Extended Case Management Services Among Resettled Refugees in the United States

Year Published:

Abstract

Purpose: Economic self-sufficiency is the priority of U.S. refugee resettlement policy, and opportunities for economic integration are shaped by social service contexts. While reception and placement services are typically provided for 3–8 months, extended case management (ECM) involves 2 years of services. This study examines associations between economic integration outcomes—employment, income source, income, and employment satisfaction—and exposure to ECM. Method: We compare 243 resettled refugees, including those resettled in Salt Lake City, Utah who received ECM and those resettled in Tucson, Arizona without ECM. Results: Participants at both sites experienced increased employment and income over time. Participants in Salt Lake City initially experienced higher rates of employment, income, and employment satisfaction than those in Tucson. Employment satisfaction increased more rapidly in Salt Lake City. Being female and older age were also associated with poorer outcomes. Discussion: Findings point to the benefits of ECM services in promoting economic integration.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

What strategies improve the outcomes of refugee women in employment programs?

This evidence summary, authored by Switchboard, summarizes the state of available evidence regarding strategies to improve the employment rates of refugee women in employment programs. Limited but growing evidence shows positive impacts of national policies on the employment rates of refugees. Canada’s Educational Credential Assessment requirement for economic migrants and private sponsorship programs has shown…

About this study

AGE: Adults

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Paid

HOST COUNTRY: United States

HOST COUNTRY INCOME: High

INTERVENTION DURATION: 2 years

INTERVENTION: Extended case management (ECM)

OUTCOME AREA: Employment>Employment Outcomes

POPULATION: Refugees

REGION OF ORIGIN OF PARTICIPANT(S): Multiple Regions

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Moderate

TYPE OF STUDY: Impact evaluation

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2022

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