Forging Opportunities for Refugees in America Inc NFP

Overview

Forging Opportunities for Refugees in America Inc NFP, commonly referred to as FORA, is a U.S.-based not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing educational resources to refugees and their families. Established in January 2019, its primary goal is to empower refugees, helping them achieve economic self-sufficiency and integration into American civic life.

Mission and Programs

FORA's mission is to ensure that refugee families have access to sufficient education, enabling them to thrive in their new communities. The organization offers educational tutoring, training, and work readiness programs tailored to the specific needs of refugee populations. By establishing multiple locations within the communities they serve, FORA aims to provide accessible educational services, reflecting its name by creating numerous "fora" or forums where refugees can receive support.

Target Populations

While FORA serves refugees from diverse backgrounds, it has particularly focused on supporting Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, as well as those from Bhutan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine, and other countries. These refugees often face challenges such as lacking basic literacy and numeracy skills, despite their strong dedication to education.

Initiative History

The foundation of FORA was inspired by the founding members' experiences welcoming Rohingya refugees and asylum seekers into their homes. Witnessing the determination and resilience of these refugees motivated the creation of a structured organization to address broader educational needs.

Response to Challenges

During the COVID-19 pandemic, FORA adapted by transitioning to virtual learning platforms, which allowed them to reach more students remotely. This pivot enabled them to serve an additional 30 students via Zoom sessions. Moreover, FORA has expanded its physical presence by acquiring a larger facility, formerly a library branch in Chicago, to accommodate more students and remain accessible to the community.

Impact

FORA's High Impact Tutoring program plays a critical role in its mission by providing both academic and emotional support to refugee students. The organization emphasizes literacy as a human right and has demonstrated significant success in improving student happiness and academic engagement. For instance, by 2022, 93% of FORA students reported being happy or extremely happy at school, up from 50% in the previous year.

Financial Overview

As a tax-exempt organization, FORA relies on contributions as its primary source of revenue. In recent years, its financial assets have grown significantly, allowing the organization to expand its services and infrastructure.

Governance

FORA is led by a team of dedicated officers and directors who contribute their time voluntarily, reflecting the organization's commitment to its mission without drawing salaries from its operations.

Conclusion

Forging Opportunities for Refugees in America Inc NFP embodies a comprehensive approach to supporting refugee populations, emphasizing education as a cornerstone for their integration into American society. Its community-driven strategy and adaptability have positioned FORA as a vital resource for refugees seeking to build new lives in the United States.