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This blog offers practical strategies to advocate for wage increases on behalf of newcomer clients facing cost-of-living challenges. It offers concrete approaches for both direct advocacy with employers and for preparing clients to advocate for themselves. The blog also discusses common challenges and legal considerations that could arise. Understanding the Wage Challenge The rising cost…
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As measles outbreaks continue to emerge across the United States, service providers working with newcomer populations need accurate information and culturally appropriate resources. Understanding measles transmission, recognizing symptoms, and knowing vaccination recommendations are essential for protecting vulnerable communities. This blog post provides guidance and resources for service providers on measles—a highly contagious viral illness currently…
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Effective resource maps transform scattered information into accessible, actionable knowledge. They highlight appropriate services, reveal gaps in existing networks, and foster collaboration between organizations. For newcomer communities, these tools can be the difference between isolation and community, between barriers and opportunities. This blog explores six innovative mapping projects that are changing how communities connect with…
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming humanitarian aid and resettlement services. In this blog post, two experts in the field—Kimberly Mays, a Senior Program Officer for Digital Communications at Switchboard, and Kristy Crabtree, who works in digital innovation within the International Rescue Committee (IRC)’s Violence Prevention and Response Unit—shed light on AI’s potential in resettlement…
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Are you seeking materials in Haitian Creole to support clients you serve? Based on requests from providers, this blog post compiles Haitian Creole language resources to help service providers and clients navigate three crucial areas: personal safety, workplace rights, and health care access. Most resources listed below are available in additional newcomer languages as well.…
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The Switchboard Confluence event this fall brought together technology innovators and refugee resettlement professionals to reimagine newcomer support through emerging technologies. This blog post recaps some of the Confluence’s highlights—exploring how ethical tech integration, from artificial intelligence (AI) storytelling initiatives to virtual case management solutions, is transforming refugee services. This blog also includes video links…
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This blog post offers practical guidance on supporting Ukrainian newcomers in accessing culturally appropriate food in the United States. It covers topics such as familiar foods, grocery shopping, and finding ingredients for traditional Ukrainian dishes. You will gain an understanding of how to assist Ukrainian newcomers in maintaining their culinary traditions while adapting to their…
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Recruiting foster parents for unaccompanied refugee minors (URMs) can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding homes for teenagers. While many potential foster parents express a desire to foster, common apprehensions about welcoming teens into their homes may deter them from pursuing licensure. Hesitancy to foster teenagers is often due to a lack…
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Switchboard was an integral partner in the 2024 North American Refugee Health Conference (NARHC), which took place this August in Minneapolis, Minnesota, often called the “birthplace” of refugee health. The NARHC highlighted the importance of including voices with lived refugee experience; recognized refugee health as a global continuum; and emphasized cross-sector collaboration and international best…
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This blog by Switchboard’s partner, Refugee Housing Solutions, introduces the Housing Hub & Directory, a new online platform designed to support housing initiatives for newcomers across the U.S. This resource aims to connect resettlement agencies and other providers and individuals supporting ORR-eligible populations with vital housing information and services. The blog emphasizes the crucial role…
