FORGE at Pitt: Empowering Refugees Amid Policy Shifts
FORGE at Pitt aids Pittsburgh refugees through education, advocacy, and mentorship, navigating challenges amid shifting U.S. immigration policies.
In the heart of Pittsburgh, a student-led organization is making remarkable strides in supporting refugee communities during challenging times. As national immigration policies shift and federal funding for refugee programs faces uncertainty, FORGE (Facilitating Opportunities for Refugee Growth and Empowerment) at the University of Pittsburgh continues to bridge crucial gaps for refugee families adapting to life in America.
Empowering refugees through education and support
Founded in 2005 as an advocacy organization for African refugees, FORGE has evolved into a comprehensive support network with chapters across the United States, including nearby Carnegie Mellon University. The organization’s primary focus remains on educational support and community integration for refugee families in Pittsburgh.
“FORGE is a special organization … because you’re getting to work with such a special population that you have in Pittsburgh, the refugee populations,” Rudra Patel, the organization’s business manager and senior biomedical sciences student, told Pitt News.
Building bridges through tutoring and language support
Through partnerships with local organizations like Hello Neighbor, FORGE volunteers provide essential tutoring services and assistance with daily tasks. Sarah Siddiqui, FORGE’s vice president, shares a success story from her three-year mentorship: “It’s really great to see all of the improvement. She works really hard and she improves a lot every week. Her English skills from when we started lessons to now are incredible.”
The organization’s impact extends beyond traditional tutoring. Volunteers assist refugee families with practical skills like navigating public transportation and managing healthcare appointments. Cultural understanding plays a vital role in building trust, as demonstrated by Patel’s experience working with a Syrian family, where his knowledge of Arabic and Middle Eastern customs helped establish a strong connection.
Facing challenges in changing times
Recent political developments, including new executive orders and funding restrictions, have created additional hurdles for refugee support organizations. Cassandra Calvaresi, FORGE’s president, told Pitt News, “The current political climate is already affecting the communities greatly. Now with the new policies, all of the resettlement agencies here in Pittsburgh and in the United States are facing a lot of problems with funding.”
Despite these challenges, FORGE continues to expand its services, including a transportation assistance program and participation in Hello Neighbor’s English as a New Language classes. These initiatives help refugee families navigate daily life in Pittsburgh while building essential skills for long-term success.
The organization’s work demonstrates the vital role of community support in refugee resettlement, especially as national policies and funding limitations create new challenges for established resettlement agencies.
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