Our Mission
The mission of Welcoming City is to create a welcoming and inclusive community in Central Ohio through advocacy, education, and community engagement. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we strive to break down barriers, foster understanding, and celebrate the rich diversity that newcomers bring to our region. Our commitment is to create a space of belonging where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to contribute to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Central Ohio. We are dedicated to providing a supportive environment that empowers individuals and families to thrive through building bridges of compassion and collaboration, fostering a community that embraces the strength found in unity and diversity.
Our Collaboration
Welcoming City is a department of US Together.
US Together was founded in 2003 in response to the needs in refugee communities, by refugees. US Together is a state-wide organization with offices in Columbus, Cleveland and Toledo, OH.
US Together Goals
The overarching goal of US Together is to accelerate all aspects of immigrant and refugee integration into our community by providing comprehensive and culturally responsive services. We aim to create a welcoming environment offering programs that support social, civic, emotional/psychological, linguistic, and economic integration.
These goals are being achieved through attaining the following objectives:
Facilitating access to essential resources through comprehensive benefit coordination, referrals, and linkages to culturally appropriate services. Providing culturally sensitive mental health support services, raising awareness about mental health issues within immigrant and welcoming communities, and fostering a supportive environment that promotes resilience and well-being.
Promoting language proficiency and economic integration through English as Second Language and financial literacy education.
Facilitating access to employment opportunities, education, and skill/credential recognition.
Accessing resources to start and grow businesses; facilitating utilization of banking, credit, loans, and financial resources; and providing opportunities to build professional networks.
Facilitating the civic integration of immigrants and refugees via holistic approach that addresses key features of civic engagement and inclusion.
Our Impact
Immigrant Integration
Central Ohio’s Plan for Welcoming Immigrants and Refugees
Welcoming City is actively progressing in the implementation of Central Ohio’s Plan for Welcoming Immigrants and Refugees, building upon three decades of immigrant integration efforts in the region. Our community is eagerly looking forward to witnessing the fruition of this plan, which promises to usher in positive changes, opportunities, and improved access to services and resources for all.
Economic Development
Our Actions During COVID
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Welcoming City remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Central Ohio community. Our team collaborated with local small businesses to produce and distribute masks, particularly targeting immigrant and refugee populations who may face barriers to accessing protective gear. Additionally, we spearheaded economic development initiatives to bolster organizations and implemented measures to safeguard the well-being of our community.
Medications Plan
Communications Pilot