By Anastasiia Polonska | Project Leader
From September 2025 through January 2026, the Human Migration Institute continued walking alongside refugees and newcomers through education, advocacy, and community-centered engagement. During these months, our work focused on creating spaces of learning, celebration, connection, and collective reflection.
On September 27, 2025, HMI hosted Double Header of Support: Resource Round-Up + Digital Skills for Afghan Families in Riverside, California. This full-day gathering brought Afghan newcomer families together to explore career pathways and build essential digital skills. Participants gained hands-on experience with email, Zoom, and navigating local services, strengthening their confidence, independence, and readiness for employment in an increasingly digital world.
A meaningful milestone followed on November 8, 2025, as HMI celebrated its 10th Anniversary Gala. The evening honored a decade of advocacy, service, and refugee empowerment, marking the organization’s growth from grassroots beginnings to sustained, community-driven impact. Supporters, partners, and community members joined us from across California, the United States, and abroad to reflect on the journey, celebrate shared accomplishments, and recommit to the work ahead.
Later that month, on November 22, 2025, HMI continued to represent its mission both locally and globally. Through participation in peacebuilding discussions in Athens and educational and community dialogues at UC Davis, HMI amplified refugee voices while building meaningful partnerships across borders and disciplines.
In early December, HMI took part in A Weekend of Purpose, engaging in panels, philanthropic gatherings, and community fairs throughout Southern California. These moments of dialogue and collaboration elevated refugee perspectives, strengthened partnerships, and increased visibility for refugee-led and refugee-serving initiatives.
The year drew to a close on December 11, 2025, with the Inland Empire Refugee Forum, co-hosted by HMI. The forum brought together organizations, community members, and stakeholders to reflect on the year’s progress and engage in thoughtful conversation about the commitments needed to support refugees in 2026 and beyond.
Alongside these formal events, on January 11, 2026, HMI also hosted a Winter Picnic of Connection and New Beginnings. This informal gathering created a warm and welcoming space for refugee families to connect, share food and culture, and nurture a sense of belonging during the colder months.
Together, these moments offer a glimpse into just a portion of HMI’s work during this season. While they do not capture the full scope of our programs and daily efforts, they reflect HMI’s holistic approach to its mission by integrating direct support, community building, and advocacy to create lasting impact. This work is made possible through the generosity of donors and partners who believe in dignity, opportunity, and belonging for all, as well as the dedication of our staff and volunteers. With continued support, HMI can expand its programs, deepen community connections, and stand alongside refugees as they build new beginnings. We always welcome new supporters to join us on this meaningful and beautiful journey.
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