NELO IMMIGRANT AND COMMUNITY SERVICES (NICS)

Supporting and making positive differences in an individual’s life.

2. Aim at building a healthier Black immigrant and newcomers’ population. NICS envision Black communities where holistic healing is not only accessible but also embraced as an integral part of personal and communal growth. Through our multifaceted approach, we strive to contribute to the creation of a resilient, empowered, and flourishing community where every individual feels valued, heard, and supported in their pursuit of holistic well-being. With collaborative efforts, let us work towards collective well-being and empowerment

Organizational Report

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

I welcome the opportunity to present our annual report for the fiscal year 2022-2023. This year has been characterized by a multitude of transformations, advancements, and an unwavering dedication to the individuals we serve. My vision for NICS was clear from the outset – to establish a platform that goes beyond conventional services. I envisioned an organization that not only acknowledges the challenges faced by Black communities (immigrants and refugees) but actively works to equip them with the tools, resources, and support necessary for success in a society replete with obstacles.

NICS is a non-profit organization that provides a platform for individuals to find a sense of community, opportunities, and support. NICS is founded on compassion and empathy, ensuring that individuals receive assistance, a sense of belonging, and prospects for growth to their full potential. I shall persist in guaranteeing that the 3 individuals we serve remain the primary focal point of our attention. Our organization and the wider environment in which we operate have lately experienced substantial changes. The challenges and opportunities presented by these changes have demonstrated NICS's ability to improve and have sparked our eagerness to adjust and introduce new ideas.

During the previous year, we initiated the development of a strategic plan. As we progress, we have encountered and taken advantage of this chance to envision our organization and its position in the community. I deeply appreciate the exceptional abilities and qualities of everyone in this organization, and I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work together with such an outstanding team. The enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to imagine ambitious objectives have been a testament to the resourcefulness and passion of NICS Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers, who have championed change and explored innovative methods to support the communities and individuals we serve. As we confront the difficulties and possibilities that await us, our combined endeavours will persist in generating profound and significant change that is a driving force for advancement. This has prompts us to critically examine the existing state of the organization, modify our approaches, and surpass the limits of what is achievable.

To conclude, I express my sincere gratitude to all those who have contributed to our journey. This would not have been possible without your belief in our mission. Your commitment to our mission has been a guiding light, and I am truly honored to share the collective accomplishments we have achieved together over the past year. In the upcoming year, following our strategic plan, we will collaborate with existing outstanding community partners and actively seek out new organizations and individuals who align with our vision. This will enhance our collective ability to address complex challenges and create inclusive communities.

Sincerely,

Dr. Dorothy Anthony CEO

Summary

Nelo Immigrant and Community Services has touched the lives of more than 70 individuals and families, providing them with education, an after-school program, peer-to-peer mentorship, community outreach, providing community spirit, food through culinary training, employment support, recreational activities (African cultural dance), skill building-sewing and shoemaking, counselling, mental health and wellbeing, and holistic trauma healing through various workshops 4 and trainings and recently, shoe making. The contributions of our donors have been instrumental in fostering the positive impact. Our various programs include Youth Program: Facilitating opportunities for young individualsto gain valuable work experience. We create pathways for young people to acquire significant work experience. By providing guidance on career development, resume building, and interview techniques to better equip participants for employment success. Through educational and recreational activities, NICS engages and empowers youth. NICS creates cultural and inter-cultural community building by creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity, fosters understanding, and promotes positive interactions among individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Youth develop a sense of community—physical, emotional, and social—and increase self-esteem and leadership in an equitable environment.

Skill Acquisition: Providing training and resources to develop valuable skills for personal and professional growth, such as sewing and shoemaking, to create an embracing community.

The Shoe Making: The initiative encourages young self-employment and entrepreneurship and provides mentorship. This effort shows our conviction in empowerment, mentorship, and their transforming potential on our community members, especially the youth and immigrants we serve. Sewing: NICS holistic sewing program is dedicated to empowering individuals through the art of sewing. Our program caters to both beginners and those looking to enhance their sewing skills. It is a transformative journey that empowers individuals to sew their aspirations into reality. NICS empowers and instills confidence in participants, allowing them to express themselves creatively through sewing.

Holistic Trauma Training: We offer comprehensive training to address the mental health and emotional well-being of individuals in our community.

Cultural Dance: Healing through African cultural dance and drumming. Celebrating and preserving cultural identity through dance and artistic expression. Cultural dance offers a positive outlet for energy, contributes to improved self-esteem, and provides a space for youth to express their identities through the art of movement.

Peer-to-Peer Mentorship: Understanding the significance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of a new culture, NICS places a strong emphasis on mentorship programs. Dr. Dorothy's role as a mentor herself has inspired a culture of guidance and support within the organization, ensuring that immigrants, particularly the youth, have access to mentors who can provide insights and advice based on shared experiences.

After-School Program: Offering a safe and enriching environment for continued learning and development.

Culinary training: The primary goal of culinary training is to cook a healthy and nutritious meal for their mental well-being and to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic and rewarding world of culinary arts.

Community outreach is a powerful tool for NICS to create connections, foster collaboration, 5 and make a positive impact on the community we serve. We create specific goals needed for the community we serve.

Employment Support Program at NICS plays a crucial role in assisting individuals in their efforts to secure and maintain gainful employment by providing assistance with skill development, resume composition, and interview preparation. We facilitate employment for seekers by offering support, resources, and guidance to ensure successful job placement. We focus on helping individuals obtain and maintain employment. NICS conducts one-on-one counselling sessions with clients to evaluate their career objectives and build unique employment strategies.

CULTURAL DANCE

Participating in cultural dance offers individuals a distinctive way to manifest their heritage and sense of self. By means of the symbolic movements and rhythmic beats ingrained in cultural dances, young people are able to connect with their roots, commemorate their history, and develop a positive sense of self. The affiliation with one's cultural identity functions as a safeguard against mental health difficulties, boosting a robust sense of personal value and dignity. Cultural dance functions as a means of relief and emotional healing. Individuals employ expressive gestures and dynamic movements as a means of self-expression that surpasses the limitations of verbal communication. It has been demonstrated that the harmonic quality of dance decreases stress hormones, thereby fostering a state of tranquilly and emotional health. Engaging in this imaginative mode of communication serves as a therapeutic tool facilitating the navigation and processing of intricate emotions. Community and Social Support: Cultural dance participation frequently transpires in a communal environment, cultivating a feeling of inclusion and social assistance. Individuals form bonds through the shared experience of dance, thereby establishing a network of support that transcends the boundaries of dancing. The presence of a strong sense of community is vital in addressing emotions of exclusion and isolation, thereby making a positive contribution to mental wellbeing through the cultivation of a nurturing atmosphere that fosters mutual understanding and connection. Individuals channel their positive energy, enhance their self-esteem, and manifest their identities through dancing and medium of movement

Nelo Immigrant and Community Services (NICS)

Building a healthy Black community and multicultural society

2024-2025 ANNUAL REPORT

Message from the Executive Director

I am profoundly proud of the milestones we have accomplished together at Nelo Immigrant and Community Services (NICS) as I reflect on the past year. Our work has been fundamentally rooted in our mission to empower individuals and families, with a particular emphasis on immigrants, refugees, and marginalized communities. In 2024, we provided services to approximately 200-300 families and individuals through various programs designed to promote community engagement, skill development, and wellness. This annual report underscores our ongoing dedication to confronting critical service gaps, the impact of our key initiatives, and the importance of our work. We thank our staff, volunteers, partners, and donors for contributing to this year's success

DorothyA

Dr. Dorothy A (Founder & Executive Director)

Program Highlights

1. Wellness and Emotional Support for Youth

In 2024, youth wellness continued to be a top priority. Through workshops and trauma-informed practices, we offered: We have conducted counselling sessions with more than 50 young people who have received individual and group therapy that is specifically designed to address tension, anxiety, and trauma. Peer support organizations were available in NICS. Through monthly sessions, youth could establish connections, exchange experiences, and develop resilience.

Workshops: The subjects of the workshops included mental health awareness, mindfulness, the impact of racism on mental health, food to eat on mental health, including substance abuse, addiction, suicide and mental resilience, and coping strategies for the transition into adulthood. Impact: 87% of participants reported improved emotional well-being and increased confidence in handling challenges.

2. Youth Employment Support - We expanded our employment support services in response to the obstacles that numerous young people encounter when attempting to enter the workforce. Among these were resume writing and interview preparation seminars, which were attended by 60 young people. In order to provide job placement assistance, NICS collaborated with local businesses to secure positions for 30 young people, both full-time and part-time. NICS conducted a series of seminars on the setup and administration of small businesses, including the production of shoes and bags, as part of its entrepreneurship training. Impact: 40% of participants secured employment within three months of completing the program.

3. Arts and Skill Acquisition - Arts and creative expression have been practical personal growth and community development tools. This year, we implemented new skill acquisition programs, such as painting, photography, and seminars, which attracted more than 50 participants. We worked on acquiring skills in bead-making, sewing, and other crafts, in addition to culinary training, which benefited 40 individuals. We marked the accomplishments and creativity of the participants, and the youth organized and exhibited an art exhibition.

Impact: Participants gained new skills, with many reporting increased self-esteem and several launching small businesses based on their training.

4. Picnics and Camps - Our recreational programs fostered a sense of belonging and connection. Highlights include:

60 youth attended our annual youth camp, which focused on team-building, leadership development, and outdoor activities. During our community picnics, NICS organized four events that brought families and individuals together for relaxation and bonding.

Impact: These events strengthened community ties, with 95% of attendees expressing a deeper connection to NICS and their peers.

5. Bead-making and Sewing Workshops

These skill-based workshops offered practical training for youth and adults, focusing on economic empowerment. Outcomes included bead-making classes, with 40 participants learning jewelry design and crafting techniques. During our sewing workshops, 30 participants attended and gained skills in garment construction, learning how to use a sewing machine, threading needles, cutting pieces of fabric, and choosing the best stitching technique for different fabrics and repairs. Sessions of entrepreneurial guidance on pricing, marketing, and selling handmade products like beads and constructed garments were held.

Impact: Several participants started small businesses, with others using their skills for personal and family needs.

Addressing Critical Community Needs

In 2024, NICS continued providing essential support for settlement services and advocacy for newcomers through Immigration assistance, housing and tenancy advocacy, language support, and cultural orientation sessions.

NICS trauma-informed and domestic violence support. We offered trauma-informed care and workshops for survivors of domestic violence, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress, creating safe spaces for healing and empowerment. Over 50 individuals accessed these services. We ensured further support for those in crisis.

Emerging Need: Legal Support

A key theme this year has been the urgent and unmet need for legal support among our clients. We received an average of 20-25 monthly legal inquiries, primarily related to immigration, housing disputes, and employment rights. As we look ahead to 2025, we plan to establish a dedicated legal program to address these critical issues and provide culturally sensitive, affordable legal assistance.

Statistics at a Glance - Individuals and families served: 150-200. Youth supported through wellness and employment programs: 100+ Workshops and training sessions conducted: 50 Community events hosted: 6

Introducing the Legal Support Program in 2025 - To address the growing demand for affordable and accessible legal services, NICS will launch a Legal support program in 2025. This program is designed to provide comprehensive legal assistance to individuals and families within our community. Key components include: Free legal services tailored to support immigration, housing, employment, and family-related legal issues. One-on-one consultations a personalized sessions with experienced legal professionals to address specific client needs. Workshops and information sessions which will be a regularly scheduled workshops to educate the community on legal rights, responsibilities, and available resources. This initiative is evidence of our dedication to addressing critical service gaps and guaranteeing that marginalized communities have access to justice and support. Our objective is to establish a program that is both responsive and effective, enabling individuals to effectively navigate complicated legal challenges by capitalizing on our strong relationships with community partners and legal experts. Looking ahead, we also aim to, expand our youth employment initiatives with new partnerships and training programs. Increase capacity for wellness and emotional support programs, ensuring every youth can access the help they need. Enhance our arts and skill acquisition programs, providing more creative and economic empowerment opportunities

Acknowledgment

We deeply thank our staff, volunteers, donors, and partners for their steadfast support. We have significantly influenced the lives of families and individuals in our community. Let us continue in our efforts to build a more promising future in collaborative collaboration.

Nelo Immigrant and Community Services (NICS)

Empowering Communities, One Step at a Time