September 13-22 is Welcoming Week, a national campaign that connects neighbors of all backgrounds through activities that help us reflect on our welcoming values, foster a mutual understanding between immigrants and non-immigrants and build a deeper sense of belonging for all. Let's get ready for this community-building initiative together: from a captivating StoryWalk® to thought-provoking discussions, we’re coming together to imagine what it takes to build a welcoming community. Whether you’re a book lover, a curious soul, or simply someone who believes in the power of unity, Welcoming Week is your chance to make a difference. Join us as we celebrate stories, share experiences, and build bridges that span cultures and backgrounds.
Stories of Welcoming MiniseriesAs part of the Stories of Welcoming miniseries, join us on August 14 to hear from local subject matter experts about refugee resettlement and newcomer integration. Then, on August 21, watch and discuss the 9News documentary “Una Vida Nueva” (A New Life). This powerful film follows the journeys of migrant families to Colorado. Journalist Angeline McCall spent a year documenting their experiences, and she’ll share insights during the event. It’s an opportunity to gain empathy and engage in meaningful dialogue about the challenges faced by newcomers.
Casa de Paz Donation Bin
At Arapahoe Libraries, we believe in community support. That’s why we’ve partnered with Casa de Paz, opens a new window, an organization that provides housing, meals and assistance to immigrants released from the ICE detention center in Aurora, CO, to accept a limited selection of nonperishable items for donation: adult backpacks, baseball hats, travel size toiletries, individually packaged, nonperishable snacks, no longer used, but functioning cell phones and cell phone chargers of all kinds. These items help Casa de Paz guests complete their journey to their loved ones with dignity. These donations are accepted at our Koelbel location. Check out Casa de Paz' Wish List, opens a new window for additional ways to help.
Welcoming and Belonging Storywalk®
The Welcoming and Belonging Storywalk® is a heartwarming initiative that combines literacy and community engagement. Imagine strolling through an outdoor space, encountering sequential signage displaying pages from a picture book. Each sign not only features a page from the bilingual Spanish/English book “Nieve en la jungla” (Snow in the Jungle) but also includes a bilingual conversation starter. This Storywalk sparks conversations about immigrant welcoming and belonging, fostering curiosity and understanding.
Welcoming Week is a time to celebrate diversity, foster understanding and create spaces where everyone feels valued. Join us in making a difference!
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