Resources
The best collaboration happens when all parties are as informed as possible. That’s why we want to provide the resources and knowledge we have so that it’s available to anyone looking into getting involved in this effort. We have compiled links to forms we give out at our trainings, handbooks from other organizations we have used as examples, and any other miscellaneous reading materials we thought could be of use to you.
Basic Definitions
Ever wondered what the difference between refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants really is? Here’s a handy reference for you to use.
Sample Agreements
If you have attended our trainings, you will know that we recommend faith communities to sign agreements with the people who will be sharing your space. These samples are meant to be rough guides and we encourage you to write your own in order to make it specific to your space and your needs. We have much more guidance to give around these agreements which we go over in our trainings, so please note that we encourage you to attend a training or reach out to us to talk further regarding these plans.
Handbook for Congregations
Courtesy of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee
This handbook was created for the Congregational Accompaniment Project for Asylum Seekers (CAPAS) by the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC). Their model is very similar to ours and we have drawn a good deal of inspiration from their work. This handbook also includes sections on how to get involved in immigration justice work, which we believe is a key component of this effort as well.
Please note: we are not a part of CAPAS and our model does differ slightly. There are also some sections that give advice, financial figures, and other information that may not be applicable in our cases here in Chicago. Please use this handbook as a general guide and come to us with any specific questions.
Supporting Asylum Seekers Toolkit
Courtesy of Episcopal Migration Ministries
Episcopal Migration Ministries welcomes refugees, educates communities, and mobilizes congregations to advocate for the protection and rights of all refugees and migrants. They have created a Toolkit for Congregations who wish to welcome and support asylum seekers, and the link below includes instructions on how to request this toolkit, as well as a video recording of a webinar they hosted in 2019 on this topic.
Please note: we are not a part of the Episcopal Migration Ministry programs and our model does differ slightly. We offer the link to this resource only to supplement the information we give that is specific to our program here in Chicago.
Resource Guide for Immigrants in Illinois
Courtesy of the ICDI and IDHS
Know Your Rights - Conozca Sus Derechos
Courtesy of the National Immigrant Justice Center
The NIJC is an amazing resource for many things, and their page linked below is a great overview to share with recently arrived immigrants in Chicago. The page has the option for Spanish or English and has some downloadable resources if you scroll down to the bottom. This is a fantastic touchpoint you can use to get information to those who need it and make sure the people you are accompanying and supporting are as informed as they can be.