Global Refuge

We are thrilled to announce that Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) will now be known to the world & the people we serve as “Global Refuge.” 🌍🎉 New name, same mission. We invite you to learn more: globalrefuge.org/identity

Is your company interested in becoming a Preferred Refugee Employer? We invite you to learn more! ⤵ globalrefuge.org/PRE

The value of work extends to all people, including immigrants and asylum seekers. Supporting newcomers with deep roots in our communities means supporting their ability to obtain safe and dignified livelihoods. Global Refuge has joined 100+ faith organizations in calling on the administration to resolve the work permit processing delays that prevent families and businesses from thriving. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ewCJfhCQ

FACT: Research has proven time and again that there is no link between immigration and increased crime rates and that immigrants are 60% less likely to be incarcerated than their native‐born peers. In fact, some studies show that increased immigration results in lower crime rates—meaning immigrants make the United States safer for all. Disinformation and hateful rhetoric about immigrants and refugees are everywhere…on social media, in political speeches, on the news, and beyond. At Global Refuge, we know the truth: immigrants and refugees make the United States a better place. Not only is welcoming newcomers the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do. Don’t believe what you read in the comments. Get the facts. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eizRCFdH

Global Refuge affiliate Lutheran Services Florida has shifted its Sarasota driving program into high gear! 🚦🚗 This summer, clients have taken behind-the-wheel practical driving lessons, completed required courses for new drivers, obtained driver permits, and acquired their Florida driver’s licenses. This in-person, bilingual program is vital for newly arrived immigrants and refugees, helping them understand local traffic laws and access opportunities. In fact, four clients are already on the road with their own transportation – thanks to a car donated by a loyal supporter – and they carpool to work together!

Looking for a career at a mission-driven organization? Global Refuge is #hiring! We pride ourselves on offering a supportive, engaging work environment with a diverse group of committed colleagues passionate about making a difference in the lives of the people we serve. Visit globalrefuge.org/careers to learn more and apply today!

When Matt Jordan successfully turned around a struggling vehicle protection manufacturer, he made a substantial profit when the company sold. And he saw the windfall as the perfect opportunity to help others. “I knew I wanted to do something worthwhile,” he said. “I did my research and found that Global Refuge was an organization I want to stand behind.” Over the past year, Matt has increased his commitment to Global Refuge, joining the President’s Council and facilitating key sponsorship opportunities. “I’ve found that many people are way off the mark with their ideas of immigrants and refugees in our country,” he said. “I want to use my resources to combat those negative narratives and help where I can.” The work of welcome is made possible by people like Matt! Whether you are an individual, a community, company, or a faith-based group, there are many ways to welcome and walk with newcomers. Get involved at https://lnkd.in/edhgqcGi 💙

FACT: The vast majority of immigrants who cross the border immediately present themselves to authorities to seek asylum. There is virtually no reason for someone seeking asylum to simultaneously be attempting to smuggle in drugs, thereby threatening their asylum status. What’s more, according to the U.S. Sentencing Commission, 89% of those convicted for smuggling fentanyl into the U.S. in 2022 were U.S. citizens. Disinformation and hateful rhetoric about immigrants and refugees are everywhere…on social media, in political speeches, on the news, and beyond. At Global Refuge, we know the truth: immigrants and refugees make the United States a better place. Not only is welcoming newcomers the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do. Don’t believe what you read in the comments. Get the facts. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eizRCFdH

This week marks three years since the Taliban takeover of #Afghanistan. Since 2021, more than 80,000 at-risk Afghans have been relocated to the U.S.— but for many of them, there is still no pathway to permanent citizenship. Global Refuge is working to support and integrate recently arrived Afghans and continues advocating for those left behind. But there is still more work to be done. We celebrate those who have been able to come to the U.S. for safety and we continue our call for elected officials to support tangible solutions for our #AfghanAllies, including the passage of the #AfghanAdjustmentAct upon return from August recess. 📣 Learn more: https://bit.ly/4cfXZIg 📣 Call on your reps to support the Afghan Adjustment Act: https://bit.ly/4cfXZIg #Advocate4Afghans #ThreeYearsTooLong

Incredible news to share today. Global Refuge is announcing a two-year, $1 million grant from Truist Foundation to support New American Lending — our economic empowerment initiative focused on empowering immigrant communities. Truly grateful. #TruistFoundation Full press release below: https://bit.ly/3SIPIp1