Goal: To assist recent immigrants in receiving the services they need to become integrated into the community

Overview: Historically, immigrants have contributed significantly to the vitality of our country but have often faced challenges in becoming accepted as community members. By encouraging newcomers to become fully integrated into community life, we strengthen the democratic process, enrich the economy, and enliven our experience of the world. Within the next decade, a significant number of California’s potential voters will be children of immigrant parents and will be in a position to influence public policy on both a local and national level. As immigrants in Marin gain economic self-sufficiency, their increased earning and purchasing power translates into a more resilient and competitive economy. Perhaps most importantly, appreciating and respecting the diversity of backgrounds from which we all come is critical to the health of our community.

Language and job skill acquisition is a key factor in the integration of immigrants. Offering quality, culturally competent, and consistent classes and training opportunities at times and places that are accessible for working families is essential for them to be effective. Ensuring that existing systems welcome and assist newcomers to obtain services— including healthcare, health insurance, housing, and legal assistance—is also critical to the successful integration of immigrants.

Under this goal, MCF will support projects that incorporate the following strategies:

Strategy 1: Provide immigrants with quality classes in English, job training, and other subjects

Request for Proposals sent: September 1, 2008

Deadline for Proposal: November 1, 2008

Interim Contact: Patti D'Angelo (program associate) by e-mail or at 415.464.2547