Switchboard Blog
Switchboard’s blog posts offer a wide range of insights on the newcomer experience, including practical tips for navigating the resettlement process, resource lists tailored to community needs, case studies about relevant programs, engaging stories of successful integration, and more.
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How to Develop and Run a Community Advisory Board (CAB) Meeting
A community advisory board (CAB) is a group of individuals from a specific community who come together to provide guidance, feedback, and support to organizations, projects, or initiatives impacting their community. CABs are often useful in health care, education, research, and community development projects to ensure that the voices of community members are heard and…
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Imprinted Memories, September 1987 The strong smell of freshly sharpened pencils and lemon scented floors dominates as I cling to my father’s hand and hesitantly walk down a long hallway to my kindergarten class on the first day of school. When we arrive at the door, I hastily sit on his feet in a desperate…
- Madina Masumi
American Job Centers (AJCs) are a key component of the public workforce system. They provide a critical set of resources to jobseekers looking for employment or career growth. ORR-eligible populations often qualify as a priority service population in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs. Individuals enrolled in these programs may be able to access…
- Lauren Bowden
Quality assurance is a program management system focused on ensuring staff meet employment program guidelines efficiently. Successful quality assurance (QA) improves program outcomes without increasing burdens on staff. However, when faced with the many competing priorities of managing an employment program, implementing QA strategies can feel daunting. Below are six tips for strengthening quality assurance…
- Kiera McCarthy
Digital literacy skills may seem universal, especially if we consider all the places and situations where technology exists. Research has shown, however, that access to and use of technology vary based on demographics such as race, economic class, education, place of birth, etc. Through their work with refugee and newcomer clients, service providers can help…
- Jamie Harris
People who are new to the United States may have many adjustments to make. Getting acquainted with the U.S. financial system can be one important component that supports successful integration. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has a wealth of information that resettlement staff can share with refugee, immigrant, and migrant communities, to help people…
- Laura Schlachtmeyer
As Afghan newcomers begin to find their footing here in the United States, many will explore options for postsecondary and career and technical education. Accessing Title IV, Federal student aid through the U.S. Department of Education can offer critical assistance in financing these goals and aspirations. The Dear Colleague letter released by the U.S. Department…
- Lindsay Dusard