The CWS “Double It” Challenge

Generous community members have pledged $20,000 to match donations given to three key CWS initiatives here in the Triangle dollar for dollar:

  • Employment Preparation ESL Course
  • Immigration Legal Services
  • Community Gardening

Please help us in making the most of this opportunity!  Consider giving to one of these initiatives before June 30th, knowing that lead donors will be doubling your impact.  And don’t stop with giving – be sure to pass this opportunity along to your friends!  Join us in demonstrating our joy that these brave, victorious families are beginning lives of hope and peace in our community.  For more information, visit our “Double It” Challenge document.

Volunteer Spotlight: Carey Cabrera

“Enriching the lives of refugees,
                     one after-school commitment at a time.” 
What compels a high-school senior with numerous commitments and obligations to serve faithfully every week helping refugees build resumes and complete job applications? In the words of Carey, a senior at Durham School of the Arts, “I love being a part of something so much bigger than myself and being able to help in a small way.”  Encouraged by her mom, Carey attended Volunteer Orientation and quickly became involved with helping our Employment Team prepare refugees for jobs. Week after week Carey comes in with a smile on her face working patiently to help refugees work on resumes and fill out applications.  In her words, “I enjoy meeting people from all over the world and learning about their different experiences and cultures.”

Carey’s commitment to service is a tremendous asset for our office. Her presence is inspiring and energizing to staff members who know how valuable it is when community members, no matter their age, embrace new refugee arrivals who now call Durham home. We are encouraged by all of our volunteers and thankful for their time, energy, and willingness to support the newest members of our society!

If you would like to become a volunteer we encourage you to come to one of our Volunteer Orientations and learn more about opportunities to serve!

Our next orientation is Monday, March 5th from 5:30-6:30.  Sign up here.

February Newsletter

View our February newsletter here!

Is a Green Card Even Green?

Q. Is a Green Card Green?

A. Some green cards are pink. Some are an off white color with a bit of green on them. And the very newest ones, which USCIS began issuing in May, 2010, have the most green seen on a so-called “green card” since the mid-1950’s, when “Permanent Resident Cards,” as the documents are officially known, began being issued. The ‘50’s version was actually green,  hence the nickname. Here’s a picture of the redesigned card:

Q. Where Can a Refugee Get Help Applying for Her Green Card?
Church World Service offers BIA Recognized immigration legal services for refugees seeking assistance with applying for their green cards, as well as citizenship and family reunification. Call today to schedule an appointment: 919-680-4310

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult with a BIA Accredited Representative or an attorney specializing in immigration law prior to making any application for immigration benefits.

January Newsletter

View our January newsletter here!

2011 CWS Year in Review

As 2011 draws to a close, we remember all of the people, events and stories that have made the past year so rich. Please join us in celebrating lives changed as you peruse this Year in Review.  CWS 2011 Year in Review

Giving Thanks

Click here to view our one page letter of  gratitude to you this week of Thanksgiving.