Adjusting to life in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. To support immigrants and refugees in their journey toward integration and success, the International Institute of Minnesota (IIMN) offers the Community Orientation Workshops (COW). These free classes are designed to provide essential knowledge and skills to help individuals navigate life in Minnesota.

International Institute of Minnesota 11 week Community Orientation Workshop

Where: PUC Waite House Conference Room | 2323 11th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN, 55404

When: May 8th – July 17th, every Thursday from 2:00 -4:00 pm

What Are Community Orientation Workshops?

The Community Orientation Workshops are a series of classes that cover a wide range of topics relevant to newcomers. Each week focuses on a different subject, allowing participants to join at any time and repeat classes as needed.

Topics Covered Include:

1. Community Navigation – Understanding local systems and services.

2. Family Adjustment – Adapting to new cultural norms and family dynamics.

3. Safety Awareness – Learning about personal and community safety.

4. Health Literacy – Accessing healthcare services and understanding health information.

5. Housing Literacy – Navigating housing options and tenant rights.

6. Financial Literacy – Managing personal finances and budgeting.

7. Educational Readiness – Preparing for academic success in the U.S. education system.

8. Job Readiness – Building skills for employment and workplace expectations.

9. Progress Towards Citizenship – Understanding the path to U.S. citizenship.

10. Assistance Resources – Identifying community resources and support services.

11. Community Bridges – Building connections within the local community

These classes are specifically designed for adults with humanitarian protection immigrant status who have been living in the United States for five years or less. This includes individuals with refugee, asylee, certified victim of human trafficking, special immigrant visa, Amerasian, or Cuban/Haitian entrant status. All classes are free of charge.

Additional Support and Resources

Beyond the Community Orientation Workshops, IIMN offers a variety of other classes and programs to support the immigrant and refugee community:

• Housekeeping Training: Learn skills for the hospitality and cleaning industry, with job placement assistance.

• English Classes: Improve reading, writing, and speaking English at beginner, intermediate, or advanced levels.

• Dietary Aide Training: Gain knowledge in food safety, nutrition, and communication skills, with job support.

• Professional Leadership Training: Develop leadership skills for career advancement.

• Entrepreneurship Class: Create a business plan with guidance from experts.

• College Readiness Academy: Prepare for higher education with support and resources.International Institute of MinnesotaInternational Institute of Minnesota

For more information or to register for classes, please visit the IIMN website or contact Kaija Bergen, Instructor and Program Support, at (651) 377-8100 or via email.International Institute of Minnesota

At IIMN, we are committed to empowering immigrants and refugees to thrive in Minnesota. Through education, support, and community engagement, we help individuals build a foundation for success and integration.