WHAT WE DO

ReEstablish Richmond connects our newest neighbors to life-building tools and resources, helping their integration to the community to be a positive and empowering experience. We work in collaboration with resettlement agencies, government services, faith communities, and volunteers. We are committed to creating greater opportunities for refugees and new immigrants in Richmond by enabling access to services that benefit their future.

The “we” here includes all of us — staff, volunteers, community partners, and donors — working to make Richmond a warmer, more welcoming place for everyone.

OUR IMPACT IN 2023

Our programs target the biggest barriers that newcomers face — transportation independence, wellness, economic empowerment, language learning, and isolation.

We are proud to share this year’s achievements:

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Our resettled neighbors sensitize us to issues far away and close to home. Their voices matter, adding value to the greater community. Refugees and immigrants bring creative energy, determination, a wealth of experience, and a depth of perspective to their new communities.

Just like you and me, our resettled neighbors are people with varied backgrounds, interests, skills, and experiences. Unlike most of us, refugees and immigrants have navigated loss many times over by the time they arrive here – only to find that they must start from zero yet again.

The long journey of resettlement begins when newcomers arrive and continues until they are fully integrated in the community. Doing it alone is possible, but having companions along the way increases the chances of success and allows room for everyone to consider and celebrate what it means to be seen, to be valued, to contribute, and to belong.

WHAT YOUR DONATION CAN DO

Sita, Anjuli, Lunasha*, and their families were stripped of their land and properties when they were exiled from Bhutan during an ethnic cleansing. They miss farming and growing food to feed themselves and their families.

$50 supports one week of community gardening, wellness group, or community yoga.

Pierre* has just been relocated to Richmond from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He needs to learn how to use public transportation in order to get to his job and navigate around the city. 

$75 connects newcomers to public transit orientations, increasing independence and aiding integration.

Fatima* is skilled at traditional Afghan embroidery and sewing by hand. She recently arrived in Richmond and needs a job so she can provide for her children. She wants to learn professional machine sewing techniques.

$150 empowers one woman to participate in sewing job-readiness training.

Zakria* has come from the Sudan in order to start a new life for himself and his family. He needs to prepare for the learner’s permit test. Once he passes the test, he also needs behind-the-wheel instruction and driving practice. 

$250 provides 5 behind-the-wheel driving lessons with a certified instructor.