program overview

The Refugee Career Pathways (RCP) program, established in 2018, helps refugees and other ORR-eligible populations achieve self-sufficiency through education and job training they need to secure employment or continue their professional careers in the United States. RCP also provides refugees with coaching and resources to create personalized career development plans and learn about career opportunities in their new communities. ORR-funded RCP grant recipients work with each participant to help them find solutions for making progress toward their career goals.

At Global Alliance Solutions Foundation (GASF), we provide career counseling through a Case Manager working directly with individuals and families to provide access to needed services and establish career goals. This includes developing a personalized career development plan, career assessment, evaluation of foreign degrees and credentials, educational opportunities, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. Workshops offered include explaining the difference between a job and a career, looking at potential growth within existing jobs, and determining the best path to self-sufficiency and financial stability. Specific training program include Child Development Associate Credential (CDA), Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA) and Certified Phlebotomist Assistant Program (CPA)

GASF also provides general information on payroll process, taxes, and work etiquette. As we work with participants we continue to ask about their experiences so we can address concerns, opportunities and learn to improve training for future participants. Workshops/training is provided for ESL, Vocational English language training, child care services including application to the state DHS child care funding, career opportunities, resume writing, and other areas as needed.

In some cases, participants may receive direct financial assistance to cover some career plan needs such as, child care while participating in career development activities, licensing and exam fees, transportation to and from career development activities, uniforms and safety gear. Participants are also encouraged to enroll in the IDA program to save toward assets such as a vehicle or further education which will greatly improve the outlook for employment advancement opportunities.

ELIGIBILITY: Participants in this program must have been in the US for less than 5 years, NOT a citizen, and have status as Refugee, Asylee, Paroled Refugee/Asylee, or other prescribed group noted under the Office of Refugee Resettlement regulations, authorized to work in the U.S. and able and willing to begin or continue employment in a professional or skilled career field during the program

FUNDING: This program is funded through the Administration for Children & Families (ACF), Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)