Inaugural Riverside County Refugee Forum Meeting
Fostering Unity and Empowerment: Recap of the Riverside County Refugee Forum Meeting
September 6, 2023
In a pivotal gathering of diverse minds and compassionate hearts, the Riverside County Refugee Forum (RCRF) made its historic debut on September 6, 2023. Hosted by Human Migration Institute, this momentous event brought together a multitude of stakeholders committed to supporting refugees and newcomers in Riverside County.
A Multifaceted Gathering
The meeting featured an lineup of 19 participants, each representing a crucial piece of the puzzle in aiding and uplifting refugee populations. From nonprofit organizations to educational institutions and government agencies, the diversity of participants underscored the shared commitment to making a positive impact.
Organizations Represented:
Human Migration Institute
CA Office of Refugee Resettlement
Uplift Charity
Sahaba Initiative
International Institute of Los Angeles
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
University of California — Riverside
Riverside Unified School District (RUSD)
Grove Community Church
Key Highlights
1. Setting the Stage
The meeting began with a warm welcome and opening remarks that emphasized the Riverside County Refugee Forum's (RCRF) impactful mission. At its core, RCRF aims to enhance collaboration and address the challenges faced by refugees and newcomers in Riverside County. This mission includes expanding access to critical services, supporting advocacy efforts, and finding innovative solutions to complex issues. In essence, RCRF's mission is a call for unity, inviting stakeholders to work together to create a more inclusive and compassionate Riverside County. But it's not just a mission; it's a promise of positive change and a testament to the power of community and compassion.
2. Understanding the Landscape
Dr. Selin Nielsen, President & Founder, gave insight into HMI’s global operations and the ever-increasing number of refugees and asylum seekers around the world. Teresa Hsu-Contreras, the Academic & Outreach Director, provided an insightful overview of the refugee situation in Riverside County. This included a deep dive into the current refugee demographics and the unique challenges they face. The presentation served as a foundation for the discussions that followed.
3. Connecting Voices and Visions
One of the most powerful aspects of the meeting was the roll call and introductions. Each participant had the opportunity to introduce their organization, its location, and their role within it. Additionally, they briefly shared the scope of services provided by their organization and the achievements and challenges encountered during the resettlement process. This exercise not only familiarized everyone with the diverse array of stakeholders present but also highlighted the shared commitment to the cause and connected people from around Southern California.
4. Solutions Through Collaboration
Resource sharing approaches were at the heart of the meeting's discussions. Participants brainstormed solutions to the challenges faced by HMI and other organizations after the initial intake of refugee families. Ideas flowed freely, reflecting the collective determination to find innovative and effective ways to support newcomers. Abdi, California State Refugee Coordinator gave insight into how to bolster refugee services and the forum’s impact through collaboration with County representatives, health organizations, and other local agencies.
5. Planning for the Future
Determining the next steps was crucial. The group engaged in a productive discussion about scheduling the next meeting, considering factors like frequency, timing, and communication on a more daily basis. Ensuring that the forum remains accessible and convenient for all stakeholders was a top priority. Thus, the RCRF decided to create a Whatsapp and Facebook group for resource and information sharing.
Conclusion
The inaugural meeting of the Riverside County Refugee Forum was not just an event; it was a significant step towards positive change. The commitment and enthusiasm of all participants promise a brighter future for refugees and newcomers in Riverside County. As the forum moves forward, the bridges built and the relationships forged will serve as the foundation for lasting impact and positive change.
