This February, we celebrated Black History Month by learning more about the Black history of Maine. Starting with a journey along the Portland Freedom Trail, our exploration led us to the Abyssinian Meeting House, a symbol of resilience built in 1828 by freed African Americans. Recognized as an Underground Railroad site, it also once served as both a church and a segregated school before falling into disrepair.

Uncovering powerful stories like the one behind the Abyssinian Meetinghouse, was a revelation to many of our team. Both New Mainers and long-time residents of Maine alike, left the Portland Freedom Trail with a greater understanding of our State’s rich Black history.

AFCON Event

pictured above, IWC and Gateway staff posing for a picture with Janet Mills, and our relations specialist Firdaws, pictured with Dora Mills.

As some got ready for the super bowl, here at IWC we got ready for AFCON! In collaboration with Gateway Community Services, we held a watch party at Gateway's Portland location. Turn out was great, with even both of the Mills sisters, Janet and Dora, in attendance.

A special thank you to Portland Food Co-op and Food For All Services for their amazing snack donations!

Lewiston Civics Engagment Event

2024 is going to be a big year for civic engagement and it is important to learn what rights are afforded to everyone regardless of citizenship status and age.

That's why, in collaboration with Maine Youth Power (MYP) and Community Organizing Alliance (COA), we held a panel discussion in Lewiston 0n the 8th, with Lewiston City Council Member, Scott Harriman; and Former City Council Member and COA's Executive Director, Safiya Khalid.

Attendees talked with the panelists about ways to get more involved in local government and how to ensure their voices and concerns are heard. We were inspired by the meaningful conversations had that night and eager to keep them going in our community.

If you missed the event, keep an eye on our socials, we will be holding a similar event in Portland in March on the 21st. Stay tuned!

A Word from Our Volunteer and Intern Program Manger

Our Volunteer and Internship program is being redeveloped! Shukria Wiar has moved from the Women Lead Program to take on this new venture and we’re aiming to have everything finalized within the next few months. 

We appreciate the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to supporting the immigrant community through your desire to volunteer with us, and we’re very excited to provide meaningful opportunities for you to welcome and support New Mainers. 

We are eager to welcome you as a valuable member of our volunteer team. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Shukria:  shukria@welcomeimmigrant.org

Small Business Start Up for New Mainers

Our first “Small Business Start-Up for New Mainers” class was a resounding success! Presented in partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA), participants delved into an insightful two-hour workshop where they covered topics such as market research, legal entities, financing, and creating business plans. Attendees also discovered the array of official SBA Resource Partners and how to access free local mentors and advisors.

Women Lead Information Sessions

We’re excited to share that we still have a few slots open for the next cohort of our “Women Lead: Job Readiness” program. We are holding information sessions for immigrant women in the Greater Portland area who are interested in gaining valuable work experience and community connections. 

Applicants are required to attend an in-person or virtual information session. If none of our scheduled sessions work for you, please contact us using the information below. We will be happy to schedule a time to connect.

Interested in working with our next cohort? Apply to become a Women Lead Mentor.

✉️ womenlead@welcomeimmigrant.org

📲 207-870-7673

If none of these time work for you, don't hesitate to reach out to the Women Lead team at womenlead@welcomeimmigrant.org or 207-870-7673 to book an in-person or virtual appointment that works for you.

iEnglish Lab

Our iEnglish lab is expanding its language learning offerings with the introduction of two new Conversation Classes.

Our “First Class” sessions will provide a welcoming environment for individuals just beginning their English language journey, fostering confidence and fluency from day one.

For those seeking to take their language skills to the next level, our "Advanced Club" offers an opportunity for more advanced conversation with native and fluent English speakers in a relaxed setting right here at our center. 

View our current job openings and information regarding how to apply.

IWC has started searching for a director of our amazing Women Lead team! Head over here to learn more.

We're looking for another ESOL Teacher! Find more details here.

Your Contribution Matters

Your support transforms lives at the Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center! Your donation empowers us to provide essential resources like English language classes, job training, and civic initiatives, enabling immigrants to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our community. Join us in building a more inclusive and vibrant community by donating today. Thank you for being a part of our mission.