About
We are a group of Idaho Falls residents that have come together to create a local Welcome Corps sponsor group. We operate under the United States Welcome Corps guidelines.
The Welcome Corps, a program by the government of the United States, is “a service opportunity for Americans in communities across the country to make a lasting impact by helping refugees build new lives in the United States.” The Welcome Corps works with the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) to help LEGAL refugees get situated in the US. In other words, USRAP can either use a resettlement agency or a local Welcome Corps sponsor group (like us!) to help resettle legal refugees in the United States.
There are many requirements to be a Welcome Corps sponsor group, and though we are just starting as a sponsor group, we are working hard to make sure we comply with all of the standards and laws. We are being mentored by the former sponsor circle non-profit organization, Idaho Falls Bridge Builders (IFBB). IFBB is a nationally recognized non-profit, so if there is a donation that requires a tax write-off, we can potentially route the donation through them for that to happen. Just let us know.
If you have any questions, contact us at our email welcomecorpsif@gmail.com.
“Migrants and refugees… do not arrive empty-handed. They bring their courage, skills, energy and aspirations, as well as the treasures of their own cultures; and in this way, they enrich the lives of the nations that receive them. We also come to see the creativity, tenacity and spirit of sacrifice of the countless individuals, families and communities around the world who open their doors and hearts to migrants and refugees, even where resources are scarce.”
– Pope Francis, World Day of Peace, 2018
Continuing the amazing work of the two sponsor circles and the mission of Bridge Builders Idaho Falls.
FAQs
What is a refugee and how are they different than an immigrant?
A refugee is normally an immigrant, however, not all immigrants are refugees. An immigrant is “a person who comes to a country to take up permanent residence.” (Merriam-Webster) A refugee is a person who cannot return to their home country because their lives are in danger. You can read more about the United States’ definition of a refugee by going to section 101(a)(42) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
What are the benefits of supporting resettling refugees?
There are many benefits! First off, as a private citizen, you get to learn more about different cultures and gain more empathy as you meet others in different situations. For the refugees, the benefits are endless! Having a local connection to the community they’re moving to helps them feel more comfortable and can help them get situated much more quickly. You are also helping them know they are loved and taken care of.
What if I do not have money but would like to help?
There are many opportunities and ways to help, and more will become available in the future. You can follow us on Facebook, learn about the Welcome Corps, share our posts, and share information with your friends and family. We will eventually need items donated for the family, like clothes, furniture, and school supplies. We will also need help integrating the family into Idaho Falls by giving them tours of the city, introducing them to community events, and helping them finds jobs and get enrolled in school. We will keep our site updated with service opportunities as they become available.
Is Welcome Corps a federal program?
Yes! You can visit the national Welcome Corps page online at www.welcomecorps.org to learn more. “The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program is the legal pathway through which individuals who are refugees under U.S. law may be resettled to the United States and then become permanent residents and, if they choose, later apply to become U.S. citizens… The Welcome Corps makes it possible for Americans and lawful permanent residents to sponsor people for approval and resettlement as refugees through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.”
