming Health Literacy & English Class – Starting October 14
The next Health Literacy and English class will begin on October 14 at Streams/Catherine’s Health (280 60th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49548). This five-week course will meet twice a week and is designed for adult learners with current refugee status. Childcare and transportation assistance will be provided.
Flyers are available in English, Spanish, Dari, Kinyarwanda, and Swahili (click on the image to view) and can be shared with clients, families, patients, and staff. Instructions on the referral process are also included. Referrals are already being received, and the organizers extend their sincere thanks for the support.
For questions, please contact (616) 551-4553 by email, text, or phone.
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Online Citizenship Test Civics Classes
With the Ford Museum & New-York Historical Society
Date & Location
Mondays & Wednesdays, October 20 – November 5, 2025
6:30–8:30 PM | Online via Zoom
Are you preparing for U.S. citizenship? Join a special set of free online classes designed to help green card holders study for the civics portion of the naturalization test.
These classes are offered in partnership with the Ford Museum and the New-York Historical Society, as part of their Citizenship Project. Participants will receive guided instruction and study resources to build confidence for the civics test.
Learn more about the NYHS program here:
New-York Historical Society Citizenship Project
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Immigration Legal Services: Immigrant Connection at KCC
1200 60th St SE in Kentwood, Monday through Wednesday from 9 AM to 5 PM
Immigrant Connection at Kentwood Community Church provides low-cost immigration legal services for the West Michigan community.
Services are available by appointment only. Community members can request a consultation online. Those interested can sign up at: kentwoodcommunitychurch.com/immigrant-connection. For questions, contact: ic@kcconline.org or call 616-827-3211.
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Community Engagement
Women & Girls Wellness Conversation - A Glimpse of Africa
Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
HUB 07 – 1534 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids
The Community Women & Girls Wellness Conversation invites women and girls to a safe, welcoming space to connect, share, and uplift one another. This gathering will feature meaningful discussions led by community experts who understand the experiences of women, mothers, and girls.
Attendees will enjoy authentic African cuisine, a candle-making activity, henna art, prize giveaways, and more. It’s an opportunity to build connections, celebrate wellness, and have fun together.
All daughters, sisters, friends, and neighbors are welcome to join this empowering community event. Click on the image for contact flyer and contact information
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Experience Korean Culture: Korean Connection Event
Monday, October 20, 2025
Calvin University Covenant Fine Arts Center
Discover the beauty and depth of Korean heritage right here in West Michigan! Join Korean Connection for a day of cultural education and community celebration featuring special performances by the Orchestra of the Blind, and opportunities to learn more about Korean history and contemporary life.
Purchase Tickets Here
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ASIAN GALA
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Goei Center - The Goei Center 818 Butterworth St SW
Join the West Michigan Asian American Association (WMAAA) for an elegant evening celebrating community and Asian heritage. Experience the richness of culture and reflect on the impactful work WMAAA has done to empower the Asian American community.Â
Click on image for Sponsor Packet
Purchase Tickets Here
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Trunk-or-Treat for Lead Defeat: Healthy Homes Coalition
Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 5 PM–7 PM | SECOM south parking lot
Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan invites families to its annual Trunk-or-Treat for Lead Defeat.
This community event raises awareness about childhood lead poisoning—an issue affecting many families in Kent County. Attendees will learn about lead hazards, safe housing, and community resources—all while enjoying a fun, family-friendly evening with treats and activities.
Click on the image for event flyer.
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Future In Full Bloom Celebration
Wednesday, October 29 * 11 AM
889 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Treetops Collective is hosting its annual fundraising luncheon celebrating growth, potential, and the thriving futures of young women in the Teen Concentric Program.
Guests can explore handmade goods from the Rooted Together store, enjoy chai from the Community CafĂ©, connect with staff and program members, and take in live music, global appetizers, and a photo booth—all before and during the main program. If you’re passionate about welcoming, youth leadership, and community connection, this is a great event to support.Â
Register Here!
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Join the AI & Public Safety Summit
Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM | GVSU Eberhard Center, Grand Rapids
This full-day summit will bring together community members, youth, advocates, technologists, and law enforcement to explore how artificial intelligence can enhance public safety while ensuring equity, accountability, and community voice remain at the center.
The day will include engaging panel discussions, Q&A sessions, workshops, and interactive strategy opportunities. Your participation is essential to shaping how AI can best serve and protect all members of our community.
👉 Save the date and register here today
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Glass Slipper Masquerade Ball
Friday, October 31 (8 PM – 12 AM, doors open at 7 PM).
This elegant black-tie fundraiser includes dinner and supports Seeds of Promise, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Grand Rapids’ Southeast community.
Seeds of Promise is a place-based urban community improvement initiative that empowers residents to lead their own strategies for neighborhood growth. Their “bottom-up” approach focuses on building prosperity and producing measurable impact for the future.
Check out the event flyer for ticket information and details.
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2025 Talent & Inclusion Summit
Unlocking Talent, Inclusion, and Retention for a Stronger West Michigan
Tuesday, November 11, 2025 | 8 AM – 1 PM | JW Marriott, Grand Rapids
The Grand Rapids Chamber’s Talent & Inclusion Summit brings together executives, Human Resource professionals, and thought leaders to explore strategies for building inclusive, high-performing teams. This year’s focus includes inclusive leadership, effective attraction and retention strategies, and engaging a multi-generational workforce.
Attendees will leave with practical tools to strengthen workplace culture, foster belonging, and retain top talent across West Michigan.
Register Here!
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TAPESTRY: Celebrating 15 Years of Global Detroit
NOVEMBER 13, 2025Â | 2900 E GRAND BLVD Detroit, MI
This November, Global Detroit invites you to TAPESTRY, our annual fundraiser and community celebration. Together we’ll honor 15 years of advancing immigrant-focused strategies that fuel innovation, strengthen communities, and drive prosperity across Southeast Michigan.
The evening will feature food, drinks, music, and special guests while recognizing the leaders, organizations, and businesses shaping a more welcoming Michigan.
Sponsorship is your opportunity to celebrate Global Detroit’s 15 years of impact, take a stand for smart immigration policies that safeguard entrepreneurship and economic growth, and bolster shared prosperity by ensuring immigrants are intentionally part of regional development strategies.
 View Sponsor Packet
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Job Opportunities
Interim Executive Director – Coalition of African Organizations in West Michigan (CAO-WM)
CAO-WM is seeking a part-time (20 hrs/week, hybrid) Interim Executive Director ($25–$30/hr) to lead strategic vision, fundraising, and operations in support of African immigrant organizations across West Michigan.
Those interested can apply at www.cao-wm.org or learn more by contacting: coa.wm1@gmail.com.
Build a Career with Purpose - Consider Kent County
When you join Kent County, you're not just starting a job—you’re serving your community. Our team works across a wide range of areas, including public health, safety, justice, parks and recreation, and general government services. No matter your background or skillset, there’s a place for you to make a meaningful impact.Â
Visit our website to view and apply for our open positions.
 October
17 | Michigan Immigrant Youth Conference
18 | Women and Girls Wellness Conversation
20 | Korean Connection Event
22 |Â Asian Gala - WMAAA
23 | Trunk or Treat for Lead Defeat
29 | Future In Bloom Fundraiser - Treetops
30 | AI & Public Safety Summit
31 | Glass Slipper Masquerade Ball
November
13 | Tapestry - Celebrating 15 Years of Global Detroit
Want to Join the Collaborative?
 If you haven’t joined us yet, click here to get started.
By completing our interest form, you'll be connected with our coordinator to learn more about the Welcome Plan Collaborative and how to get involved in one of our workgroups.
Want to take your support even further? Meet our funding development team and discover how your contribution can help advance our mission across West Michigan.
And don’t miss our short video celebrating recent accomplishments and highlighting the impact of our collaborative work—we think you’ll be inspired!
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