About: The New Mexico State University AIS Student Chapter began a volunteer effort at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic that evolved into a community service project. The ongoing conflict in Afghanistan has forced many individuals to flee their homes and seek refuge in the United States. Refugees who seek asylum in the United States face numerous hardships both before and after they get here. Many of these refugees have a strong desire to improve their lives and contribute to their new communities despite the difficulties they experience. Unfortunately, many Afghan refugees lack the basic skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's job market. Their lack of education and training puts them at a significant disadvantage and limits their ability to integrate into their new communities. Additionally, many are unfamiliar with the language, customs, and laws of the new country and as a result experience social isolation and discrimination. Through the New Mexico State University AIS Student Chapter program, they can protect and uphold basic human rights for individuals who are seeking asylum and furthermore, refugees can make significant contributions to their new communities by bringing diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences and help address the labor shortages that exist.
In the beginning, their project began as a small community service project. They heard of the many refugee families being brough into the Las Cruces, New Mexico community. In order to be recognized as a student organization, their university requires all student organizations to complete community service hours in and off campus. Because of this, they began by collecting furniture, toys, and daily essentials. This was the best option given that the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions were still in place in New Mexico and so they were limited in the way they could assist. A few volunteers helped with driving refugees to the stores and showing them how to shop. Some also assisted with basic translation services and teaching them basic English phrases. Many within the community knew of their efforts and a local newspaper wrote some articles about their program. In 2022, Rajaa Shindi, their AIS Student Chapter advisor, was contacted by W.K. Kellogg Foundation after reading one of these news articles. After meeting with her, they gifted her a $150,000 grant to continue providing education and job training to Afghan refugees. Since then, the program evolved and begun to offer more services for these families.
Their community service program, The Afghan Refugee Educational Supports, aims to provide refugees with access to quality education and training opportunities in the following areas:
- General Educational Development (GED): We currently offer GED classes to refugees who have not completed primary or secondary education or completed these in Afghanistan but because of the current situation, are not able to provide documentation that confirms completion. These classes will prepare them to take the GED exam and obtain a high school equivalency certificate, which is necessary to find employment.
- English as a second language (ESL): English is the primary language in the United States. Therefore, with the help of our translator, ESL student instructors and volunteers, we provide them English language classes to help them communicate effectively in their new communities and increase their employability.
- Computer Skills: Today, computer skills are essential for success in many fields. We will provide computer training classes to refugees to help them develop the skills they need to use technology effectively. Additionally, for those of college age, we are currently working on A+ certification program that will prepare them for the CompTIA certification.
- Financial Literacy: Financial literacy is essential for individuals to manage their finances effectively and make informed decision about their financial future. Additionally, many of the basic financial concepts that we grew up with as Americans, are not easy for them to understand. By providing this education, we are confident that they will make the right financial decisions to achieve financial stability and success. This will allow them to avoid falling into debt, bankruptcy, or other financial difficulties. They can also build savings, investment, and retirement funds, which can provide a safety net in times of financial hardship and a better future for their children.
- Entrepreneurship: Because Afghan culture has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on gender roles, many women have been raised with the expectation that their primary role is to take care of their children. This norm has restricted access to education and employment opportunities for many Afghan women. Through our entrepreneurship program, we wish to empower women to work and pursue their goals. The program hopes to help them gain independence, self-esteem, and accomplishment but most importantly the financial means to help support their families.
- Children’s Enrichment Program: Our program provides a safe and supervised environment for Afghan children. This program currently only provides basic childcare, social and emotional development. However, we are working on a model for it to include educational development so that children can learn new skills and develop knowledge in areas such as science, technology, arts, and sports.
Refugees who seek refuge in the United States face significant challenges. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that involves support from government agencies, community organizations, and individuals in their new communities. Our community service project although small, works to support them. By working together, we can help refugees overcome the many challenges they face and help them build new lives in the United States. Helping refugees in the United States aligns with American values of compassion, inclusion, and opportunity. By welcoming refugees, we can set a standard by demonstrating our commitment to these values and provide hope to individuals around the world who are seeking safety and security.
Speakers
- Yanin Sanchez
- Rajaa Shindi
AIS Student Chapter: New Mexico State University
Date/Time/Location: Saturday, April 1, 2023, Time, Location: FIU CBC 154