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Services
Refugee Economic Independence Program (REIP) |
A Vision of Hope
REIP was inspired by Ruth Lomo, a Sudanese refugee who had been re-settled from a refugee camp to the Binghampton neighborhood with her five children. With her husband still in Africa, Ruth worked three jobs to support her family while learning English and establishing her independence. In 2004, she approached UMNC about helping create a strong refugee community for women in her position by teaching them the skills they needed to survive - and thrive - in their new adopted home.
A Formula for Success
Most refugees arrive in the U.S. with little or no money, education or understanding of American society. Unfortunately, that often translates into a lifetime of dependence and missed opportunities. REIP is designed to empower refugees by helping them provide for their families and achieve lasting financial stability. Women receive ESL classes, job readiness, skill training and assistance with job placement. Children of refugee families receive ongoing tutoring and mentoring, and can participate in social skill development activities through a daily after-school program.
A Growing Need
Between 1990 and 2000 (the last full decade for which data exists), Tennessee’s refugee population grew by 169%, making it the 6th fastest growing refugee population in the country. The number of refugees, particularly in the Memphis area, has since increased even more dramatically. Since REIP officially opened in the summer of 2006, enrollment has ballooned from 12 children and 3 women to over 100 children and nearly 50 women, served by both paid staff and over 80 volunteer tutors.
REIP Narrative
Thanks for considering UMNC as a potential grantee for the administration and operations of the Refugee Economic Independence Program (REIP). Toward this end we are submitting a simplified budget narrative to indicate the expenses will expect to incur to take REIP to the next level. read more...
For more information about REIP, please call (901) 323-4993. If you are interested in either making a financial donation to UMNC, please click here or volunteering, please click here.
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