WHAT:

Anyone interested in U.S. Refugee Policies should attend "The Long Road Home" Refugee Forum, which includes presentations from a refugee service provider, Patricia Gillem of Catholic Social Services, Charles Shipman of the Arizona Refugee Resettlement Program, and a local refugee. Participants will have the opportunity to formulate their own answers to the forum's focal question of, "What can Arizona communities do to better respond to the needs of refugees resettled in their areas?"

Two additional forums will be held throughout the month of February at ASU West and Mesa Community College (MCC) pertaining to different questions concerning refugee issues. They include:

• What can individuals do to assist refugees both home and abroad? - ASU West
• What is the US government's role in improving refugee conditions globally? - MCC
  
  A summary of each group's input will be presented at the Town Hall meeting on Feb. 24.

WHEN:

February 17
(6 p.m. - 8 p.m.)

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

Students and community members who have an interest in the needs and services of refugees in our area are encouraged to attend this event.

WHERE:

Phoenix College
Bears' Den - Lower Level of the Hannelly Center
1202 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ

SPONSORS:

This event is sponsored by InterAction and the Institute of Cultural Affairs (IAC). Interaction is the largest alliance of US based international humanitarian and development organizations, and is organizing a series of town hall meetings across the country aimed at engaging the American public on the importance and impact of international assistance programs. ICA is a global network of non-governmental organizations strengthening the capacity of individuals and communities for positive social change.

QUESTIONS:

For additional information on the "The Long Road Home" Refugee Forum, please call 602-285-7968.

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