Village Institute: Here to Stay
“Here to Stay”
This past May marked five years since the Village Institute first opened its doors to Colorado’s newcomer community.
The Village Institute continues to stand firmly beside newcomer youth and families, making it clear in no uncertain terms to their community that “you belong here”. To honor this ongoing commitment, the Village Institute is celebrating its anniversary with the theme "Here to Stay." Throughout the year, it will deepen its investment in its community, its team, and its work by:
Leveling up program impact
Opening an infant room that will welcome children as young as 6 weeks, and offering new continuing education opportunities for young adults, including certificates in Mental Health First Aid and Medical Interpreting.
Further growing its leaders
Supporting their lead preschool and toddler teachers to become Montessori-credentialed educators and staying at the forefront of education and mental health policy and practice through conference presentations and national partnerships like America’s Promise Alliance.
Deepening community ties
Leveraging community resources to best serve families through a new Case Management program and continuing to grow their ecosystem through powerful events and key partnerships.
You can read more about this work in their 2024 Report.
Here to Stay Family Support Fund
In addition to these efforts, the Village Institute also launched the Here to Stay Family Support Fund.
In this time of increased distress across communities, immigrant and refugee families are facing immense barriers, as rapidly shifting policies threaten their human rights. This fund will provide important resources to keep newcomer families safe, healthy, and supported in this moment through:
Emergency funds to help families cover critical needs like rent and food
Immigration legal support to help families protect their rights
Know Your Rights and Family Protection training for families and staff
Case management to help families access vital resources like employment support, housing, and healthcare; and
Security measures that help us reinforce The Village Institute’s space as a safe hub for kids and families.
