We have developed a series of ongoing programs based on input from our residents and by identifying unmet needs in Richmond’s newcomer communities. Our office also provides services to improve residents’ access to critical resources and overcome linguistic barriers. The following programs and services are provided by the OIRE free of charge to City residents.

Latino Youth After School Program and Mental Health Support: There programs are being hosted in partnership with NextUp, Boys and Girls Club, and the YWCA of Richmond. They are designed to fill the need of teens from immigrant backgrounds to explore their cultural roots and empower them to access education and employment opportunities towards high school education.

Entrepreneurship Academy for newcomer residents. Facilitate Money Smart Solutions program in Spanish and English for newcomer residents. Help them navigate through cultural and linguistic differences and to navigate business creation process.

Business Funding Workshops: A series of classes for small business owners to learn about sources of capital and types of loans available. Presented in Spanish and hosted by OIRE and the Department of Housing and Community Development.

Networking Group: We host a monthly meeting with regional non-profit and governmental partners serving the immigrant and refugee communities as an opportunity to meet and partner with other organizations and programs providing services to immigrant communities.

Civic Education for New Immigrants:  An orientation session designed to provide a broad perspective of the cultural differences on the daily life in this country.  

Interpreters Training: Facilitation of interpreters training for community members seeking professional development in that area.