Specialized helper: we will train you! Our clients often need help navigating resources, filling in a housing application, understanding a piece of mail, creating a resume, or just knowing the steps to getting a driver’s license.  As a specialist, you do not have to make a long-term time commitment.  You are welcome to offer your skills within your availability.

In-Kind donations drive: would you like to organize a one-time or recurring donations drive?  Does your church or small group have a heart for refugees?  Talk to us about ideas for in-kind donations.  You can collect diapers, winter coats, cleaning supplies, or other household goods.  Welcome COS will help distribute your items to refugee families in the community.  We may also contact Lutheran Family Services to identify needed items for newly arrived refugee families, and can help you organize the giving after your donation drive.

Do you speak English? Do you have an hour or two free weekly or biweekly? If so, you’d be a great English Language Partner! Our staff will go with you the first time you meet your new refugee friend and will complete an English assessment. We will then set you up with a simple curriculum, and you’ll be ready to go!

Culinary Connections empowers newly arrived refugee and immigrant women by facilitating food handling certification, developing fundamental business skills and providing paid opportunities to share their culinary heritage. Through Culinary Connections, we foster cross-cultural understanding, build meaningful connections, and create pathways toward economic independence for women. Volunteers help on cook day, as well as with grocery shopping and food handler courses.

Visit us at www.culinaryconnections.us to learn more and get involved.

Other: do you have a new idea?  Welcome COS focuses on creative ideas for refugee services. If you have an idea, contact us and let’s see if we can make it happen!