MEIRS is proud to serve as a resettlement agency under the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC), facilitating the smooth transition of refugees into their new lives in Maine. Through our Reception & Placement program, we provide comprehensive support to ensure that refugees feel welcomed, safe, and empowered from the moment they arrive.

Our dedicated staff works diligently to prepare housing for incoming refugees, ensuring it is furnished and ready for their arrival. We go the extra mile by personally greeting refugees at the airport and assisting with transportation to their new homes. To provide a warm welcome, we offer culturally appropriate, hot meals upon arrival, ensuring that refugees feel nourished and comforted in their new surroundings.

MEIRS recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships to effectively serve newly arrived refugees. We actively engage with schools, social service agencies, employers, and local government entities to establish strong connections and enhance support systems for refugees settling in Maine. Our ultimate goal is to empower refugees to achieve economic and financial independence, fostering self-sufficiency and long-term success.

As part of our resettlement efforts, MEIRS provides a wide range of essential services, including:

♦ Job Readiness Training

We provide comprehensive job readiness training to equip refugees with essential skills and knowledge for the U.S. job market. This includes resume building, interview preparation, workplace etiquette, and understanding employment laws and rights. Our training programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of refugees and address any cultural or language barriers they may encounter.

♦ Job Placement Assistance

MEIRS has established strong partnerships with local employers across various industries. Our dedicated employment specialists work closely with these employers to identify job openings that align with the skills and qualifications of our refugee clients. We facilitate job placements by matching refugees with suitable employment opportunities and coordinating interviews and job fairs.

♦ Vocational Training and Skill Development

For refugees who require additional training or skill development to access certain job sectors, we provide vocational training programs. These programs offer specialized instruction in fields such as healthcare, construction, hospitality, IT, and more. By acquiring industry-specific skills, refugees can enhance their employability and access a wider range of job opportunities.

♦ Language and Communication Support

We recognize that language proficiency is crucial for successful employment. Our employment services include language support programs that help refugees improve their English language skills, both in general communication and in job-specific contexts. We offer language classes, conversation groups, and workplace language training to enhance their language abilities and boost their confidence in professional settings.

♦  Job Retention and Advancement

Securing employment is just the first step. MEIRS is committed to ensuring that refugees not only find jobs but also retain them and have opportunities for career growth. We provide ongoing support and mentorship to help refugees navigate workplace challenges, adapt to new environments, and develop strategies for career advancement. We also offer guidance on professional development, networking, and accessing additional educational or training opportunities.

♦ Employer Engagement

To foster successful partnerships between refugees and local employers, MEIRS actively engages with businesses and organizations in the community. We promote awareness about the skills and contributions that refugees bring to the workforce and advocate for inclusive hiring practices. Through employer outreach and collaboration, we aim to create employment opportunities that are mutually beneficial for refugees and the local economy.