Government Agencies and Programs
The Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission's vision is to be an exemplary commission by adding public value to the State of Michigan and the APA community, by fully engaging APAs across the state
The Commission strives to market the state's career development services to Michigan Hispanics, encourage initiatives to reduce the high school dropout rates of Hispanic youth, and facilitate efforts to increase the enrollment of Hispanics in postsecondary education and training programs
The Michigan Immigrant and Refugee Council passionately embraces diversity, recognizing and celebrating the profound strength immigrants and refugees bring to the vibrant tapestry of Michigan. The council is unwavering in its dedication to cultivating a warm, inclusive environment that extends a heartfelt welcome to individuals from diverse backgrounds who have chosen Michigan as their new home.
The Michigan LGBTQ+ Commission, stands as a beacon of advocacy, inclusion and celebration for Michigan's diverse LGBTQ+ community. The commission's charge is to ensure equal representation, amplify voices and foster a state where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feels affirmed and valued.
The 15-member council will advise the department on issues relating to the Arab and Chaldean communities in Michigan and promote awareness of their culture and history
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My name is Louai Al Zouabi. I came from Syria in April 2015. Life in Syria became difficult and I felt unsafe for myself and my family. My family and I went to Jordan and lived in a camp for four years. The health conditions and the living arrangements were not good in the camp.
We applied for refugee status and were accepted to move to the United States. We knew we will be safe there and were happy to move.
Once we arrived in the United States, we realized that there will be a lot of work we need to do. New language, new culture and learn new systems. We received help from the resettlement agency to which we were assigned, USCRI in Dearborn. The staff there was very supportive and provided us with the guidance necessary to be able to do the things we needed to do, such as learn English, enroll our children in school and find employment. I knew from the beginning that I did not want to stay home and live on public assistance, I wanted to work and provide for my family, but also to help others just like others helped me when I needed it.
My case manager informed me of a great program, Individual Development Account (IDA), that helps working refugees save money to purchase a car. I enrolled in this program and I attended financial literacy classes and saved money from my paycheck every month until I was able to buy a car. Now, I have my own business as an Uber driver. Having this job gives me the flexibility to also help others in my community, as this was my goal from the beginning. I can provide transportation for those who cannot afford it, especially refugees in their first few weeks of arrival in the United States.
My family and I are grateful to live in a peaceful country and to be able to rebuild our lives in a welcoming community.