Laughter in the Fields: A Day with the Children of Torbalı
In Torbalı, the children have so little—no shoes, few clothes, no toys—yet what they share with us is immense: laughter, trust, and a generosity that humbles. One boy quietly gave away his only snack to the toddler in his care; a young girl, now too old for playtime, drew a house with a garden—a home she’s never had; a toddler learned a spider song in a language he didn’t know, but understood through joy. These small, luminous moments remind us why HMI is committed to building something lasting: a safe classroom, steady teaching, and a place where hope can take root.
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Double Header of Support: Resource Round‑Up + Digital Skills for Afghan Families
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, HMI hosted a dynamic “double header” of workshops that reflected our holistic approach to newcomer integration. The day featured two powerful sessions: a morning workshop focused on career pathway resources for refugees and an afternoon session tailored to the digital literacy needs of Afghan newcomer families.
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First-Ever Inland Empire Refugee Forum: A New Chapter for Collaboration
On September 17th, the first-ever Inland Empire Refugee Forum was held at UCR, uniting Riverside and San Bernardino County forums into one collaborative platform. Hosted by Human Migration Institute and Lifting Humanity, the forum brought together community partners, state and county representatives, and international students to highlight newcomer challenges, share stories, and set a vision for the future of refugee support in the Inland Empire.
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HMI Intensive Program: A Community-based Classroom, Where "Impossible" Becomes "Possible" and "Accessible”
For years, newcomer women from Afghanistan were told they couldn't go to school. Their education was taken from them under various circumstances. Imagine what it looks like when they finally get the chance to start over and go to school?
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Peace Day 2025: Coming Together for Unity and Hope
On September 20th, HMI hosted Peace Day 2025 at the Arlington Library alongside ICFOR and the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity. The event brought together community members and partners to celebrate peace, unity, and hope, with the support of local organizations dedicated to justice and compassion.
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Guest Blog: How Migrant Workers Can Find Real Support Inside Their Communities
In this guest blog, we explore the resilience of migrant workers and how they find strength and support within their communities. Their stories remind us that solidarity and compassion are powerful tools in building belonging and hope.
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Voices of HMI: The People Behind The Mission
Get ready to meet the faces behind HMI in our new interview series, "Voices of HMI." Through these interviews, we'll introduce you to the diverse and dedicated individuals who make up our team.
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Opening Doors Through Education: HMI x MYA Collaboration
HMI has partnered with Motivated Youth Academy (MYA) to provide refugee youth and adults with the opportunity to earn a U.S. high school diploma, gain valuable skills, and prepare for work and higher education. Together, we are opening doors for newcomers to build brighter futures in their new home.
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“Know Your Rights” Listening Session with CHIRLA
HMI hosted a powerful and informative Know Your Rights listening session for our Afghan Newcomer Support Program (ANSP) clients at Crest Community Church in Riverside. This special gathering brought together newly enrolled and prospective ANSP participants, giving them the opportunity to connect with the ANSP team, meet their case manager, and learn more about the program’s resources and services in and around Riverside County.
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HMI celebrates World Refugee Day, honoring this year’s theme: “Love Over Fear”
Human Migration Institute hosted its annual World Refugee Day event on June 21, 2025,
bringing together community members, public officials and volunteers under this year’s theme:
“Love Over Fear,” which emphasized choosing support over silence for refugees.
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