Multicultural center that welcomes newcomers, supports them in their transition into our community, & creates access and opportunities for self-sufficiency The Welcome Center provides services for newcomers, agencies, and the community through four programs:

Economic Self-Sufficiency programming helps newcomers acquire the skills necessary to secure gainful employment, manage finances, and become homeowners. Staff work in partnership with other community programs to offer classes/workshops and one on one support in the areas of  financial literacy, job skills, computer/internet training and other topics. Partners include: University of Minnesota Extension and Three Rivers Community Action.

Advocacy and Client Services connects clients with necessary community resources to address medical, social, community,legal, financial, educational, employment and other needs. Services and referrals include a brief assessment of immediate needs, followed by referral and assistance in obtaining the resources to meet them. Services include interpreting and translating, housing and employment support, and computer access. Translation/Interpreting services include document translation, sight translation, letter writing, interpreting for appointments, and making calls on behalf of limited and non-English speaking clients. When the needs identified are not provided by the Welcome Center, referrals to other organizations are provided.

Refugee Social Services serves to provide our Karen/Karenni/Burmese population with transitional, social and emotional support. The Karen Social Services Coordinator serves as the community liaison and case manager by meeting one-on-one with youth, parents, and families to help them assess their needs, match and/or refer them to various community services and programs; organize and oversee several services and programs that will be offered on-site, including youth, parent, and family support groups (parent and family skills training; family support services); and providing translating and interpretation services as needed.

Refugee Employment Services exists to provide refugees with employment support and opportunities. Our culturally diverse staff is highly trained and ready to serve the refugee community. We focus on refugees who have been living in the U.S.A for less that 5 years who are on either MFIP, RCA, or NPA. We offer one-to-one job training, placement, coaching and counseling and help clients overcome employment barriers identified in their employment plan.