Crossing Borders Sharing Journeys

A growing number of nonprofit organizations have been created by immigrants and refugees to serve their communities in North America. These immigrant- and refugee-led organizations (IRLOs) work to provide services and meet a variety of needs, while at the same time building the infrastructure of these communities. Through a grant from the W. K. Kellogg Foundation Innovation Fund, Fieldstone Alliance initiated the two-year project in January 2004. The goal of Nexus was to enhance the knowledge and skills of capacity builders across North America in working with immigrant- and refugee-led organizations. The Nexus Project had two main components: research on capacity building with IRLOs and formation of a peer learning community among those who build the capacity of these organizations. This report draws three broad lessons for the capacity building field, with implications for the funding community, IRLOs, and capacity builders: effective capacity building takes time, which requires resources; more immigrant and refugee capacity builders are needed; and capacity builders need continuous learning and development. The Introduction describes the formation of the Nexus Project, its goals, and its working definitions. Chapter 1 describes the factors that result in effective capacity building with immigrant- and refugee-led organizations. Chapter 2 presents case studies from each of the Nexus partners. Each case study illustrates a practice used by Nexus partners when working with IRLOs. Chapter 3 details lessons Nexus partners learned through the course of this project. It further states implications of these lessons for those who fund work with IRLOs, for IRLO leaders, and for capacity building providers. The Appendices include a summary of IRLO research conducted by Wilder Research Center specifically for Nexus; a bibliography; and descriptions of the organizations and individuals who contributed to this report.

This report outlines seven broad factors that contribute to effective capacity building with immigrant- and refugee-led organizations, and presents a case study from each Nexus Project partner that illustrates a practice used when working with IRLOs.

My Name is Eddie Nilsson, and when I was 19 I packed up what little I had and moved 2000 miles to really start my life. I love my family but sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands and carve a path all your own. Now, years later I look back at the wild decision I made, the big dreams I followed, and all the sorts of people I´ve met. Although not a unique story it is one that I believe resonates with people because we all in our own way make absurd leaps to become ourselves. Using a mixture of life experiences from myself and friends this book is fiction but with heavy helpings of reality and a lot of relatable moments and fun times. Although I wrote the book as a passion project to prove to myself I could do it, I have had positive responses from those who have read it, however, because it was such a personal project I am reluctant to involve big publishing houses, that's why I bring it here, to perhaps connect my story with other that might need it on a more personal platform. The book will be printed in Sweden. The size of this book is A5 with a matt finish. I consider this book Young adult as it deals with themes of change, growing up, and family (both the ones you´re born with and the ones you aren't). The story focuses on `Oscar` a boy from a tiny village in Bosnia who bets his future on a risky application to a University in Sweden. After getting accepted he must wrestle the excitement of a new start with the fear of leaving his family and comfort zone. With the promise to stay in touch and a suitcase full of hope, he has to move to another country, make new friends, study hard, learn a language ... oh and he doesn't even know where he will be living when he arrives. Along his way, friends new and old help in any way they can, and a cast of colourful characters promise they aren't getting in the way deliberately. Characters Oscar is well-mannered if not a little stubborn, his family is full of love and laughs despite being poor. He dreams of becoming a doctor and has studied hard all his life in order to make this a reality. Oscar loves helping people but can he sit still long enough to allow others to help HIM. Selma is the girl next door. They've grown up together and live on the same streets but they might as well be from different worlds. Her family are rich and it's not just their big house that keeps them distant. Maybe money can solve some problems but when money is the problem, will Selma see the solution might be closer than she realises. Erik, the roommate likes to make jokes, sometimes at Oscars expense but underneath it all he realises that if they are going to live together they might as well get along, and even helps him acclimate to his new surroundings. Nora is the letting agent and she ... well she is hard to summarise you´ll have to see her antics for yourself.

Perhaps the greatest journey we’ll ever have is the journey to meet ourselves. At the age of twenty-eight, Bianca had a flourishing career with one of Australia’s largest supermarket chains. She had climbed the corporate ladder and was well on her way to achieving the “Great Australian Dream”. But one autumn day, as she sat in her office staring at the grey, confining walls of expectations, deadlines and detachment, she had one of the most profound epiphanies of her life. She realised that her lifestyle and core values were fundamentally misaligned. In this unmasked memoir, Bianca Caruana – the woman behind the renowned travel blog, The Altruistic Traveller – shares the events that unfolded after her courageous decision to steer away from her charted course and lead a life guided by her heart. Bianca’s romantic, adventurous tale spans Australia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. It is a story of love, loss, community, and connection, infused with sage wisdom about the journey to meet our untethered selves for the first time.

How do international encounters in Nicaragua connect spiritual formation and liberation theology to transform communities? Seekers of justice from around the world found inspiration in the Nicaraguan revolution and struggle for freedom. After recognizing the patronizing, neocolonial structure of missionary models of aid, pastor Leslie Penrose founded a nonprofit organization, JustHope, with core values of solidarity, mutuality, collaboration, and sustainability in partnership. Hundreds of participants have joined this quest to enact the compassionate and just ethics of the Hebrew prophets and the liberating power of Jesus. Inspiring stories of Nicaraguan-led creativity exploring a new future with volunteers from the U.S. are told by pastoral theologian and ethicist Kathleen McCallie. Framed as an interdisciplinary case study of seminary students traveling for solidarity to explore social justice with JustHope, the book offers glimpses of one group's journey. Readers explore possibilities for an international partnership between U.S. volunteers and Nicaraguan community organizers. The Nicaraguan base-community model offers critiques of and alternatives to the church in the U.S. and neoliberal development. McCallie contributes to academic and activist discourses about dismantling abusive theology, racism, sexism, and U.S. hegemony.

Bring focus and direction to your work Too often, if you ask four people in a nonprofit what their organization's mission is, you'll get four different answers. Organizations without clearly defined and agreed-to mission and vision statements frequently find themselves adrift at sea, in real financial trouble, and unable to make an ongoing, positive impact on the community. But an effective mission and vision statement can help an organization unify services and create a consistent approach to new program development. Crafting Effective Mission and Vision Statements will help your organization develop (or revise) mission and vision statements that bring focus and direction to your work. With orderly, easy-to-follow steps, this engaging guide helps you: Build ownership for the mission and vision statements among board and staff Create a common understanding of your organization’s goals Understand how mission and vision statements differ and how to use both for greatest benefit Develop a mission statement that captures exactly what your organization does Create a vision statement based on stakeholders’ ideas and the organization’s history, capacity for growth, and fundraising potential Use this guide to create mission and vision statements that help your organization stay focused and keep it moving toward a positive future.

Discover the Majestic Legacy of Egypt: Unearth the Secrets of the Sphinx, the Epic Story of Abu Simbel Temples, the Untold Legacy of the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Mysteries of Philae Temple Embark on a captivating journey through the sands of time with our "Egyptian Monuments" book bundle, an enthralling collection that unveils the secrets, mysteries, and profound significance of Egypt's most iconic landmarks. Dive into the mysteries of the Sphinx, stand in awe of the Abu Simbel Temples, uncover the untold legacy of the Temple of Hatshepsut, and explore the ethereal beauty of Philae Temple. What's Included in the Bundle: Book 1 - Secrets of the Sphinx: Unveiling the Enigma of Giza Unravel the enigma shrouding the Sphinx of Giza as you journey through its symbolism, purpose, and the mysteries that have puzzled historians for centuries. Explore its role as an enigmatic sentinel that has withstood the sands of time and ignited the imaginations of explorers and scholars alike. Book 2 - Guardians of Eternity: The Epic Story of Abu Simbel Temples Venture into the sun-soaked lands of Nubia and witness the colossal Abu Simbel Temples, testaments to pharaonic grandeur and astronomical precision. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring story of Ramses II, whose vision carved monumental legacy into the very cliffs of the land. Book 3 - Rising Queen: The Untold Legacy of the Temple of Hatshepsut Discover the remarkable journey of Hatshepsut, the pharaoh queen who defied convention and left an indelible mark on history. Traverse through the intricate halls of her temple and witness the harmonious blend of architectural ambition and artistic brilliance that defined her reign. Book 4 - Echoes of Divinity: Uncovering the Mysteries of Philae Temple Set sail to the serene island of Philae and explore its role as a sanctuary of spirituality and devotion. Uncover the mysteries that surround this ethereal temple, from its mythic origins to its enduring influence on culture and faith. Why Choose the "Egyptian Monuments" Book Bundle: 🌟 Immerse Yourself in History: Dive deep into the stories, legends, and enigmas that have captivated historians, explorers, and curious minds for centuries. 🌟 Unveil Ancient Mysteries: Unlock the secrets behind each monumental landmark, from the Sphinx's silent watch to the ethereal echoes of Philae Temple. 🌟 Embark on a Visual Journey: Immerse yourself in vivid descriptions and captivating imagery that transport you to the heart of these awe-inspiring sites. 🌟 Experience Four Eras: Traverse through ancient Egypt's shifting sands, exploring the reigns of pharaohs, queens, and the echoes of devoted worshippers. 🌟 Perfect for Enthusiasts and Curious Minds: Whether you're an Egyptology enthusiast or simply eager to uncover the marvels of the past, this bundle offers a fascinating exploration. Limited-Time Offer: Experience the allure of Egypt's most iconic monuments with our "Egyptian Monuments" book bundle, an immersive collection that takes you on an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt. Indulge your curiosity and spark your sense of adventure today! Get Your Bundle Now!

Start the Conversation No “how-to” manual exists on cultural competency. And, compared to other topics in nonprofit management, little exists on the skills and strategies needed to address racism and inequity. Building cultural competency is an ongoing journey that nonprofit leaders choose to take because they know the end result will be a more inclusive, connected, and effective organization. Patricia St. Onge and her contributing authors help readers grapple with the urgent issues that can transform capacity builders into change agents in the nonprofit sector. Embracing Cultural Competency starts the dialogue on how organizations can start building capacity. Nonprofit capacity builders will • discover a framework to help discuss issues related to cultural competency • learn about methods, practices, and values that define cultural competency and culturally based work in nonprofit capacity building • understand the complexities within ethnic communities • gain insights into the nature of institutionalized racism Through a range of methods—literature review, personal interviews, peer dialogue, insights of contributing authors—readers get a mosaic of perspectives that surround cultural competency. Plus, the book presents the insights of authors who represent five major ethnic communities in the United States: Asian-Pacific Islander, American Indian, African American, White, and Latino.