IDAHO CONFERENCE ON REFUGEES

Hosted by Boise State University Service Learning &

the Idaho Office for Refugees

NeighborWorks® Boise was grateful to participate in the 14th annual Conference on Refugees:  BELONGING BEGINS WITH US held at Boise State University. There were great sessions and keynote speakers focused on ways to create spaces of belonging. A highlight was hearing author Edafe Okporo, an experienced and notable voice for human rights. Okporo is a Nigerian asylee and global gay rights and immigration activist. He brought the theme to life by sharing his story of a stranger showing kindness when he first arrived to America when he was in a low place. The kindness shared with him gave him hope and ultimately helped set him on the course of fighting for the rights of others.

Workshops included:

• Mutual Restoration and Healing Through Trauma-informed Care

• Educate, Integrate, Advocate. How Stories Bridge the Gap Between "Us" and "Them"

• Refugee 101 (led by Rabiou Manzo, NWB Board of Directors Member)

• Empowerment and Belonging in the Workplace

• Housing Resources and Opportunities

NeighborWorks® Boise provides housing for some of our refugee neighbors at two of our affordable apartment communities and is participating in the Neighbors United Taskforce, working to address immediate and longer term needs for newly arriving refugees.

40TH PAINT THE TOWN™

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Know someone whose home is need of a new paint job? We are now accepting applications. Last year, our volunteers painted 25 homes, and this year, for our 40th Anniversary, we're planning to paint 40 homes!

Participating homeowners must be over 65, disabled, or a veteran and unable to have their home painted due to financial or physical restraints. *Priority Applications Close April 1*

MERIDIAN HOMEOWNER REPAIR PROGRAM

Since 2021, NeighborWorks® Boise has partnered with the City of Meridian to make essential repairs for Meridian homeowners. Renovations include accessibility, emergency repair, and/or weatherization. This program was renewed in 2022, with more funds to help qualified homeowners make important repairs to their home. Please spread the word if you know a possible applicant.

Homes Repaired: 5 with 3 in progress

Assistance Provided: nearly $100,000

NOTE FROM A NEIGHBORWORKS® BOISE BOARD MEMBER:

I have experienced firsthand how a small amount of help can change the trajectory of one's life. I grew up in Niger and later made my way to Moscow, Idaho as a college student. During my time at the University of Idaho, I had so much to figure out on my own, in a completely new country and culture. I did receive help and guidance during that season. I experienced it, I believe in it, and that is why I work to help others. I truly believe a little help can take you anywhere.

NeighborWorks® Boise does so many great things for the community, including the refugee community I work with. From providing affordable rental apartments for many refugee families to homeownership education, they offer important programs and assistance. I have served on NeighborWorks® Boise's Board of Directors since 2016 and I am grateful to be a part of their mission of creating housing solutions for underserved populations.

Rabiou Manzo

Project Manager, Global Gardens by Jannus