Iraqi Community Center of Washington (ICCW) serves as a multi-faced support network helping Iraqi refugees in Washington State make a successful transition to life in the United States.
Established in 1998, ICCW provides numerous human and social services, from early learning and after-school tutoring to housing support to numerous individuals and families in South King County and the Seattle area.
The organization’s mission is to build and empower a healthy and self-reliant community, develop strong leaders, and promote economic independence through direct assistance and capacity building.
Working with refugees from all walks of life
IRCCW’s after-school programs include homework help as well as project-based learning to engage students and inspire their creative imaginations. Weekly classes in both Arabic and English as a second language help youth and adults gain confidence in their communication skills. A support group for women provides a safe space for women to come together, develop basic skills, create and fine-tune their resumes, and learn about community resources.
“We make our constituents feel like they have a home, where they can go and be understood. … Our students are able to have a deeper understanding of real-world challenges and are encouraged to find solutions. ”
Iraqi Community Center of Washington
https://www.irccw.org
IRCCW programs
- Arabic and English classes
- Early learning and home visits
- After-school homework help
- Support with immigration, housing, social services
- Medical assistance and case management
- Employment
- Advocacy
- Women’s support program
- Referral to social, medial and legal service providers
Iraqi Community Center of Washington is one of 31 organizations receiving funding through King County’s Best Starts for Kids Quality Out-of-School Time program in 2018-2021. The grant enabled IRCCW to offer after-school and Saturday Arabic classes to about 25 Iraqi refugees in a Kent elementary school. Children in the program received support in academics and English while also preserving their cultural heritage. Learn more about Best Starts for Kids and School’s Out Washington.
