Resources

We recently published a blog post on Virtual Job Readiness Resources for Clients With Online Access. But how are agencies continuing job readiness training when participants don’t have access to technology or lack digital literacy skills? This post includes job readiness resources for supporting clients without online access and/or digital skills, informed by strategies refugee service providers have begun implementing nationwide.

The COVID-19 crisis is having a profound impact on the way we live and work. During this time, many service providers are working remotely to provide job readiness training to clients in addition to helping some clients apply for unemployment insurance and other benefits. But what about job development? Should you be helping clients obtain employment during this time, and if so, what does job development look right now?

Employers should assess their workplaces for factors that might increase the risk of spreading COVID-19 and develop a health and safety plan using the prevention guidance in this tip sheet. Employers should also reach out frequently to state and/or local public health officials and occupational safety and health professionals to get relevant and up-to-date information …

Meat and Poultry Processing Facilities: Key Strategies to Prevent COVID-19 Infection among Employees Read More »

While some of our clients have experienced difficult layoffs or furloughs, others are continuing to serve our communities through their daily work. Essential workers range from child care providers and healthcare professionals to grocery store staff and meatpacking employees. How can we support the wellbeing of clients who must work?

As we continue practicing social distancing amid COVID-19, you may be wondering how to stay in touch with your clients and continue job readiness training. While you may not be able to resume your job readiness classes in person for some time, there are many online resources you can share to keep your clients engaged and focused on their career paths. This blog post provides suggestions tailored towards clients who have computers or smartphones, internet access, and higher levels of digital literacy.

For employment programs that serve refugees and asylees, helping clients become self-sufficient and work towards personal career goals is always the main objective. However, in the course of providing employment services to refugees and asylees, you may encounter situations where it is beneficial for your clients to apply for unemployment insurance. While this process varies …

Supporting Clients During Times of Economic Hardship: Accessing Unemployment Insurance Benefits Read More »

On March 27, 2020, Congress passed the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act). To ensure refugees, asylees, and the organizations that serve them understand the available benefits, Refugee Council USA, We Are All America and National Partnership for New Americans hosted a webinar.    In addition to providing direct support to individuals and families, the CARES Act …

CARES Act: How Does Pandemic Relief Impact Me As A Refugee? Read More »

While resettlement staff may have the option of working from home, many clients do not. Many industries in which our clients work have been profoundly impacted by COVID-19. Unfortunately, for many clients, this will mean reduced hours or even loss of employment. As clients face challenges related to employment and reach out to you with questions, we want to help you be prepared. Here are some resources to get you started on helping clients to understand their rights and access federal and state benefits, as well as information about other non-governmental resources.

In the summer of 2019, Switchboard interviewed established refugee youth in Atlanta, GA; Hyattsville, MD; and Lancaster, PA. The goal of this video is to elevate the voices of refugee youth, giving them the opportunity to reflect on their early experiences in the U.S. and a platform to share their perspective and advice with service …

Adjusting to Life & Work in the U.S. – Perspectives from Refugee Youth Read More »

In the summer of 2019, Switchboard interviewed established clients in Atlanta, GA; Hyattsville, MD; and Lancaster, PA, including refugees, asylees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders. The goal of this video is to elevate the voices of previously served clients, giving them the opportunity to reflect on their early experiences in the U.S. and a …

Adjusting to Life & Work in the U.S. – Advice from Clients to Case Managers Read More »