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Nearly 200 clients, community partners and staff members turned out Oct. 24 for the grand opening of World Relief Wisconsin’s new Oshkosh office, 545 Monroe St.
The celebration included colorful balloons, tasty treats, henna art, trivia and updates about our success in welcoming newcomers to Wisconsin.
“Over the past 13 years, World Relief Wisconsin has grown from one site in the Fox Valley to a regional operation, serving both here and across the state in the Chippewa Valley. From a handful of staff members with the support of dedicated volunteers, we have grown to 54 staff members across the state, proud of a record number of Good Neighbor Volunteer teams. Since 2012, we have welcomed nearly 2,000 newcomers to our communities in Wisconsin—440 just in the last year,” said Gail Cornelius, regional director.
She stressed that World Relief Wisconsin’s work requires much collaboration from the community.
“To our community partners, your generosity and willingness to welcome refugees into our midst are testaments to the spirit of Oshkosh. I have seen your commitment to removing barriers, increasing understanding and changing systems to allow newcomer families to thrive. It is your support that multiplies the efforts of our team and allows us to serve a bridge for our new neighbors to be welcomed home.
“And to the refugees who walk through these doors, we welcome you with open arms. Your journeys,
though filled with trials, are also rich with resilience and strength. As you join our community, know that you are surrounded by people who care deeply for you and are eager to walk alongside you as you build new lives here.”
The office moved from downtown Oshkosh in September to be more accessible to our clients. The new location is in the Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh’s new Hyde Family Community Center on Monroe Street.
Check out our gallery of fun photos from the grand opening celebration:
