Newcomers and Welcomers

Today’s interview features Nick Courchesne.  Nick works for International Literacy & Development (or ILAD) based in DFW.  Nick is is the economic development administrator for ILAD’s Refugee Business Development Center helping refugees start & run their own businesses.  We hope you enjoy our interview with him.  

Today’s interview features Maria Cabrales.  Maria is business immigration attorney with Davis & Campbell. Maria has volunteered with The Welcome Network for many years, & she has recently becoming a board member with us.  We hope you enjoy our interview with her. 

Today’s interview features John Leitzel.  John is a pastor at Mercy Hill Church in Munster Indiana, a cycling coach with the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, & previously a biology professor.  Our interview with John explores what all of scripture has to say about welcoming immigrants.  We hope you enjoy our interview with him.  

Today’s interview features Leslie McGowan.  Leslie is a member of a network of English practice clubs in Tulsa, Oklahoma meant to help newcomers practice English & make friendships in American homes.  We hope you enjoy our interview with her.  

Today’s interview features Scott Austin Key.  Scott is the co-founder & co-director of Every Shelter, a group designs shelters with & for refugees in refugee camps around the world.  We hope you enjoy our interview with him.  

Today’s interview features Chris Ophus.  Chris is on staff with New Life Centers, a group that was key in supporting new arrivals coming to Chicago from Venezuela in recent years.  We hope you enjoy our interview with him.  LinksNew Life CentersNew GenerationsThe Welcome Network

Today’s interview features Julia Sheets.  Julia and her family are a part of our family hosting program.  I hope you enjoy our interview with her.  

Today’s interview features Loren Balisky.  Loren is the founder and director of Kinbrace, a group that provides creative housing for refugee claimants in British Columbia.  Kinbrace’s housing ideas have influenced the DNA behind our Welcome Homes.  We hope you enjoy our interview with him.  

Today’s interview features Tim Ophus.  Tim is the pastor of Chicago Gospel Fellowship and an ESL teacher with the Chicago Welcome Center.  We hope you enjoy our interview with him.  

Today’s interview features Amber Elworth.  Amber is the co-owner of Lighthouse Coffee in Baton Rogue Louisiana. A business specifically started to hire newcomers.  We hope you enjoy our interview with her.  LInks:Lighthouse CoffeeThe Welcome Network