I am so happy to invite you to the New Jersey Consortium for Immigrant Children's Annual Immigrant Children & Youth Walk!

As most of you know, I joined NJCIC in May.  Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working for an organization that provides direct legal representation, advocates for policy initiatives and does so much more to support immigrant youth in my beloved home state. 

For me, as for many of you, this work relates directly to my personal story.  My parents both came to this country as minors. My father came as a refugee from Cuba at just 6 years old, and my mother came from the Philippines to finish her education at just 16.  Growing up, my father would tell me how he learned English in the local Catholic school cafeteria, struggling to put his tongue to his teeth and pronounce the word “the”.  My mother still reminds me often how she worked and studied her way through college as a young girl in a strange new place. 

This is all to say that, like many of you, I was reminded often of the challenges of immigrating to a new country.  These are difficult enough challenges when, like my parents, you have a strong network of family and enough money to afford legal help.  Many of the youth that NJCIC serves lack these critical resources.  But they are just as deserving of the opportunities for success in New Jersey as my parents were.  I’m so proud of the work my colleagues do to create more opportunities for our clients and for all immigrant youth in New Jersey.

Through this important work, we at NJCIC hope to make New Jersey live up to its promise as a place where young immigrants and their families can thrive—just as it was for my family.

How You Can Make a Difference

NJCIC is the only statewide organization with a mission to empower and support immigrant children and youth in New Jersey.

• ● Join the Walk: Bring your friends, family, and colleagues to walk with us and show your support.
• ● Donate: Every contribution, big or small, helps us continue our vital work.
• ● Spread the Word: Share our mission and the details of the walk on social media and within your networks.

Join us!