Workshops
Session 1 - Monday, February 28th - 10:15-11:30 am
Session 2 - Monday, February 28th - 1:15-2:30 pm
Session 3 - Monday, February 28th - 2:45-4:00 pm
Session 4 - Tuesday, March 1st - 10:30-11:45 am
Session 5 - Tuesday, March 1st - 1:15-2:30 pm
Workshop presenter bios can be viewed here.
Session 2 - Monday, February 28th - 1:15-2:30 pm
Session 3 - Monday, February 28th - 2:45-4:00 pm
Session 4 - Tuesday, March 1st - 10:30-11:45 am
Session 5 - Tuesday, March 1st - 1:15-2:30 pm
Workshop presenter bios can be viewed here.
Session 1
❧ Licensing and Career Pathways for Foreign-trained Professionals
Travis Thompson, Professional Pathways Integration
Room: Hatch Ballroom
This workshop will discuss an interdisciplinary approach to navigating the licensing and career pathways for foreign-trained professionals and will provide social service agencies, employers, job seekers, and community stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to assist foreign-trained professionals in reclaiming their careers in the U.S. In this workshop, we will address all areas of the licensing and the career pathways process; what credential evaluations are needed for which professions; educational deficiencies and how they can be completed; English language acquisition needs; career pathway opportunities; national and state licensing board requirements; and the barriers, gaps, and solutions for navigating these processes.
Target Audiences: Employment specialists, case managers, social service providers, job seekers
❧ Building Inclusive Campuses: The Every Campus A Refuge Model
Dr. Diya Abdo, Every Campus A Refuge
Walid Mosarsaa, Every Campus A Refuge
Room: Simplot AC
In this workshop, attendees will learn how colleges and universities can partner with refugee resettlement agencies to host refugees on campus grounds and support them in their resettlement, thus maximizing use of campus resources to fill important gaps in service. Specifically, attendees will learn about the Every Campus A Refuge (ECAR) model. Founded at Guilford College (North Carolina) in 2015, ECAR revolutionizes refugee resettlement by partnering colleges and universities with local resettlement agencies to provide a softer landing and more dignified beginning for refugees. The flagship ECAR chapter at Guilford College has already hosted 66 refugees, 29 of them children. ECAR has been adopted by several colleges and universities of varied sizes. The ECAR model also engages students in related credit-bearing curricular and co-curricular high-impact practices that that fill gaps in service, advocate for refugees and immigrants, and build inclusivity and capacity in refugee integration work.
Target Audiences: Higher education, refugee resettlement agencies, educators
❧ Mutual Restoration and Healing Through Trauma-informed Care
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Katie Best, Saint Alphonsus Global Health Clinic
Elizabeth Rutten-Turner, Saint Alphonsus Global Health Clinic
Susan Manika, Saint Alphonsus Global Health Clinic & Idaho Office for Refugees
Room: Simplot BD
Zoom Room: Zoom Room #1
Working with trauma survivors can be challenging and emotionally intense. This workshop will explain common trauma responses and assist participants with gaining insight into these reactions and feelings. The information received will expand compassion for self and others and improve care outcomes.
Target Audiences: Counselors, case managers, teachers, and anyone who works with trauma survivors
❧ Hate Has No Place Here
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
U.S. Attorney Rafael Gonzalez
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
U.S. Attorney Rafael Gonzalez will review available federal criminal remedies to address hate and bias crimes and incidences. The presentation will focus on the anatomy of hate crimes and how bias and prejudicial attitudes, left unchecked, can lead to more serious criminal activity. The presentation also examines intervals in the bias continuum, educating participants about applicable federal laws and their limits, introducing ways to discuss sensitive topics, and reporting hate incidents. Mr. Gonzalez will reaffirm the Department of Justice’s commitment to using every tool at their disposal to address unlawful acts of hate.
Target Audiences: Case managers, activists
❧ Licensing and Career Pathways for Foreign-trained Professionals
Travis Thompson, Professional Pathways Integration
Room: Hatch Ballroom
This workshop will discuss an interdisciplinary approach to navigating the licensing and career pathways for foreign-trained professionals and will provide social service agencies, employers, job seekers, and community stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to assist foreign-trained professionals in reclaiming their careers in the U.S. In this workshop, we will address all areas of the licensing and the career pathways process; what credential evaluations are needed for which professions; educational deficiencies and how they can be completed; English language acquisition needs; career pathway opportunities; national and state licensing board requirements; and the barriers, gaps, and solutions for navigating these processes.
Target Audiences: Employment specialists, case managers, social service providers, job seekers
❧ Building Inclusive Campuses: The Every Campus A Refuge Model
Dr. Diya Abdo, Every Campus A Refuge
Walid Mosarsaa, Every Campus A Refuge
Room: Simplot AC
In this workshop, attendees will learn how colleges and universities can partner with refugee resettlement agencies to host refugees on campus grounds and support them in their resettlement, thus maximizing use of campus resources to fill important gaps in service. Specifically, attendees will learn about the Every Campus A Refuge (ECAR) model. Founded at Guilford College (North Carolina) in 2015, ECAR revolutionizes refugee resettlement by partnering colleges and universities with local resettlement agencies to provide a softer landing and more dignified beginning for refugees. The flagship ECAR chapter at Guilford College has already hosted 66 refugees, 29 of them children. ECAR has been adopted by several colleges and universities of varied sizes. The ECAR model also engages students in related credit-bearing curricular and co-curricular high-impact practices that that fill gaps in service, advocate for refugees and immigrants, and build inclusivity and capacity in refugee integration work.
Target Audiences: Higher education, refugee resettlement agencies, educators
❧ Mutual Restoration and Healing Through Trauma-informed Care
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Katie Best, Saint Alphonsus Global Health Clinic
Elizabeth Rutten-Turner, Saint Alphonsus Global Health Clinic
Susan Manika, Saint Alphonsus Global Health Clinic & Idaho Office for Refugees
Room: Simplot BD
Zoom Room: Zoom Room #1
Working with trauma survivors can be challenging and emotionally intense. This workshop will explain common trauma responses and assist participants with gaining insight into these reactions and feelings. The information received will expand compassion for self and others and improve care outcomes.
Target Audiences: Counselors, case managers, teachers, and anyone who works with trauma survivors
❧ Hate Has No Place Here
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
U.S. Attorney Rafael Gonzalez
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
U.S. Attorney Rafael Gonzalez will review available federal criminal remedies to address hate and bias crimes and incidences. The presentation will focus on the anatomy of hate crimes and how bias and prejudicial attitudes, left unchecked, can lead to more serious criminal activity. The presentation also examines intervals in the bias continuum, educating participants about applicable federal laws and their limits, introducing ways to discuss sensitive topics, and reporting hate incidents. Mr. Gonzalez will reaffirm the Department of Justice’s commitment to using every tool at their disposal to address unlawful acts of hate.
Target Audiences: Case managers, activists
Session 2
❧ Working with Police
Officer Jessica Knarr, Boise Police Department refugee liaison
Room: Simplot AC
This session will provide information and education about interacting with local law enforcement. A better understanding of how and why the police do their jobs a certain way can help manage expectations and reduce fear and uncertainty when vulnerable populations find themselves interacting with officers. Officer Knarr feels strongly that empowering our minority, marginalized or vulnerable populations, as well as those who support them, can help break down barriers between them and their police. Strong relationships between community members and their police create and maintain safer communities.
Target Audiences: Refugees and those who support them. The average citizen will also benefit from this information.
❧ Engaging with the Digital World: Teaching Digital Skills to ELLs of All Levels*
*this workshop will be repeated virtually in Session #3
Holly Bazarski, College of Western Idaho
Amy Daniels, College of Western Idaho
Room: Hatch Ballroom
In this workshop, teachers will explore tools and strategies for developing digital skills curriculum for all levels of English language learners. We will be using Google applications such as Chrome, Gmail, Drive, Slides, Docs, and Sheets.
Through the use of the applications students learn critical digital skills including mouse and keyboard usage, email etiquette, computer navigation, file management and more. All of these skills are taught in a life and work context.
Target Audiences: Teachers and educators of English language learners of all levels
❧Educate, Integrate, Advocate. How Stories Bridge the Gap Between "Us" and "Them"
Robin Peterson, Their Story is Our Story
Brandi Kilmer, Their Story is Our Story
Sherianne Schow, Their Story is Our Story
Room: Simplot BD
The overarching goal of Their Story is Our Story is to preserve and share incredible stories of triumph and inclusion that help close the gap between "us" and "them." Their Story Is Our Story’s three pillars of Educate, Integrate and Advocate allow for discussion and exploration of how to best understand the refugee crisis, close proximity between locals and newcomers, and how to become advocates for our new friends. During this workshop our three presenters will utilize first-person refugee stories intending to change the perception and reception of refugees worldwide. Attendees will gain access
to our elementary and secondary education curriculum, view the Global Refugee Archive, which houses hundreds of first-person refugee interviews, photography and artwork. Our presenters will given access to catalogs of stories and action items on how best to advocate for refugee neighbors and help them integrate into our communities.
Target Audiences: Educators, community builders, all who are interested in becoming part of welcoming newcomers and refugees
❧Refugee 101
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Rabiou Manzo, Global Gardens - Idaho Office for Refugees
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Learn about what it means to have refugee status, the different agencies involved in the refugee resettlement process, the vetting process, and about the federal, state, and local laws and policies that support the refugee resettlement program.
Target Audiences: Anyone interested in learning more about the resettlement process
❧ Working with Police
Officer Jessica Knarr, Boise Police Department refugee liaison
Room: Simplot AC
This session will provide information and education about interacting with local law enforcement. A better understanding of how and why the police do their jobs a certain way can help manage expectations and reduce fear and uncertainty when vulnerable populations find themselves interacting with officers. Officer Knarr feels strongly that empowering our minority, marginalized or vulnerable populations, as well as those who support them, can help break down barriers between them and their police. Strong relationships between community members and their police create and maintain safer communities.
Target Audiences: Refugees and those who support them. The average citizen will also benefit from this information.
❧ Engaging with the Digital World: Teaching Digital Skills to ELLs of All Levels*
*this workshop will be repeated virtually in Session #3
Holly Bazarski, College of Western Idaho
Amy Daniels, College of Western Idaho
Room: Hatch Ballroom
In this workshop, teachers will explore tools and strategies for developing digital skills curriculum for all levels of English language learners. We will be using Google applications such as Chrome, Gmail, Drive, Slides, Docs, and Sheets.
Through the use of the applications students learn critical digital skills including mouse and keyboard usage, email etiquette, computer navigation, file management and more. All of these skills are taught in a life and work context.
Target Audiences: Teachers and educators of English language learners of all levels
❧Educate, Integrate, Advocate. How Stories Bridge the Gap Between "Us" and "Them"
Robin Peterson, Their Story is Our Story
Brandi Kilmer, Their Story is Our Story
Sherianne Schow, Their Story is Our Story
Room: Simplot BD
The overarching goal of Their Story is Our Story is to preserve and share incredible stories of triumph and inclusion that help close the gap between "us" and "them." Their Story Is Our Story’s three pillars of Educate, Integrate and Advocate allow for discussion and exploration of how to best understand the refugee crisis, close proximity between locals and newcomers, and how to become advocates for our new friends. During this workshop our three presenters will utilize first-person refugee stories intending to change the perception and reception of refugees worldwide. Attendees will gain access
to our elementary and secondary education curriculum, view the Global Refugee Archive, which houses hundreds of first-person refugee interviews, photography and artwork. Our presenters will given access to catalogs of stories and action items on how best to advocate for refugee neighbors and help them integrate into our communities.
Target Audiences: Educators, community builders, all who are interested in becoming part of welcoming newcomers and refugees
❧Refugee 101
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Rabiou Manzo, Global Gardens - Idaho Office for Refugees
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Learn about what it means to have refugee status, the different agencies involved in the refugee resettlement process, the vetting process, and about the federal, state, and local laws and policies that support the refugee resettlement program.
Target Audiences: Anyone interested in learning more about the resettlement process
Session 3
❧Empowerment and Belonging in the Workplace
Dan Houston, One Refugee
Gaby Thomason, One Refugee
Room: Simplot AC
Refugees have been resettled in Idaho since 1972. In 2022, a lot of progress has been made in assisting individuals from refugee backgrounds move forward into meaningful careers and connect to the community as a whole. With current culture shifting toward increased inclusivity, many employers and individuals are wondering how they can be involved in helping to shift the landscape. In this presentation, 1R (One Refugee) staff and scholars will share experiences, best practices, and potential action items on how you can contribute to a more empathetic, inclusive, and empowered workplace.
Target Audiences: Professionals, employers, community members
❧Teacher’s Guide to “Liminal, a refugee memoir”
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Liyah Babayan, Author, Curriculum developer for "Liminal, a refugee memoir"
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
Liyah’s book “Liminal, a refugee memoir” is taught in two gen-ed courses, an Honors Course at the College of Southern Idaho, and into high school studies. In a nation of immigrants, every graduating student ought to know what it means to be a stateless person and be able to identify the social, political, environmental, financial or other global crises which contribute to the displacement of humanity worldwide. Immigrants, asylees and refugees are integrated into the very fabric of American society, and regardless of what career path a student chooses — whether it be in education, medical field, government, law enforcement, social work or small business owner — chances are they will interact with people from such backgrounds. Liyah will discuss the “Teacher’s Guide to “Liminal, a Refugee Memoir” for educators and how it can be applied in schools.
Target Audiences: Secondary and post-secondary educators, program developers, grant writers, social workers, resettlement & case workers, guidance school counselors, faith group leaders
❧Healing Trauma Through Music and Dance
Kathy Tidwell, Tidwell Social Work Services & Consulting Inc.
Dayo Ayodele, Global Lounge
Courtney Morgan, Tidwell Social Work Services
Room: Hatch Ballroom
Please join us for a presentation on our School-Based Therapeutic Music and Movement Program, co-facilitated by Tidwell Social Work Services and Global Lounge. Participants will learn how traumatic experiences impact the brain, how music and movement support optimal trauma processing, and how collaborating to create art in an affirming, multicultural environment can be transformational for children and adults alike. Most importantly, workshop participants will engage with our musician-facilitators in small groups to experience firsthand the joy and fun that our student participants experience in their schools.
Target Audiences: Teachers, school counselors/social workers, principals, etc. in elementary, middle school and high schools, clinical social workers, counselors, and other clinical staff, musicians interested in music therapy
❧Building Inclusive Democracy and Countering Bigotry in 2022
Kate Bitz, Western States Center
Room: Simplot BD
This workshop will give participants an overview of some of the major players in organized bigotry and anti-democracy movements in Idaho and beyond. We’ll learn about the tactics bigoted groups use in their attempts to harm immigrant justice and refugee resettlement work, then collaboratively map out the ways participants have seen these dynamics at work in their communities. Using participants’ examples, we will then discuss how to effectively organize for justice in the current context, presenting new tools from Western States Center and equipping participants with next steps to take action.
Target Audiences: Community members who want to gain a deeper understanding of organized bigotry and have an in-depth discussion of ways to make a difference, whether in their capacity as staff at an organization or in their personal capacity.
❧ VIRTUAL SESSION ONLY: Engaging with the Digital World: Teaching Digital Skills to ELLs of All Levels*
Holly Bazarski, College of Western Idaho
Amy Daniels, College of Western Idaho
Virtual Room: Zoom Room #1
In this workshop, teachers will explore tools and strategies for developing digital skills curriculum for all levels of English language learners. We will be using Google applications such as Chrome, Gmail, Drive, Slides, Docs, and Sheets.
Through the use of the applications students learn critical digital skills including mouse and keyboard usage, email etiquette, computer navigation, file management and more. All of these skills are taught in a life and work context.
Target Audiences: Teachers and educators of English language learners of all levels
❧Empowerment and Belonging in the Workplace
Dan Houston, One Refugee
Gaby Thomason, One Refugee
Room: Simplot AC
Refugees have been resettled in Idaho since 1972. In 2022, a lot of progress has been made in assisting individuals from refugee backgrounds move forward into meaningful careers and connect to the community as a whole. With current culture shifting toward increased inclusivity, many employers and individuals are wondering how they can be involved in helping to shift the landscape. In this presentation, 1R (One Refugee) staff and scholars will share experiences, best practices, and potential action items on how you can contribute to a more empathetic, inclusive, and empowered workplace.
Target Audiences: Professionals, employers, community members
❧Teacher’s Guide to “Liminal, a refugee memoir”
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Liyah Babayan, Author, Curriculum developer for "Liminal, a refugee memoir"
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
Liyah’s book “Liminal, a refugee memoir” is taught in two gen-ed courses, an Honors Course at the College of Southern Idaho, and into high school studies. In a nation of immigrants, every graduating student ought to know what it means to be a stateless person and be able to identify the social, political, environmental, financial or other global crises which contribute to the displacement of humanity worldwide. Immigrants, asylees and refugees are integrated into the very fabric of American society, and regardless of what career path a student chooses — whether it be in education, medical field, government, law enforcement, social work or small business owner — chances are they will interact with people from such backgrounds. Liyah will discuss the “Teacher’s Guide to “Liminal, a Refugee Memoir” for educators and how it can be applied in schools.
Target Audiences: Secondary and post-secondary educators, program developers, grant writers, social workers, resettlement & case workers, guidance school counselors, faith group leaders
❧Healing Trauma Through Music and Dance
Kathy Tidwell, Tidwell Social Work Services & Consulting Inc.
Dayo Ayodele, Global Lounge
Courtney Morgan, Tidwell Social Work Services
Room: Hatch Ballroom
Please join us for a presentation on our School-Based Therapeutic Music and Movement Program, co-facilitated by Tidwell Social Work Services and Global Lounge. Participants will learn how traumatic experiences impact the brain, how music and movement support optimal trauma processing, and how collaborating to create art in an affirming, multicultural environment can be transformational for children and adults alike. Most importantly, workshop participants will engage with our musician-facilitators in small groups to experience firsthand the joy and fun that our student participants experience in their schools.
Target Audiences: Teachers, school counselors/social workers, principals, etc. in elementary, middle school and high schools, clinical social workers, counselors, and other clinical staff, musicians interested in music therapy
❧Building Inclusive Democracy and Countering Bigotry in 2022
Kate Bitz, Western States Center
Room: Simplot BD
This workshop will give participants an overview of some of the major players in organized bigotry and anti-democracy movements in Idaho and beyond. We’ll learn about the tactics bigoted groups use in their attempts to harm immigrant justice and refugee resettlement work, then collaboratively map out the ways participants have seen these dynamics at work in their communities. Using participants’ examples, we will then discuss how to effectively organize for justice in the current context, presenting new tools from Western States Center and equipping participants with next steps to take action.
Target Audiences: Community members who want to gain a deeper understanding of organized bigotry and have an in-depth discussion of ways to make a difference, whether in their capacity as staff at an organization or in their personal capacity.
❧ VIRTUAL SESSION ONLY: Engaging with the Digital World: Teaching Digital Skills to ELLs of All Levels*
Holly Bazarski, College of Western Idaho
Amy Daniels, College of Western Idaho
Virtual Room: Zoom Room #1
In this workshop, teachers will explore tools and strategies for developing digital skills curriculum for all levels of English language learners. We will be using Google applications such as Chrome, Gmail, Drive, Slides, Docs, and Sheets.
Through the use of the applications students learn critical digital skills including mouse and keyboard usage, email etiquette, computer navigation, file management and more. All of these skills are taught in a life and work context.
Target Audiences: Teachers and educators of English language learners of all levels
Session 4
❧New Americans in the Classroom: A Workshop for Educators
Christina Bruce-Bennion, Idaho Office for Refugees
Laura Armstrong, Glocal Community Partners
George Safari, KA Health Services
Sara Skinner, Independent Consultant
Room: Hatch Ballroom
“I have to try to improve my life by going to school every day. ... Education is very important for human beings. It helps improve their lives, help their kids, and encourage their family or friends.” - Rukia Jimjimo, originally from Ethiopia
In this interactive workshop, participants will get a glimpse inside the refugee youth experience and will build skills for teaching new Americans. What is it like to be forced to leave your homeland? How does it feel to enter a classroom in a strange language, in a strange land? And how do we, as teachers, help immigrant students feel welcome and learn?
Presented by the Neighbors United Education Taskforce, a coalition of organizations working to support Boiseans with a refugee background in their education and learning.
Target Audiences: Educators who have students with a refugee background in their classrooms and students seeking education degrees., School Staff, Volunteers, Tutors
❧Spices, Vinegars, Cookbooks - Growing Together Through the Alaskan Winter
Keenan Plate, Catholic Social Services
Dusabe Dungane, Catholic Social Services
Room: Simplot AC
This workshop will present on the multifaceted successes of Catholic Social Services' Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services program, Fresh International Gardens (FIG) located in Anchorage, Alaska. In recent years, FIG has expanded beyond summer vegetable sales to include a line of products such as herb-infused vinegar, cookbook, spice blends, and seed packets. These products have allowed for income-generating opportunities for clients outside of the summer growing season and given them an opportunity to come together and work during the isolating winter months. And more importantly, the products have served as an avenue to reach other community members who may not have any exposure to Alaska's only refugee resettlement program.
Target Audiences: Service providers and resettlement organizations with the capacity to support client-led entrepreneurial opportunities. Community members interested in entrepreneurial opportunities or those interested in supporting businesses with community-minded values
❧Legal Options for Afghans Evacuees in the U.S.
Yasmin Aguilar, Agency for New Americans
Kristin Ruether, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Sophie McKinley, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Mohammad Irfan, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Room: Simplot BD
Presenters will review the legal status of Afghans who were evacuated to the U.S. following the fall of the Afghan government and their options for obtaining permanent status in the U.S. Participants will gain a better understanding of these options.
Target Audiences: Agency staff, Afghans
❧Driving in Idaho: Driver's Licenses and Traffic Laws
Jeremy Wickard, Idaho Transportation Department
Tera Kendrick, Idaho Transportation Department
Officer Jessica Knarr, Boise Police Department
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
The Idaho Transportation Department will cover the steps and information needed to acquire an Idaho identification or driving credential and how this process looks for those who arrive as refugees. They'll discuss the driver's license office experience such as what to expect, what to bring, and how to utilize translation services. An explanation of the knowledge and skills tests that are required for a driver's license will be provided as well.
Officer Knarr from the Boise Police Department will discuss Idaho traffic laws, the most common violations, and how to respond when you are involved a traffic stop or a traffic collision.
Target Audiences: Those with a refugee background, case managers, employment specialists, mentors, and others who work with refugees
❧New Americans in the Classroom: A Workshop for Educators
Christina Bruce-Bennion, Idaho Office for Refugees
Laura Armstrong, Glocal Community Partners
George Safari, KA Health Services
Sara Skinner, Independent Consultant
Room: Hatch Ballroom
“I have to try to improve my life by going to school every day. ... Education is very important for human beings. It helps improve their lives, help their kids, and encourage their family or friends.” - Rukia Jimjimo, originally from Ethiopia
In this interactive workshop, participants will get a glimpse inside the refugee youth experience and will build skills for teaching new Americans. What is it like to be forced to leave your homeland? How does it feel to enter a classroom in a strange language, in a strange land? And how do we, as teachers, help immigrant students feel welcome and learn?
Presented by the Neighbors United Education Taskforce, a coalition of organizations working to support Boiseans with a refugee background in their education and learning.
Target Audiences: Educators who have students with a refugee background in their classrooms and students seeking education degrees., School Staff, Volunteers, Tutors
❧Spices, Vinegars, Cookbooks - Growing Together Through the Alaskan Winter
Keenan Plate, Catholic Social Services
Dusabe Dungane, Catholic Social Services
Room: Simplot AC
This workshop will present on the multifaceted successes of Catholic Social Services' Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services program, Fresh International Gardens (FIG) located in Anchorage, Alaska. In recent years, FIG has expanded beyond summer vegetable sales to include a line of products such as herb-infused vinegar, cookbook, spice blends, and seed packets. These products have allowed for income-generating opportunities for clients outside of the summer growing season and given them an opportunity to come together and work during the isolating winter months. And more importantly, the products have served as an avenue to reach other community members who may not have any exposure to Alaska's only refugee resettlement program.
Target Audiences: Service providers and resettlement organizations with the capacity to support client-led entrepreneurial opportunities. Community members interested in entrepreneurial opportunities or those interested in supporting businesses with community-minded values
❧Legal Options for Afghans Evacuees in the U.S.
Yasmin Aguilar, Agency for New Americans
Kristin Ruether, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Sophie McKinley, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Mohammad Irfan, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Room: Simplot BD
Presenters will review the legal status of Afghans who were evacuated to the U.S. following the fall of the Afghan government and their options for obtaining permanent status in the U.S. Participants will gain a better understanding of these options.
Target Audiences: Agency staff, Afghans
❧Driving in Idaho: Driver's Licenses and Traffic Laws
- Getting an Idaho Driver’s License or Identification Card
- Understanding Traffic Laws and Handling Traffic Accidents
Jeremy Wickard, Idaho Transportation Department
Tera Kendrick, Idaho Transportation Department
Officer Jessica Knarr, Boise Police Department
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
The Idaho Transportation Department will cover the steps and information needed to acquire an Idaho identification or driving credential and how this process looks for those who arrive as refugees. They'll discuss the driver's license office experience such as what to expect, what to bring, and how to utilize translation services. An explanation of the knowledge and skills tests that are required for a driver's license will be provided as well.
Officer Knarr from the Boise Police Department will discuss Idaho traffic laws, the most common violations, and how to respond when you are involved a traffic stop or a traffic collision.
Target Audiences: Those with a refugee background, case managers, employment specialists, mentors, and others who work with refugees
Session 5
❧Improving Trust and Communication in a Digital World
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Judy Thorne, Idaho State University, Idaho AIDS Education and Training Center
Holly Beech, Idaho Office for Refugees
Chelsea Jordan and Devon Jancin, English Language Center
Georgette Bisoka, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Hannah Habineza, Refugee Medical Case Manager, FMRI
Room: Simplot BD
Zoom Room: Zoom Room #1
Over the past two years, we've seen how important it is (and how difficult it can be) to stay connected digitally. Outreach and trust-building efforts often aren't as effective online as they are in person. We saw this early on in the pandemic, when contact tracing among Treasure Valley refugee and immigrant populations proved to be a challenging endeavor. In response, the Idaho Office for Refugees and the Idaho AIDS Education and Training Center partnered to develop training videos and YouTube clips to circulate among refugee communities and contact tracers.
At our workshop session, we'll talk about the challenges and successes of this endeavor and the lessons learned. We'll also hear from panelists who work in refugee resettlement, healthcare, English language training and social media outreach to discuss best practices for moving forward and staying connected in a digital world. We hope to inspire more grassroots efforts for reaching new community members and to problem-solve other barriers that might be addressed through social media platforms.
Target Audiences: Health care providers, educators, case managers, community builders, and attendees with a refugee background
❧Housing Resources and Opportunities
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Erik Kingston, Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Heather Harrison, Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Matt Ruschman, Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
In this session, we will have a conversation about the difficulties people face in finding housing for rent or purchase. Participants will learn more about emergency rental assistance, how to search for housing, and what housing programs are available in Idaho. While we can't solve every housing challenge, we hope participants will find tools and strategies to help move toward more stable housing.
Target Audiences: People with a refugee background, case managers, service providers, advocates
❧Self-Talk
Jerry Catt, Listen 4 A Change
Saida Razaee, Listen 4 A Change
Room: Hatch Ballroom
Theorists claim listening is a process that begins within the self. This workshop explores dimensions of the self and components necessary to that listening context. This is an exploratory and strategy-based workshop that teaches the meaningfulness of intrapersonal listening (listening that occurs within oneself) relative to other listening contexts. Participants are challenged to develop self-awareness and mindfulness of the self — the intra-structure — in all listening contexts. Participants discover how self-talk and intrapersonal listening counters both external and internal distractions that compete for the listener’s attention. Upon completion of the workshop, participants will be able to recognize covert and overt aspects of their listening behaviors, and to understand their responsibility and power as listeners in the intrapersonal communication context.
Target Audiences: Anyone would benefit from this workshop because we all have self-talk.
❧Deep Rooted: Colonialism in Resettlement
Georgette Siqueiros, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Room: Simplot AC
The United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) provides safety to people fleeing from countries experiencing worsening humanitarian crises around the world. While many people are familiar with USRAP, not everyone has a deep understanding of the histories that led to the violence and instability that drive refugees' dislocation and need for protection. This workshop will review the latest Emergency Watchlist from the International Rescue Committee and explore some of the histories that have led to the humanitarian crises happening today, highlighting countries from which many refugees in Idaho have arrived in recent years, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Afghanistan, and Latin America. It is only by learning our global history that can we start to understand the present of resettlement in Idaho, an understanding which will strengthen the services we provide to arriving families and resettled communities.
Target Audiences: Advocates, resettlement agency staff, nonprofit staff
❧Improving Trust and Communication in a Digital World
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Judy Thorne, Idaho State University, Idaho AIDS Education and Training Center
Holly Beech, Idaho Office for Refugees
Chelsea Jordan and Devon Jancin, English Language Center
Georgette Bisoka, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Hannah Habineza, Refugee Medical Case Manager, FMRI
Room: Simplot BD
Zoom Room: Zoom Room #1
Over the past two years, we've seen how important it is (and how difficult it can be) to stay connected digitally. Outreach and trust-building efforts often aren't as effective online as they are in person. We saw this early on in the pandemic, when contact tracing among Treasure Valley refugee and immigrant populations proved to be a challenging endeavor. In response, the Idaho Office for Refugees and the Idaho AIDS Education and Training Center partnered to develop training videos and YouTube clips to circulate among refugee communities and contact tracers.
At our workshop session, we'll talk about the challenges and successes of this endeavor and the lessons learned. We'll also hear from panelists who work in refugee resettlement, healthcare, English language training and social media outreach to discuss best practices for moving forward and staying connected in a digital world. We hope to inspire more grassroots efforts for reaching new community members and to problem-solve other barriers that might be addressed through social media platforms.
Target Audiences: Health care providers, educators, case managers, community builders, and attendees with a refugee background
❧Housing Resources and Opportunities
HYBRID (available for virtual attendees)
Erik Kingston, Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Heather Harrison, Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Matt Ruschman, Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Room: Jordan Ballroom
Zoom Room: Main Stage
In this session, we will have a conversation about the difficulties people face in finding housing for rent or purchase. Participants will learn more about emergency rental assistance, how to search for housing, and what housing programs are available in Idaho. While we can't solve every housing challenge, we hope participants will find tools and strategies to help move toward more stable housing.
Target Audiences: People with a refugee background, case managers, service providers, advocates
❧Self-Talk
Jerry Catt, Listen 4 A Change
Saida Razaee, Listen 4 A Change
Room: Hatch Ballroom
Theorists claim listening is a process that begins within the self. This workshop explores dimensions of the self and components necessary to that listening context. This is an exploratory and strategy-based workshop that teaches the meaningfulness of intrapersonal listening (listening that occurs within oneself) relative to other listening contexts. Participants are challenged to develop self-awareness and mindfulness of the self — the intra-structure — in all listening contexts. Participants discover how self-talk and intrapersonal listening counters both external and internal distractions that compete for the listener’s attention. Upon completion of the workshop, participants will be able to recognize covert and overt aspects of their listening behaviors, and to understand their responsibility and power as listeners in the intrapersonal communication context.
Target Audiences: Anyone would benefit from this workshop because we all have self-talk.
❧Deep Rooted: Colonialism in Resettlement
Georgette Siqueiros, International Rescue Committee of Boise
Room: Simplot AC
The United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) provides safety to people fleeing from countries experiencing worsening humanitarian crises around the world. While many people are familiar with USRAP, not everyone has a deep understanding of the histories that led to the violence and instability that drive refugees' dislocation and need for protection. This workshop will review the latest Emergency Watchlist from the International Rescue Committee and explore some of the histories that have led to the humanitarian crises happening today, highlighting countries from which many refugees in Idaho have arrived in recent years, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Afghanistan, and Latin America. It is only by learning our global history that can we start to understand the present of resettlement in Idaho, an understanding which will strengthen the services we provide to arriving families and resettled communities.
Target Audiences: Advocates, resettlement agency staff, nonprofit staff
Idaho Office for refugees1607 W. Jefferson St.
Boise, ID 83702 208.336.4222 |
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