News

WCCO | An internal federal notice sent by officials at the Department of Health and Human Services and obtained by CBS News, said the Department of Homeland Security “will provide a one-time resettlement support stipend of $2,500 to unaccompanied alien children, 14 years of age and older, who have elected to voluntarily depart the United States as of the date of this notice and moving forward.” WCCO spoke to Jane Graupman, the Institute’s Executive Director.

We’re preparing for the winter ahead and need the community’s help! Imagine arriving in Minnesota as an immigrant or refugee from a warm-weather country like Congo or Ethiopia, having never seen snow. Many of the arrivals we welcome don’t have the winter necessities needed to stay warm. You can help by organizing a winter coat drive for newly arriving families.

Sahan Journal | Twin Cities immigration attorneys and advocates are asking clients to gather letters of support from employers and others as the federal government seeks to determine “good moral character” in the citizenship process. Sahan Journal spoke with Corleen Smith, the Institute’s Immigration Services Director.

In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

• Free Citizenship Workshop for Welcoming Week
• Volunteer Opportunities 
• Small Business Resource Fair for Immigrants in October
• STEM Resources Fair in November

Star Tribune | President Trump froze refugee resettlement when he took office. But Afrikaners, white farmers from South Africa, had their cases expedited. Star Tribune spoke to Jane Graupman, the Institute’s Executive Director.

In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

• 35th anniversary of medical careers training 
• Summer student activities
• Small Business Resource Fair for Immigrants in October
• No Institute parking during State Fair
• Volunteer Spotlight
• Summer intern thank you

Former students, staff and graduates gathered in the Institute’s Hall of Nations to celebrate 35 years of providing life-changing medical career training and career advancement support for New Americans.

Read about our successful, second annual Immigrant Small Business Resource Fair from October 3, 2025.

Learn about volunteering for the International Institute of Minnesota in this question and answer series with our dedicated volunteers. Today, meet Michael, a loan officer and housing specialist, who sponsors and volunteer teaches New Americans about homebuying. This essential role helps immigrants learn how to apply for a mortgage and how to buy a home.