Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Switchboard FAQ page! This page offers answers to commonly asked questions about our project and the services and learning resources we provide.
What is Switchboard?
Switchboard is a training and technical assistance project that helps build capacity across the resettlement community in the U.S. Switchboard offers a library of learning resources, an online evidence database, a range of self-paced e-learning courses, regular live learning opportunities, and on-demand technical assistance for refugee service providers and their community partners. Switchboard is implemented by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in collaboration with many partner organizations.
Who can benefit from Switchboard's services?
Switchboard is here to support those involved in refugee resettlement and integration in the U.S., including service providers, community partners, and refugees and other newcomers. Switchboard frequently serves resettlement agencies and affiliates, state agencies, community-based organizations, and other organizations working in the field.
How much does it cost to use Switchboard’s services?
Switchboard is fully funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). Training and capacity-building support are available to eligible organizations for free.
What resources are available in Switchboard's library?
The Switchboard library offers resources covering various topics related to refugee resettlement and integration services, including archived webinars, tools and toolkits, research evidence, and guidance materials. The library includes materials designed for service providers, newcomers, and community members. Most of the resources fit into the following categories:
Blogs: Informational articles, resource lists, and updates on current events.
E-learning courses: Short, self-paced courses that provide information, activities, and quizzes. Learners earn certificates after completing e-learning courses.
Guides: Educational resources sharing knowledge, strategies, tips, and case studies.
Podcasts: Audio recordings featuring guest interviews. The Switchboard podcast is available on most audio platforms including Apple and Spotify.
Toolkits and Tools: Practical resources like templates, checklists, forms, etc.
Webinars: Online seminars that engage in real-time discussions with subject matter experts.
Videos: Instructional multimedia including firsthand accounts and narratives from the resettlement community.
What research is available in Switchboard's database?
The database contains research studies and evidence summaries relevant to refugee resettlement and integration. To access the online evidence database, click here.
How can I stay updated about upcoming webinars and new resources posted to the Switchboard library?
We have a robust mailing list that we use to share our event schedule, a recap of the latest resources we’ve added to our library, new blog posts, and other announcements. You can sign up for our newsletter here.
What kind of support and guidance does Switchboard provide?
Switchboard offers a range of support services, including a library of learning resources, an online evidence database, self-paced e-learning courses, live learning opportunities, and on-demand technical assistance specifically for ORR-funded organizations.
What live learning opportunities are provided by Switchboard?
Switchboard organizes regular live learning opportunities, such as webinars and instructor-led certificate courses, where participants can engage with experts, share experiences, and learn about the latest developments in the field of refugee resettlement. Explore our events page to learn more.
How can I request on-demand technical assistance and professional training from Switchboard?
Switchboard provides free, personalized technical assistance including training, consultation, and more. For more, see our Technical Assistance page.
How does Switchboard work to ensure an equitable and inclusive approach to its training and technical assistance?
Switchboard is committed to cultivating welcoming and respectful learning environments for all learners. Our team members, consultants, and partners bring wide-ranging professional and personal experiences, including lived experiences as refugees and newcomers to the U.S. We actively seek out and apply these diverse perspectives when developing, reviewing, and delivering all Switchboard learning opportunities and resources. As Switchboard produces learning materials focused on specific communities or identities, we engage experts representing those communities to develop and review the content. Switchboard also hosts multiple Lived Experience Advisory Panels made up of people with personal or family experience of forced displacement. Panel members provide valuable insights about what refugee service providers and researchers need to know from the perspectives of people who have lived through the resettlement experience.
I’m overwhelmed! Can I contact someone at Switchboard for further guidance?
Yes, we’re here to help! Email us at SwitchboardTA@rescue.org with your questions.
What external resources does Switchboard link to from its website?
Switchboard provides links to useful learning resources from resettlement contexts around the country and the world. When sharing external learning resources, we prioritize materials produced by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and other federal agencies, and by trusted technical assistance projects that receive U.S. government funding. The external resources contained in our resource library represent the views and opinions of their original creators and do not represent the views or opinions of Switchboard.