RCRF #4: Employment of Newcomers in the United States
On June 7th, 2024, the Riverside County Refugee Forum, hosted by HMI, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the employment challenges and opportunities for newcomers in the United States at UC Riverside. The forum was established to enhance information-sharing, networking, resource mapping, and programmatic collaboration at the local district and county levels.
The event featured three distinguished speakers who provided valuable insights into the resources and programs available to refugees seeking employment.
Riverside County Office of Education
Gabriela Alvarado-Garcia, a Program Specialist from the Riverside County Office of Education, highlighted the county's initiatives aimed at helping job seekers, particularly through free childcare programs. These programs are available to those actively pursuing employment or earning below a certain income threshold. This resource is particularly beneficial for women in the newcomer community, as it removes a significant barrier to their ability to work and support their families. Alvarado-Garcia emphasized that access to childcare is crucial for enabling these women to pursue their careers and contribute economically.
Riverside County Workforce Development Department
Representatives from the Riverside County Workforce Development Department, Marisol Alaniz, Joselyn Garcia-Rojas, and Nicole Rand, shared their department's role in facilitating job access, education, training, and support services for job seekers. They stressed the importance of matching employers with skilled workers to maintain competitiveness in the global economy. Additionally, they mentioned that the department provides letters of support for newcomers enrolled in the America’s Job Centers of California, assisting them in securing both employment and housing.
Alliant Global Security Services
Hekmat Sherzad, Director of Business Development at Alliant Global Security Services, shared his personal and professional journey from Afghanistan to California. His inspiring story underscored the significant contributions that refugees can make when given the opportunity. Sherzad now employs over 100 people and actively hires refugees, praising them as genuine, caring, and hardworking employees. His success story serves as a powerful example of the positive impact that refugees can have on the local economy and community.
Key Learnings from the Forum
Initial Challenges to Employment
The forum also addressed the initial challenges refugees face when seeking employment in the U.S.:
Education and Language Proficiency: Many refugees arrive with low levels of education and limited English language skills.
Employment Rates and Earnings: Upon arrival, working-age refugees often experience low employment rates, high usage of benefits, and low earnings.
Positive Trends and Long-Term Improvement
Despite these early challenges, refugees tend to show significant improvements over time:
Employment Rates: Refugees achieve employment rates comparable to U.S.-born citizens after integration.
Income Growth: Over time, their income increases as they become more established.
Long-Term Employment: With more time in the U.S., refugees exhibit higher employment rates than their U.S.-born counterparts.
Overall Outcomes:
Although their earnings may remain lower, their overall outcomes improve significantly, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
The Riverside County Refugee Forum provided a comprehensive overview of the employment landscape for refugees, showcasing the resources and support systems available to them. Through collaborative efforts and continued support, refugees can overcome initial challenges and make meaningful contributions to their new communities. The insights shared by the speakers highlight the importance of providing adequate resources and opportunities to help newcomers succeed in the labor market, ultimately benefiting both the individuals and the broader community.
