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VDSS Office of New Americans
REFUGEE AND IMMIGRANT SERVICES
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National Citizenship Day
On September 17, communities across Virginia come together to recognize National Citizenship Day. This day honors the signing of the U.S. Constitution and celebrates the contributions of new citizens. Across the Commonwealth, special naturalization ceremonies will take place at historic sites such as Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest in Lynchburg. We celebrate the journeys, achievements, and diversity of Virginia’s new Americans, and we encourage everyone to take part in events and learning opportunities that foster civic engagement and inclusion. If you are interested in learning more about available resources, please reach out to us for connections to statewide programs, guidance, and support. For official information and resources about U.S. citizenship and Citizenship Day, you can also visit the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center.
To learn more about naturalization trends nationwide, see Migration Policy Institute, Naturalized Citizens in the United States. For Virginia specific guidance on naturalization and citizenship history, visit the Library of Virginia, Naturalization Records for Virginias.
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Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month Across Virginia
From September 15 to October 15, Virginia celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the vibrant Hispanic and Latino communities that make up nearly 12% of the state’s population. Their contributions from business and cuisine to music, art, and leadership, continue to shape our communities. The U.S. Census projects this population will double in the next 20 years.
Join the celebration by attending events, supporting Latino-owned businesses, and exploring Hispanic culture across Virginia. One highlight is the fourth annual ¡Virginia Fiesta!, hosted by Radio Poder 1380AM in Henrico on September 20, where community members from across Virginia are invited to experience the joy and diversity of Latino/Hispanic cultures. We also encourage organizations and community leaders hosting Hispanic Heritage Month events to share them with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for inclusion on their statewide events page honoring this celebration.
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Welcoming Week 2025: Building Belonging Through Stories
Welcoming America’s Welcoming Week 2025 is just weeks away, taking place September 12–21. This year’s theme, “Stories We Share,” highlights how storytelling helps build trust, connection, and a sense of belonging in our communities. The comprehensive Welcoming Week toolkit packed with templates, tips, and resources in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and German is now available to support organizations, event hosts, and community members. Whether you are planning a large community gathering or a small storytelling circle, innovative ideas and ready-to-use materials are provided to help everyone participate. Don’t forget to add your event to the official Welcoming Week map and join this global movement to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
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Free Training: Cultural Perspectives on Youth Mental Health
We are pleased to invite you to a virtual training series, “Cultural Perspectives on Youth Mental Health (Part One and Two).” Led by Freshta Taeb, with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and the VDSS Office of New Americans, this two-part training explores how cultural background shapes youth experiences and responses to mental health. Part One introduces key concepts, while Part Two covers case studies and practical strategies. Choose sessions on September 2 & 3 or September 9 & 10, from 10AM–12PM.
Choose from the following options:
September 2 and 3, 2025 | 10 AM - 12PM | Register here
September 9 and 10, 2025 | 10 AM - 12PM | Register here
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Annual Roanoke Mental Health Conference
on Trauma-Informed Care and Prevention for Refugees and Immigrants
Don’t miss your chance! register now for the Annual Roanoke Mental Health Conference on Trauma-Informed Care and Prevention for Refugees and Immigrants. The event takes place in person on September 15, 2025, from 10AM to 4PM at the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, 110 Shenandoah Ave NE, Roanoke, VA 24016. Join professionals and community members dedicated to supporting refugee and immigrant mental health for a day of connection, learning, and collaboration. This free, in-person event is open to the public. Reserve your spot today by completing the registration form! Check out the agenda.
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Calling All Bilingual Staff in Behavioral Health: Free Interpreter Training Opportunities
Bilingual staff in behavioral health who provide interpretation support have the opportunity to build their skills through upcoming Free Bilingual Staff Interpreter (BSI) Trainings. These three-day sessions focus on interpreting in behavioral health settings, equipping participants to strengthen language access within their organizations. Priority acceptance will be given to Virginia Community Services Board staff, with trainings set for November and December. A language proficiency test is required, with support available if needed. Deadline: October 3, 2025. Download flyer.
November 4 – 6, 2025 | Prince William County, VA | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Register here
December 9 – 11, 2025 | Richmond, VA | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Register here
| | Promoting your organization's services, educational webinars, or community events? We would love to help spread the word! Please reach out to liliana.penalver@dss.virginia.gov to share your initiatives and ensure that Virginians have access to valuable resources and events. Together, we can enhance awareness of resources and strengthen support for New Americans in Virginia! | | | Federal, State, and Local News | | |
Policy Updates and News
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Applications Now open for the Gateways Growth Challenge: Call for Community Leaders
Applications are now open for Round VI of the Gateways for Growth Challenge (G4G), a year-long, no-cost opportunity designed to help local leaders strengthen immigrant inclusion through hands-on support from Welcoming America and the American Immigration Council. Selected communities will receive tailored local research on immigrants’ economic and demographic contributions, customized technical assistance and coaching, and access to a peer learning community to share insights and strategies. An FAQ webinar will be held on Wednesday, September 3, from 2–3PM ET for those interested in learning more. Applications are due by Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 5PM local time, and early submissions are encouraged.
Learn more about G4G Round VI HERE. Register for the FAQ Webinar HERE.
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Free Workshop: Use AI to Plan Your Business – Hosted by Immigrant Rising
Immigrant Rising is hosting a free, beginner-friendly workshop in Spanish to help you work smarter in your business or entrepreneurial venture. Participants will learn how to use AI, including ChatGPT, to draft a business plan, receive step-by-step guidance on key sections, and join live demonstrations and practical exercises. Whether starting out or growing your business, this interactive session will provide valuable tools and confidence. The workshop takes place on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET. - Virtual
Register Here.
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Resource Highlight: Sacred Heart’s Immigration Legal Resources Guide
Sacred Heart Center, through its Immigration Legal Services Program (ILSP), has created a comprehensive guide available in English and Spanish, that connects individuals and families with essential resources from trusted nonprofit organizations nationwide and in Virginia. The guide includes consular services, resources for U.S. citizens, understanding government documents, finding legal help, avoiding fraud, and more. Regularly updated and carefully curated, this resource empowers the community to navigate complex immigration issues with confidence. The information is for educational purposes only; for legal matters, readers are encouraged to consult an attorney or a Department of Justice accredited representative.
To access the information guide, click here. Available QR code flyer in English and Spanish.
| | | Trainings and Community Resources | | TRAININGS, WORKSHOPS & CONFERENCES | |
Cultural Perspectives on Youth Mental Health
DBHDS & ONA
Sep 2 and 3, 10 AM to 12 PM Virtual
Junta para Inquilinos de Vivienda
(online tenant workshop)
VPLC
Sep 4, Virtual - En Español
De-escalation in Practice: Strategies for Supporting Newcomers Experiencing Crises
Switchboard
Sep 4, 1 PM - Virtual
The Future of Equal Opportunity
The Aspen Institute
Sep 4, 2 PM - Virtual
The Paradox of Cross-National Mental Disorders Vulnerability
SD of Health Network
Sep 4, 12 PM - Virtual
Afghan Cultural Awareness and Support for Survivors of Combat Trauma
Afghans Americans for Biden
Sep 4 and 5, 12 PM - Virtual
Cruel Summer: Changes to Immigrant Eligibility for Benefits
PIF Coalition
Sep 8, 1 PM - Virtual
Cultural Perspectives on Youth Mental Health
DBHDS & ONA
Sep 9 and 10, 10 AM to 12 PM Virtual
Planning for Success: Are Immigration Legal Services the Right Fit for Your Organization?
CLINIC
Sep 9, 2 PM - Virtual
Immigration Briefings
ILRC
Sep 10 and 24, 1 PM - Virtual
*Provide overviews of new announcements and policies.
Welcoming Economies 101: Building Inclusive Communities for Growth
Welcoming America
Sept 10, 2:30 PM - Virtual
Immigrant Access to Health Insurance and Nutrition Assistance
VPLC & EnrollVA
Sep 10, 1 PM - Virtual
Medicaid FAMIS Workshop
Virginia Health Care Foundation
Sept 11, 10 AM to 3 PM - Virtual
Considerations for Nutrition and Growth in Newcomer Families
Center of Excellence in Newcomer
Sep 11, 12 PM - Virtual
Considering the context of Immigration -Related Trauma & Grief among Latine Communities
El Futuro
Sep 12, 12 PM - Virtual
Impact of Trauma Exposure on Professionals
Greater Richmond Scan
Sep 16, 1 PM - Virtual
Virginia Community Health Worker Association Monthly Meeting
VCHWA
Sep 16, 2 PM - Virtual
Disability In Latinx Communities
MDRC
Sep17, 12 PM- Virtual
PCC4 Refugees Conversations to Support Refugees
PCC4Refugees
Sep 18, 8:30 PM - Virtual
Workshop One: Immigration 101
Community Solutions
Sep 22, 6 PM - Virtual
2025 Greater Hampton Roads Population Health Summit
M. Foscue Brock Institute
Sep 24, 8:30 AM - Virtual
6th National Immigration Summit
Children at Risk
Sep 25, (new date) 1 PM - Virtual
*For those who previously register in May 15, this event changes the date to Sep 25.
Trauma-Informed Supervision
Greater Richmond Scan
Sep 25, 9 AM to 11 AM - Virtual
*For supervisors.
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Refugee Advocacy Lab and IRAP have unveiled “The Red State Playbook: Opportunities for Refugee and Immigrant Inclusion and Workforce Engagement,” a valuable resource guide showcasing policy efforts that foster refugee and immigrant integration. This guide highlights effective strategies and proven initiatives that support workforce participation and community inclusion, offering advocates a practical roadmap to advance their work, even in challenging political landscapes. Designed to inspire collaboration and innovation, it is an essential tool for anyone seeking to promote inclusive policies for refugees and immigrants across the country. Request Policy Guide HERE.
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SettleIn is a resource aimed at supporting newcomers in the United States with reliable, personalized information—now available in Haitian Creole and French, in addition to Dari, Pashto, Ukrainian, Russian, Spanish, and English. The Settle In team responds to direct messages, both by text and voice, on subjects such as job searches, eligibility for public benefits, and locating community resources, typically within one business day. This multilingual support enables newly arrived individuals to receive accurate answers quickly, helping them understand the systems and opportunities that exist as they settle in. By expanding their language offerings, Settle In ensures that more newcomers can access guidance tailored to their needs and cultural context, fostering confidence and smoother integration into American life. Learn more here.
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The American Immigration Council recently published a new toolkit examining practical strategies to scale legal response efforts at the state and local levels, with examples from several states, ranging from asylum application clinics to worksite raids response. The toolkit also offers advice on potential partners, service delivery models, technology, structural considerations, and funding strategies and can be accessed here.
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The Appleseed Network has put together the Deportation Preparation Manual for Immigrant Families, a free, step-by-step guide designed to help families plan ahead in the event of deportation. It offers practical guidance on protecting your children and finances, as well as understanding and exercising your rights. The manual is available in both English and Spanish.
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The New Mexico State University School of Social Work has launched a self-paced online course : “Supporting Immigrant Children and Families in the Child Welfare System: Challenges & Best Practices for Child Welfare Agencies & Practitioners.” Anyone can create a free account on their website and enroll in this course at no cost. The training addresses the unique needs of immigrant children and families in the child welfare system and shares successful practices and strategies from across the United States. Participants who complete the course can also earn three free cultural social work CEUs from NMSU. Available flyer HERE.
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The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP) has developed a comprehensive guide for congregations, offering faith-based resources, study tools, and clear explanations of legal rights. This tool is designed to help churches and people of faith provide meaningful support to immigrants in their neighborhoods. VICPP encourages everyone to share the guide with other faith leaders and congregations. Download the resource Welcoming and Supporting Immigrants: guide for congregations (English) and (Spanish).
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The National Partnership for New Americans and Just Solutions created a simple guide called “Know Your Rights During Disasters: FEMA & Immigration Enforcement.” It explains what immigrants need to know to safely get help during disasters, including information about their rights and how to access support without fear.
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The Hispanic/Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence announces the new Vamos por Más Empowerment and Leadership Academy 2025–2026. Up to 10 professionals serving Hispanic and Latino communities will be selected for this 11-month career development program, offering direct mentorship, leadership training, and partnership opportunities in behavioral health. Healthcare providers are invited to apply for this unique opportunity to grow and strengthen their skills in serving Latino communities. Applications are open until Sep 12, 2025. For more information here. Download Application form.
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Click on each region for a listing of cultural festivals, mobile clinics, information sessions, job fairs, networking meetings and other local events: | |
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