The Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington (IRCCW) recently held a heartwarming graduation ceremony for the 2024 cohort of its Arabic School Program. This event not only celebrated the academic achievements of the students but also highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and community support.

A Glimpse into the Arabic School Program

The Arabic School Program, one of IRCCW’s cornerstone initiatives, provides a robust educational foundation for elementary and middle-school-aged children in King County. Held weekly at Kent Meridian High School, the program offers a structured environment for students to enhance their Arabic language skills, ensuring they maintain a strong connection to their cultural heritage while integrating into American society​ (IRCCW)​​ (IRCCW)​.

The Graduation Ceremony

The 2024 graduation ceremony was a vibrant celebration of the students’ dedication and hard work. Families, friends, and community members gathered to honor the graduates, whose achievements symbolize the strength and resilience of the Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington. The ceremony included speeches from educators and community leaders, cultural performances, and the presentation of certificates to the graduates​ (Elevate Washington)​.

Empowering the Community

IRCCW, established in 1998, has been pivotal in supporting Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington in the Seattle area. Through programs like the Arabic School, the center fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among its members. By providing access to education, social services, and cultural events, IRCCW helps individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency and thrive in their new environment​ (IRCCW)​​ (IRCCW)​.

Looking Ahead

As IRCCW continues to grow and expand its services, the impact of its programs on the community becomes increasingly evident. The Arabic School Program is just one example of how the center is making a difference, offering a platform for cultural exchange and mutual support. The success of the 2024 graduates is a testament to the program’s effectiveness and the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity while embracing new opportunities.

For more information about the By celebrating these milestones, the Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington not only honors its students but also reinforces the values of community, culture, and education that are essential for the continued growth and success of IRCCW-Americans in Washington.

Center of Washington and its programs, visit IRCCW’s website.

By celebrating these milestones, the Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington Center not only honors its students but also reinforces the values of community, culture, and education that are essential for the continued growth and success of IRCCW-Americans in Washington.

The Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington (IRCCW) recently hosted a successful Ramadan dinner event, drawing community members together to break their fast and celebrate the holy month. Held at the center in Kent, WA, the event showcased traditional IRCCW dishes and featured inspiring speeches from local leaders, emphasizing the values of charity, compassion, and unity central to Ramadan​.

The dinner also served as a platform to highlight IRCCW’s various support programs, including educational and social services for IRCCW refugees and immigrants. Volunteers played a crucial role in organizing the event, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees​ ​.

For more information about IRCCW and its initiatives, visit IRCCW’s website.

By celebrating these important cultural events, IRCCW fosters a sense of community and preserves its rich heritage, promoting understanding and solidarity within the wider community.

Abbas Makassees has plans and a destination, but he often has trouble getting there.

So the IRCCW-American teen often turns to a conveniently located center, a hub tucked away in a modest, two-story building on Kent’s East Hill.

“It is really important, especially for teens with needs,” said the 17-year-old Kentlake High School junior. “It’s a place to gather for all of us … helps us get together and to get around. … You see, many of us don’t have a car.”

The Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington recently received the keys to a retired Metro Transit Vanpool van it will use to transport seniors and youth to events throughout the region.

For high school students, the van can make it possible for them to visit colleges, interview for a job or make an important appointment.

Transportation is among the many services the center provides as it continues to blossom as a go-to spot for many under-served people – primarily immigrants and refugees – from all walks, not just the Arabic-speaking community.

The center, established in 1998 as a nonprofit community-based organization centered in Seattle, has since spread its reach throughout South King County. Only recently has the center opened its doors in Kent, at 10610 SE Kent-Kangley Road, Suite 207.

The purpose of the center is clear, its demands great. The center continues to focus on providing culturally and linguistically competent social services to IRCCW refugees and immigrants in areas so they can become self-sufficient and make a successful transition to life here.

Yahya Algarib, the center’s executive director, said the center is making a difference. The hub’s many resettlement services throughout the region serve about 500 men, women and children each year, helping them gain their feet financially and to better assimilate socially and culturally to their new home.

King County Council member Dave Upthegrove presented to the staff of Kent’s Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington (IRCCW) the keys to a retired Metro Transit Vanpool van the center will be using to transport seniors and youth to events throughout the region.

The IRCCW is dedicated to ensuring the economic success and effective integration of Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington members through advocacy, culturally competent services, leadership development and civic engagement.

IRCCW will use the van to take high school students to visit colleges, community colleges, and various industry/job sectors.

“This van is going to make a difference in the lives of the students we serve,” said Yahya Algarib, executive director of the IRCCW. “We’re grateful for Council member Upthegrove’s interest in helping us add capacity, and we can’t wait to put the van to use.”

“It is often difficult for high school students to visualize the academic and professional opportunities available to them after graduation,” Upthegrove said. “I am thrilled to play a role in donating this van to the IRCCW, which will encourage more students to reach their potential.”

Added Jasim Al Ghuraibawi: “I honestly do appreciate this gesture from the King County government. They keep a good relationship with the American-Immigrants and Refugees Community Council of Washington and take care of its needs.”

The vanpool program provides mobility for a diverse array of King County residents, supports the positive work of various local organizations and relieves traffic congestion by reducing the need for single-occupancy vehicles.

“We choose organizations who do a lot (for the community with so little,” Upthegrove said. “They will make good use of (the vanpool van).”

Three other organizations in Council District 5 will be receiving surplus vans: