The WES Mariam Assefa Fund aims to empower immigrants, refugees, and migrants by supporting their leadership and advocacy efforts. The fund focuses on shifting power to these communities, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions that affect them. Through participatory grantmaking, the fund collaborates with leaders from these communities to shape initiatives that build more inclusive futures.
The Elevating Migrant Leadership: Building Inclusive Futures Funding Opportunity is intended for U.S.-based non-profits that help build vibrant and inclusive communities by focusing on immigrants, refugees, and migrants. The program supports the development of civic leadership and advocacy skills among these groups, enabling them to effectively influence programs and policies impacting their lives. Organizations selected will receive $100,000 grants and access to peer learning, capacity building, and other programming. The grants support projects in at least two of three key areas: Narrative Building, Experiential Learning, and Mentorship. This initiative underlines the importance of involving immigrants and refugees in shaping their futures and strengthening their community influence.