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Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for New Americans, Immigrants, and Refugees in West Michigan.
WELCOME PLAN UPDATES
UNITED in Action: Youth Voices, Real Tools, Lasting Community
 Last week, Lansing buzzed with different languages, laughter, and leadership as the state’s only youth-led gathering for immigrant and refugee youth returned for its third year. The Michigan Immigrant and Refugee Council's keynote panel set the tone—an honest, moving dialogue on belonging and identity—offering heart-level ideas for how peers and educators can honor culture so every student feels seen and connected.
The conference also had the following workshops:
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College Access 101 (Jonathan Rosewood): Demystifying applications, aid, and pathways—turning “Can I?” into “Here’s how.”
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Mental Health & Resilience (Amina Mukhtar, Kala Pokhrel, and Nedith Faro): Balancing family, school, and self with the Healthy H.A.L.T. tool and a take-home Resilience Plan.
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Know Your Strengths (Dr. Hasan & guests): Lived stories of grit and leadership that sharpen confidence and belonging.
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It Starts with a Dream (Judith Lusamba): From vision to roadmap—goal-setting, growth mindset, and practical next steps.
- Know Your Rights (Kevin Jackson): Practical, Michigan-specific guidance to handle police/ICE encounters, plan for family safety, spot legal scams, and access trusted resources—so you can act with confidence.
- Discovering My Advantage (Claudia Kolker): Drawing, Writing, and Sharing to surface immigrant strengths - turning them into peer-celebrated "Advantages"
Cultural performances by Nuru Dance Troupe and Thowra Dabke brought energy throughout the day, in celebration and unity.
View Photos of the Event Here!
Community Partner Spotlight: Community Food Club
 The Community Food Club is a nonprofit, member-based grocery store serving low-income and food-insecure households across Kent County. Members pay a small monthly fee ($12–$18 depending on household size and income) for a 30-day membership that includes shopping points—where healthier foods cost fewer points. This innovative model allows families to shop with dignity for the foods they choose.
Recognizing that food is deeply connected to culture, the Food Club works to ensure that culturally appropriate options are available for the diverse families it serves. After listening to feedback from refugee and immigrant members, the Food Club expanded its offerings to include halal meats, made possible through a partnership with Brothers Quality Halal Meat, a New Jersey–based distributor.
To better serve new American neighbors, the Food Club also partnered with Treetops Collective to translate welcome materials into seven languages—Kinyarwanda, Swahili, Arabic, Spanish, Dari, Tigrinya, and Haitian Creole—helping ensure that all members feel informed and included.
Due to rising demand, the Food Club has recently implemented a waitlist for new memberships for the first time in its 10-year history. Households interested in joining can add their name to the waitlist by visiting communityfoodclubgr.org or calling 616-288-5550.
We’re proud to highlight the Community Food Club’s ongoing commitment to dignity, and equitable access to nutritious food in West Michigan.
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 rather 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 Due October 29!
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.
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 at communitysponsorshiphub.org/campus/students
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Local Resources
Small Business Expansion - Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates
Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates (LIA) now offers affordable help for Michigan small businesses and nonprofits (under 25 staff) to hire and retain international talent—moving you from “what are our options?” to completed filings. The services include:
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Consultations: One-hour attorney sessions for candidates already in the U.S. (OPT/STEM-OPT, DACA/TPS/asylum EAD, refugees, parolees).
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Petitions: Full-service H-1B and TN sponsorship—from eligibility review through USCIS submission.
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Workplace Trainings: Tailored guidance on work-authorization verification, when sponsorship applies, timelines, costs, and employer duties.
Get started: Contact Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates to schedule a consult or training.
EILprogram@lia-michigan.org · (616) 298-8984 · 412 W 24th St., Holland, MI
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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
Movement West Michigan: New Neighbor Support Circles
Training — Thursday, Oct 23
Are you looking for a flexible way to welcome immigrant neighbors in the Holland/Zeeland area? With four levels of engagement, you can sign up to learn, provide practical help, walk alongside a family, or lead a support circle.
Join us for Training on Thursday, Oct 23
-- Levels 2 & 3: Responding to CarePortal requests (9–10 am)
-- Level 4: Coordinating Circles of Support (10:15–11:30 am)
Note: All trainings beyond this date are optional. Team Leaders check in quarterly with Movement West Michigan staff and other volunteers mainly respond to practical CarePortal needs or support matched families. Everyone is welcome at its monthly New Neighbor Network gatherings.
Sign Up Here!
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Now Open: Rural Welcoming Initiative 2026 – Welcoming America
Free Membership | Deadline: November 21, 2025
Welcoming America is continuing its commitment to rural communities in 2026 through the Rural Welcoming Initiative (RWI) — a yearlong program designed to help small towns and local nonprofits build inclusion, strengthen connections, and grow as welcoming places for all.
Through this initiative, ten rural communities will receive tailored technical assistance, peer learning sessions, rural local-to-local partnerships, an in-person Rural Welcoming Gathering, and a complimentary 2026 Welcoming America membership.
This opportunity is open to rural local governments, nonprofits, and coalitions working to advance belonging and inclusion in their regions.
Applications are due by Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Learn more and apply: View Flyer and Details
Contact: Briana Broberg – briana@welcomingamerica.org
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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 Café, 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.
Register Here!
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Join the AI & Public Safety Summit
Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 7:30 AM – 8 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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West Michigan Minority Contractors Networking Event
November 6, 2025 | 4:00–6:00 PM | Rockford Construction, 601 First Street NW, Grand Rapids
Join West Michigan Minority Contractors for an evening of networking, learning, and collaboration. These events offer diversely owned contractors a place to connect, build relationships, and explore new opportunities across West Michigan’s growing construction sector.
This session will feature:
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Brad Mathis (Rockford Construction) and Scott Veine (Pioneer Construction) sharing updates on inclusion efforts in Grand Rapids’ recent major projects and outlining upcoming opportunities for local contractors.
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Britany Cooper (APEX Accelerator) presenting insights on bidding for government contracts and navigating procurement processes.
Whether you’re a contractor, developer, architect/engineer, supplier, or trades professional, this is an excellent opportunity to stay informed and expand your network.
Cost: Free and open to members and non-members
Hosted and sponsored by: Rockford Construction
👉 Register Here: West Michigan Minority Contractors Event Registration
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Thrive Together: Financial Empowerment Program – A Glimpse of Africa (AGOA)
November 2025 | Grand Rapids, MI
A Glimpse of Africa is launching the second cohort of Thrive Together, a five-week Financial Empowerment and Small Business Training Program designed for African immigrants and refugees in West Michigan.
Following the success of the first cohort, this program continues to strengthen economic confidence, knowledge, and opportunity within our community. Participants will gain practical tools in personal finance, wealth-building, and business development — empowering them to manage money effectively, start or expand a business, and build lasting financial stability for their families.
AGOA believes in the power of knowledge and community to transform lives. Together, we’ll harness the creativity, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit of the African community to create sustainable economic impact.
👉 Register Here: Thrive Together Registration Form
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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, 2025 | 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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Advocating for Community Impact — Public Workshop
November 18, 1–4 PM
Lake Michigan Credit Union, 5540 Glenwood Hills Pkwy SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Join The Intentional Catalyst’s first-ever public workshop designed for nonprofit leaders, board members, and program staff. We’ll explore how advocacy can amplify community voices, shape policy that builds—not harms—community, and move your mission from intention to measurable impact.
You’ll learn to:
- Understand the legal limitations of advocacy work
- Safeguard your organization’s mission while engaging in advocacy
- Build a practical plan to empower advocacy within your organization
Register Here
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Job Opportunities
Executive Director — Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates (LIA)
Full-Time | Salary DOE | Start Date: Open until filled (applications requested by Dec 15, 2025) | West Michigan (Lakeshore)
LIA seeks a mission-driven Executive Director to lead strategy, fundraising, and operations—advancing immigrant justice across West Michigan.
The Executive Director partners with the Board on vision and governance, stewards finances and compliance, mentors a collaborative team, and represents LIA with donors, partners, and media. The role includes overseeing development (grants, major gifts, contracts), program quality and impact, and community engagement/advocacy.
👉 More Information Here: Executive Director Job Description (PDF)
Staff Attorney / DOJ-Accredited Representative – Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates (LIA)
Full-Time (36–40 hrs/week) | $50,000 DOJ / $65,000+ Staff Attorney | Start Date: August 2025 | Holland, MI
The Staff Attorney or DOJ-Accredited Representative will provide high-quality immigration legal representation before USCIS, the U.S. Department of State, and potentially EOIR, serving immigrant and refugee community members across West Michigan.
Responsibilities include managing a diverse caseload of family-based and humanitarian immigration matters, preparing petitions and applications, conducting consultations, and collaborating on community education and outreach efforts.
The position may include limited supervision of volunteers and interns, participation in regional coalitions and committees, and occasional travel for community events, mobile clinics, and educational presentations.
LIA offers a family-friendly, flexible work environment with benefits including medical/dental coverage, IRA matching, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
👉 More Information Here: LIA Staff Attorney / DOJ Representative Job Description (PDF)
Grand Rapids–Based Staff Attorney - Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates (LIA)
Full-Time (36–40 hrs/week) | $65,000+ DOE | Start Date: August–September 2025 | Grand Rapids, MI
The Staff Attorney will provide high-quality immigration legal representation before USCIS, the U.S. Department of State, and potentially EOIR, serving individuals and families across West Michigan. Responsibilities include managing a diverse caseload, preparing petitions and applications, conducting consultations, and collaborating on community education and outreach efforts.
The position may include limited supervision of DOJ-accredited representatives, interns, and support staff, as well as participation in coalitions and committees advancing immigrant and refugee rights.
👉 More Information Here: Staff Attorney Job Description (PDF)
Women’s Concentric Leaders – Treetops Collective
Treetops Collective is now recruiting participants for the next cohort of Women’s Concentric Leaders, a 15-month leadership development program empowering immigrant and refugee women to connect, grow, and lead in West Michigan.
This opportunity begins with a three-month orientation in February 2026, followed by a year of hands-on leadership training and community engagement. Participants work together to build confidence, strengthen networks, and drive positive change in their neighborhoods.
Applicants should be proficient in English and one or more of the following languages: Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Dari, Pashto, Tigrinya, Amharic, Cuban or Venezuelan Spanish, Haitian Creole, Arabic, Ukrainian, Rohingya, Burmese, or Somali.
Those interested can apply online at this link or contact Taryn Hoeksema at 616-448-6952 for more information.
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.
Visit our website to view and apply for our open positions.
Funding Opportunities
Now Open: Going PRO Talent Fund (GPTF) – Statewide Applications
Deadline: Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 4:59 p.m.
Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund (GPTF) is now accepting applications for Cycle 1 of FY26. This statewide funding opportunity supports businesses with up to 25 full-time employees (FTEs) in training, developing, and retaining skilled workers.
Through this competitive grant program, employers can apply for a share of $29 million in funds to support:
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On-the-job training for new employees
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Upskilling and development for existing staff
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U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeships
Questions or need help getting started? Contact your Business Solutions Representative or reach out to business@westmiworks.org for statewide assistance.
 October
23 | New Neighbor Circles of Support
23 | Trunk or Treat for Lead Defeat
29 | Future In Bloom Fundraiser - Treetops
30 | AI & Public Safety Summit
November
06 | West Michigan Minority Contractors Networking Event
11 | Talent & Inclusion Summit
13 | Tapestry - Celebrating 15 Years of Global Detroit
19 | Advocating for Community Impact
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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