Social Innovation Forum
We are living in a time when the world feels not only unpredictable but increasingly difficult to navigate. A prime example of this unpredictability can be seen in the ongoing changes to immigration policies. These shifts are impacting not only immigrants themselves but also the nonprofits working tirelessly to support them.
Today, we want to highlight three nonprofit organizations that continue to serve immigrant communities despite these challenges. We are going to take the time to recognize their efforts and values.
Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI-USA)
The first organization we’re highlighting is the Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI-USA), whose mission is to center the voice of immigrants and expedite their successful integration into the social and economic fabric of the United States with justice and dignity. Their programs serve children, teens, and adults through educational support, legal services, and workforce development.
Children benefit from after-school programs and opportunities to explore the performing arts while maintaining academic success. Teenagers and adults have access to training that equips them with skills for future careers. According to Orla Schwarz, Partnership Coordinator at IFSI-USA, the goal of these programs is to “build pathways to stability, economic mobility, and full participation in civic life.” She emphasizes that these services shouldn't be seen as acts of charity, but instead as “essential contributions to the strength and future of our entire community”.
Project Citizenship
The second organization, Project Citizenship,provides free, high-quality legal services to permanent residents to help them become U.S. Citizens.. In addition to offering legal assistance, the organization educates clients on the rights and benefits that come with citizenship.
According to Gail Breslow, “over 90% of eligible immigrants don’t apply for U.S. citizenship”. Project Citizenship seeks to change that by making the naturalization process more accessible. Project Citizenship provides critical protections and access to education, healthcare, employment, and the right to vote. The organization views its work as a vital part of democracy-building and social justice.
English for New Bostonians (ENB)
The third organization is English for New Bostonians (ENB). Their mission is to empower immigrant families by providing access to English language education, a crucial step toward advancement and integration—especially in difficult times.
One of their key programs, ESOL Pathways, serves students at all levels of prior education. The goal is to help learners strengthen their language skills while preparing for career advancement. As Executive Director, Claudia Green notes, “Even if people are afraid to attend in person, they will attend online and keep pushing forward”. These classes serve not just as educational spaces but as supportive communities where students find strength, purpose, and direction.
Finding Hope in the Work
Despite the many challenges they face, these organizations continue to find hope—and they find it in the communities they serve. “We draw hope from the unwavering determination of our clients, the generosity of our volunteers and donors, and the partnerships we’ve built across sectors,” says Schwarz. “Even in moments of political division, we see people come together—neighbors helping neighbors, local businesses offering training opportunities, faith communities rallying to support our students… These acts, large and small, reaffirm that our shared humanity is stronger than the challenges we face.”
Gail Breslow adds, “Project Citizenship is inspired by our clients who are relentless advocates for themselves and their communities, and by all of our volunteers and partners. We are stronger together.”
Claudia Green echoes that inspiration: “It is immigrant workers, community and business leaders, and everyday people who are finding their own voice and the courage to push back—or simply stay the course—that inspires us and keeps us going each day.”
At SIF, we are grateful to these organizations for their dedication, their honesty, and their ongoing commitment to immigrant communities. We hope this post shines a light on the critical work they do—and the hope they continue to inspire.