WHY URIO

The United States has long served as a destination for displaced persons fleeing conflict, persecution, and disaster. Yet, many refugees and immigrants arrive in the United States with hope but often find themselves lost in a system that was not built with their lived realities in mind. The challenges are not only language or paperwork though it’s lack of culturally grounded guidance, after hours support, and trusted community voices who can explain the basics in the way that make sense. These gaps leave many refugees feeling unwelcome, unheard, and overwhelmed, even when resources technically exist.

URIO was founded and built by individuals with lived experience of displacement, along with community stakeholders, refugee leaders, refugee social/case managers, and faith-based leaders, who recognized the urgent need for culturally responsive, volunteer-driven, and community-based support.

URIO exists to:

• Promote dignity, belonging, and empowerment of refugees and immigrants.

• Provide practical support and advocacy beyond formal resettlement services.

• Create safe spaces for storytelling, talent development, and civic participation.

• Foster resilience, inclusion, and intercultural understanding.

Vision:

A society where refugees and immigrants are not only safe but also empowered as leaders, contributors, and cultural bridge-builders.

Mission:
To advance the integration and empowerment of forcibly displaced people in the U.S. through community-based support, storytelling, advocacy, and recognition of lived experience as expertise.