“I’m Encouraged.”

“I’m encouraged.” It’s probably not a phrase you’re hearing a lot, or seeing in Facebook comments, or reading on headlines. So let me tell you why it’s true for me.

I’m encouraged by what the last 3 months have proven.

That the work we’re doing can go on, despite significant disruptions in the typical pathways. That people inside and outside of the mid-Missouri area care about people who have had to flee their home countries. That there is still each day’s growth, grieving, hope, and joy- and that we get to receive and share it together.

I’m encouraged by Terry, a long-time supporter of City of Refuge who has often been the source of much delight, as his home-grown watermelons and tomatoes fill the tables in the community center (and then quickly disappear!). Just over a year ago, Terry wanted to do more, to challenge himself by navigating language barriers. He wanted to get better at connecting with the people he was seeing on his regular trips to a Vietnamese NGO without the limitation of English dependence. So he started volunteering as a front desk greeter, investing in City of Refuge in a new way, and accomplishing a personal goal! Although now retired from his front desk role, Terry is still often found volunteering at our Markets and Back to School Bash, and lately has been enjoying lunch at City Cuisine! I’m so encouraged by the stories he brings from continued visits to Vietnam, and his ongoing care for the world.

I’m encouraged by Darius, an intern who has been pivotal in developing and supporting our English and digital literacy classes. Each Tuesday & Thursday, you can find him upstairs, sitting next to an adult learner as they work through a lesson, or building resources to support volunteers working with newcomers. His consistency, commitment, and humility are really neat to witness.

I’m encouraged by what happens in our community center. Parents bringing in their newborn baby to meet our staff and be delighted (celebrated? fawned?) over; Families carrying heavy decisions, coming through our doors to seek guidance from a trusted Care Coordinator, and being met in their grief with deep empathy; A driving student proudly pronouncing new words like “yield” and “roundabout.” There’s tissues, there’s laughter, there’s multiple languages being spoken- the sounds of living and being human, together.

I’m encouraged by a friend, excited to support participants in our Poem-A-Thon.

I’m encouraged by a family member, hundreds of miles away, becoming a monthly giver.

I’m encouraged by checks and handwritten notes in the mail, a sandwich baggie of change from generous kids, enthusiastic and passionate coworkers, the ability to pick up the torch and offer more services to refugees in our community.

There’s much to be encouraged by. So let me encourage you to join in!

If you haven’t been following along with what’s new at City of Refuge, please go check out Debbie’s latest update. The short of it? We’re stepping into refugee support in new ways, and we need monthly givers! $10, $25, $50, $100 - any of it truly helps! Small, consistent giving makes us stronger and more sustainable as federal grant funding comes to an end.

Additionally, if you like eating good food, or snagging a unique thrift find or handmade gift, you can support City of Refuge by shopping at City Boutique or sharing a meal at City Cuisine! All proceeds go right back to our mission of serving and empowering refugees.

Look for ways to join the causes you care about! Continue to be passionate, people of action. I’m so encouraged by what has been and what will be.

Brita Sjogren

Director of Communications