Asylum Seeker, Refugee & Immigrant Community Program
The Asylum Seeker, Refugee & Immigrant Community (ARC) Program is dedicated to fostering belonging, celebrating our communities’ rich cultural diversity, creating safer spaces, and promoting community cohesion.
Led by and for asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrants, ARC is here to center and support voices that too often go unheard. We focus on community-led events, peer-to-peer support, and advocating for the needs of the ARC community. ARC supports our community to access the tools, space and resources needed to own our stories and lead the conversation about our needs and experiences.
The ARC Program was created at The Root to support the incredible work and leadership taking shape in the asylum seeker, refugee, and immigrant community here in Southern Vermont. At The Root, leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about who steps up and we’re here to support those who do, offering resources and a platform to help our visions become reality.
For more information about ARC, contact: ARC@therootsjc.org
Interested in volunteering with the ARC Program? Complete The Root’s Volunteer Interest Form and be sure to select “Asylum Seeker, Refugee and Immigrant Community (ARC) Program” in the form.
ARC Storytelling and Cultural Event April 26th at SIT!
SAVE THE DATE! Join the Asylum Seeker, Refugee and Immigrant Community Program (ARC) for a Powerful Day of Storytelling & Cultural Celebration!
📅 April 26
⏰ 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 SIT Campus in Brattleboro, VT
A Celebration of Culture, Connection & Community. This event brings together diverse communities to share their stories, traditions, and heritage through food, clothing, music, and dance. Let's build unity and strengthen connections through dialogue and cultural appreciation!
Event highlights:
👉🏾 Cultural foods and cooking – Experience the flavors of traditional dishes from diverse communities.
👉🏽 Cultural Dress Showcase – Explore the symbolism behind traditional clothing.
👉🏿 Ancestral Name & Clan History – Learn about the deep roots of ancestral names and family histories.
👉🏼 Traditional Music & Dance – Enjoy live performances showcasing cultural music and dance!
Spread the Word & Join Us! Let’s celebrate the beauty of our cultures together!
📩 For more details or to support, contact Bibimba at ARC@therootsjc.org
The Root’s ARC Program is now at the Brattelboro SIT Campus on Mondays!
The Root’s Asylum Seeker, Refugee & Immigrant Community (ARC) Program Coordinator, Bibimba Mufaume, is now available Mondays from 10 AM – 2 PM at Bliss House on the SIT campus in Brattleboro!
Get in touch with Bibimba:
📧 ARC@therootsjc.org
📞 802-416-1297
Whether folks need help navigating local services, accessing resources, seeking community connections, or simply having a supportive conversation, Bibimba is available to assist. Stop by to learn more about how the ARC Program is working to build community connections, a sense of belonging and celebrating cultural diversity among asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrant communities here in Southern Vermont.
👉🏾 Please share and spread the word!
Introducing the South Vermont Immigrant Community Leader Network (SVICLN)!
We are excited to announce the formation of SVICLN, a network dedicated to uplifting and growing leadership among Asylum Seekers, Refugees, and Immigrants in Southern Vermont, fostering community, and advocating for the rights of immigrants at local and state levels.
What We Do:
Build leadership and self-representation in policy and decision-making
Provide mutual support and solidarity among community leaders
Advocate for the rights and well-being of immigrants
Facilitate cultural exchange and dialogue
Address community concerns and offer solutions
Get Involved!
If you're an Asylum Seeker, Refugee, or Immigrant looking to make a difference, we invite you to join us! Contact Bibimba Mufaume at ARC@therootsjc.org to learn more.