Building a relationship with your State Refugee Office (SRO) and State Refugee Coordinator (SRC) is an important strategy for the long-term sustainability of your ethnic community-based organization (ECBO) and for strengthening its ability to carry out its mission. This relationship is also critical for the success of refugee resettlement in your state. ECBOs are closest to the needs, concerns, and realities of newcomers in local communities and can share that expertise to inform statewide resettlement plans and programs. ECBOs can serve as trusted bridges, helping resettlement agencies and state governments carry out effective resettlement and integration. This information guide provides an overview of the roles of SROs and SRCs, the benefits of and challenges to ECBOs establishing relationships with them, and practical steps and tips for building these relationships.
