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Welcome to the heart of African Immigrants Community Services (AICS)— our Services Page. Here, we layout a spectrum of programs meticulously designed to address the unique needs of immigrants and refugees in the Twin Cities. Explore the transformative initiatives that define AICS.
In the heart of Minnesota, a new chapter begins for East African refugees as they step onto unfamiliar soil, seeking refuge and hope. From emergency housing to navigating public benefits and finding employment, their journey is complex. At AICS, we offer comprehensive support in Somali, Amharic, Arabic, and English. Our dedicated staff bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, guiding families through societal norms and providing warm referrals. Join us as we empower refugee families in the Twin Cities to build brighter futures
In the bustling streets of Minnesota, a group of young individuals found themselves at a crossroads. Caught between the barriers of low-income backgrounds and uncertain futures, they longed for a glimmer of opportunity. This is where African Immigrants Community Services (AICS) stepped in. With a vision to uplift and empower, AICS launched its youth employment program, tailored for those aged 16 to 24. Fueled by both state and federal support, and guided by local workforce development organizations, the program set out to transform lives.
Young people receive comprehensive training in vital skills such as resume writing, interview preparation, and teamwork, significantly enhancing their employability prospects.
Engaging in paid internships or on-the-job training allows young individuals to gain invaluable work experience and a heightened sense of responsibility, increasing their appeal to potential future employers..
The program provides essential career counseling and additional services, enabling young people to explore diverse career options and make well-informed decisions about their education and training pathways.
Our commitment to building strong communities extends to the health and wellness of families. The Healthy Communities Programs at AICS provide a pathway for families to learn about practices that enhance their well-being and options for improving their health status. AICS is not just about survival; it’s about thriving.
African Immigrants Community Services is collaborating closely with the Minnesota Department of Health to enhance accessibility to Covid-19 testing and provide robust support to the Somali and East African refugee communities. Ensuring that families possess accurate information, can promptly identify Covid-19 symptoms, and take immediate steps to get tested in case of illness or exposure to a confirmed case is of utmost importance.
AICS, in partnership with MDH, operates as a community testing site. We provide both Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) saliva tests and at-home antigen nasal swab tests, also known as “self-tests.” Covid-19 testing is available from Monday to Thursday between 9 AM and 3 PM. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Covid-19 testing:
Community health and wellness is at the core of AICS’ mission. Healthy families make strong communities that thrive and prosper. Refugee communities have suffered trauma which affects their health and peace of mind. AICS provides workshops, outreach, and support for individuals and families to make healthy choices and access community resources. What may seem like common knowledge in mainstream society is not necessarily known within refugee communities, i.e. addiction, mental health issues, second-hand smoke, poison control. The Healthy Communities programs are a pathway for families to learn about avoiding practices that undermine their health and wellness, and options for improving their health status.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of empowerment, support, and positive change? Explore our services, get involved, and make a difference.AICS is not just an organization; it’s a community that thrives on compassion,unity,and transformation. Join us in building a brighter future for all.