From Left to Right: Volunteer Megan Gerrity, IIB’s Steve Bosco, IIB’s Dawn Obe
Being a good neighbor starts with a Welcome! Recently, community members came to the International Institute of Buffalo campus to paint “Welcome” signs in the languages of the New Americans we are currently resettling. The works of art will now proudly hang in newly-arrived refugee families’ homes. In fact, they will likely be the first thing they see when they open the door!
IIB provided the paint, brushes, canvases, language templates, and other supplies for the event, while painting teachers guided participants in creating their unique art pieces. Represented languages included Arabic, Burmese, Dari, Karibuni, Pashto, Somali, Tigrinya, and Ukrainian.
The event was part of Welcoming Week, an annual celebration to showcase communities striving to be more welcoming to immigrants and refugees.
Launched in 2012, Welcoming Week is an national campaign encompassing a network of organizations, local governments, and other institutions that come together to celebrate the diverse experiences, cultures, and values that help everyone feel a sense of belonging in their communities.
From resettlement to preparing New Americans to enter the workforce quickly and successfully, click here to learn how we diligently assist our newest neighbors in integrating into our community as they begin their new lives in Western New York.