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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Many refugee service providers are asking how to best support clients from Afghanistan during this time of crisis. This blog post includes a few tips that may be helpful to program staff and leaders as they seek to care for clients and staff affected by the situation in Afghanistan.

In July 2021, the U.S. government initiated Operation Allies Refuge to quickly admit and resettle individuals from and in Afghanistan who have worked for, or on behalf of, the U.S. government. The resettlement network is working to support Afghan evacuees by providing available benefits and services, including those funded by ORR. This blog post lists resources you may find helpful in serving these clients, including resources in Dari and Pashto.

Protecting ourselves from overwhelming stress is similar to staying healthy in general: the familiar advice to eat right, exercise, and maintain good sleep patterns is important to follow. But resilience from stress is also reliant on nurturing our relationships, work life and hobbies, material safety, and values. This blog post offers some tips to help you do this.

In recognition of Pride, Switchboard has compiled this resource round-up. It includes materials designed for organizations and case managers serving LGBTQ+ clients, including how to create welcoming environments, ensure use of inclusive language, and address the unique needs of this population.

For over 20 years, we have observed World Refugee Day annually on June 20th. This year is no different as refugee resettlement agencies, allies, and community members continue to support and welcome refugees to the United States. As we approach World Refugee Day, we encourage you to pause and reflect on the lives and experiences of refugees. Ask yourself why you started the work that you do – reset your intentions and commitment to the work that you do each day to support refugees in their journey to rebuild their lives.