CEEDS program priorities:
Employment & Employment Skills Training including English as a Second Language: The Twin Cities area has outstanding programs available to immigrants. CEEDS will be a support to insure they are utilized.
Introduction to American Education: When applicable, new arrivals need to be encouraged to upgrade their education for better career opportunities.
Social Support: Wholesome, constructive social activity is necessary to diminish the sense of isolation that can come with relocation. Since the Congolese have a Christian identification, it is anticipated that local churches will be helpful in this effort.
Youth after school program including tutoring: This program is particularly important as both parents often work – some two
jobs. It is important that young people have supervised activities. Over the past thirty years other immigrant groups (particularly the Hmong) have had success with these programs
Crime prevention/Youth intervention: CEEDS works with local recreation centers and churches. Mentoring and sports programs will be initiated in near future.
Volunteer Opportunities: As noted above, it is important that new arrivals support each other. Volunteerism is a basic tradition in American culture and it is important that new arrivals incorporate it into their lifestyle.
