During the summer of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to work as an Upstate Institute Summer Field School Fellow with the Mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees, known as The Center. The mission of The Center is to promote the well-being and self-sufficiency of refugees and immigrants by providing essential services such as citizenship assistance, job searching, driving lessons, and more. Their efforts support integration and growth, fostering an inclusive environment where newcomers can thrive and contribute to the community's cultural and economic vitality.
I had the privilege of collaborating closely with The Center’s director of strategic initiatives, Jennifer VanWagoner. Together, we gathered and analyzed data from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the official New York State website. This data included important metrics like maternal health, rental statistics, and educational attainment. Our goal was to compile this information into accessible graphs that Jennifer could use to develop programs that further The Center’s mission. If you are interested in learning more about The Center’s work, you can visit their website.
Through this experience, I gained a deep appreciation for the role of data in nonprofit work. I realized the importance of having a wealth of organized information readily available for grant writing and program development. My work wasn't focused on finding specific data points but rather on creating a comprehensive collection of charts and graphs to support Jennifer’s efforts in developing programs and seeking funding.
One of the highlights of my summer was participating in World Refugee Day, June 8, 2024, a special occasion where many refugees celebrated receiving their citizenship. The day was vibrant with performances from various cultures and an array of food trucks offering delicious treats. It was truly heartwarming to see the community come together in support of one another.
In addition to the event, I had the pleasure of engaging in activities such as food shopping and setting up apartments for new arrivals. Throughout the school year, I volunteered at The Center to assist with teaching, so it was wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces and catch up with friends over the summer.
I have always been passionate about community work, and this position was a perfect fit. As an education studies major, I understand the importance of data and its applications. This experience has equipped me with valuable skills that I can use in the future, especially if I decide to pursue grant writing. I am grateful for the time I spent at the Utica Refugee Center and wish them continued success in all their future endeavors.