Executive Summary

The Center for Empowering Refugees and Immigrants (CERI) was founded in 2006 with and for survivors of the genocide in Cambodia. Since then, CERI has grown into an expansive community-led mental health organization caring for the healing and livelihood of Cambodian, Burmese, Laotian, Vietnamese, Nepali, Tibetan, Bhutanese, Rwandan, Filipinx, Afghan and other deeply neglected immigrant and refugee communities. CERI serves hundreds of community members each year, led by a 40-person staff providing care in over 13 languages and reflecting the communities served.

CERI’s model of care was inspired by the community’s resilience, wisdom, and lived experiences. Our mental health team provides compassionate, culturally-affirming, and justice-oriented therapy for individuals and families. Our dedicated advocacy teams help people to access housing, food, and medical care, and defend against deportation. We also provide cultural programs, leadership development, and support groups for women, elders, youth, LGBTQI+ community members, differently abled-community members, and formerly incarcerated community members. CERI also participates as a coalition member and service provider to help organize for the freedom of community members being targeted for deportation and incarceration. Every service offered is free.

Community members shape every aspect of CERI’s work. In our annual gatherings and events, community members come together across racial, ethnic, and cultural boundaries. We celebrate life and each other through singing, dancing, music, and delicious food. Seeing our community members thrive has been the greatest affirmation of our approach, and has sustained CERI for over 17 years.

Organizations may provide budget and employee data based on this proposal or the organization as a whole. For more information on this proposal or organization, please email us.