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YMCA International Services

YMCA International Services YMCA International Services is a unique center of the YMCA of Greater Houston. Immigration Legal Services

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Our office helps refugees, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations in the Greater Houston Area through comprehensive services including legal aid, resettlement, case management, employment services, and education. It was established in 1978 in response to a large influx of refugees from Southeast Asia and addressed the immediate resettlement needs of those individuals and families who were fl

eeing from persecution in their home countries. Since that time, YMCA International Services has developed into a multi-service agency that provides holistic services to Houston's refugee and immigrant communities, with a special focus on facilitating and fostering self-sufficiency. Additionally, YMCA International Services is a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accredited agency offering services in a variety of languages. Employment Services

Helping newcomers find employment is a critical part of the integration process to the USA. The Y provides mutually beneficial employment services to Houston businesses and clients. Individuals find work that allows them to support families and become self-sufficient while businesses receive access to hard-working, qualified candidates. Our newcomer candidates are legally employable individuals who take pride in their work. We facilitate a smooth transition to enter the workforce and collaborate with businesses to ensure positive employer/employee relations. The Y helps newcomers find employment by providing support in these areas:

~Pre-interview screenings
~Job counseling
~Language training and career enhancement
~Interpretation
~Transportation
~Case management/support services
~Work gear (tools, uniforms, etc.) Education Services

Eligible students can improve their lives with free practical courses and workshops on topics such as learning English, preparing for exams, or navigating the job market.

~Refugee Youth Mentoring Program

The mentoring program promotes educational and vocational advancement among refugee youth (15-24), while supporting positive civic, social, and family engagement with the help of dedicated volunteer mentors.

~Citizenship Preparation Courses

Clients learn about the naturalization process, the N-400 application, interview process, and the exam which covers English and Civics topics.

~Pre-High School Equivalency Courses

Clients study for a high school equivalency exam (GED or Hi-SET) using a curriculum that caters to non-native English speakers. Classes focus on academic reading and writing skills like the American essay style and plagiarism. In addition, clients are introduced to the topics on the tests: math, science, and social studies.

~Job Readiness Workshops

Classes focus on resume building, job searches, interview preparation, and more.

~Cultural Orientation Workshops

Workshops acclimate newcomers to American culture and systems. Topics include hygiene, transportation, and hurricane preparation.

~English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses

Students learn practical English on topics like going to the doctor or paying bills. We are here to help. Click Here: https://stoptxeviction.org/

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~Free and Low Cost Immigration Legal Services – Full range of immigration legal services to low-income, non-detained community members, including: family based petitions, US Citizenship, DACA applications, Lawful Permanent Residency applications, asylum, and employment authorization.

~Detained Adults: Comprehensive legal services provided to adult immigrants detained in the four Houston-area detention facilities. Services include: Legal orientations, pro se legal assistance, court appointments for detainees deemed mentally incompetent, direct representation in the Immigration Court, appeals and federal court litigation.

~Immigrant Survivors of Crime and Trafficking – Targeted legal services to immigrant survivors of crime, particularly survivors of human trafficking (T visas), victims of other types of violent crimes (U visas) and individuals eligible for relief under provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

~Unaccompanied Immigrant Minors – Broad spectrum of legal services for detained and non-detained Unaccompanied Minors from initial apprehension throughout the life of the case. Our legal staff provide Know Your Rights presentations, immigration and state court representation, appeals and federal litigation. Case Management Program for Unaccompanied Immigrant Minors

~Home Studies – Ensure that children who are released from government custody enter into a safe and sanitary environment, ensure they will not be further victimized or traumatized while their immigration case is decided.

~Post Release Services – Ensure released children’s medical, physical and emotional needs are addressed thru referral and direct services. Trafficked Person’s Assistance Program

~Comprehensive Services for Victims of Human Trafficking – Victim centered, trauma informed case management for both foreign born and domestic victims of human trafficking (s*x and labor). Case managers work alongside professionals from law enforcement, the justice system, welfare systems and other community service providers to help survivors have a voice and choice throughout their recovery

~Counseling – Mental and behavioral health counseling with a dedicated full time Licensed Professional Counselor.

~Child S*x Trafficking Victim Advocate Program – Advocates play an essential role in providing intensive emotional support, advocacy, and case management for survivors so they may be diverted from “the life” and improve their chances of recovery. The Advocates serves as an intensive support system for minor victims of s*x trafficking.

Operating as usual

The YMCA offers everything you need to connect with others, achieve wellness goals and try new things. Enjoy a variety o...
02/25/2023

The YMCA offers everything you need to connect with others, achieve wellness goals and try new things. Enjoy a variety of group exercise classes and virtual options, innovative equipment and premium amenities at a place where you can achieve, connect and belong. Join our YMCA family today! ymcahouston.org/join

The YMCA of Greater Houston would like to thank RODEOHOUSTON on Go Texan Day for their generous contributions to our Apa...
02/24/2023

The YMCA of Greater Houston would like to thank RODEOHOUSTON on Go Texan Day for their generous contributions to our Apartment Outreach STEM Enrichment program. Their generosity made it possible for hundreds of children to have a safe place with caring mentors where they can learn and thrive during their out of school time. “The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is proud to support the Community Outreach - STEM Enrichment program. Education is a key component of the Show’s mission and the YMCA of Greater Houston’s commitment to providing resources and opportunities to underserved youth is commendable.” RODEOHOUSTON
Visit https://bit.ly/3Y1Fj7T to learn more about our community-based opportunities.

Texas takes in 10% of the nations refugees with many making their new home in Houston. YMCA International Services helps...
02/23/2023

Texas takes in 10% of the nations refugees with many making their new home in Houston. YMCA International Services helps refugees, immigrants and other vulnerable populations in the Greater Houston Area achieve self-sufficiency and start a new life. By making a donation, you will directly impact the lives of those who need us most. Give today. ymcahouston.org/give

The YMCA offers adaptive swim lessons to provide children and adults with disabilities the chance to learn swimming skil...
02/22/2023

The YMCA offers adaptive swim lessons to provide children and adults with disabilities the chance to learn swimming skills to stay safe around water. Swim lessons are customized to the needs of the child to teach personal water safety and achieve basic swimming competency. Everyone can learn skills to prevent drowning. For more information and to register, visit https://bit.ly/3InKqJV

Our semi-private personal training options are the perfect fitness plan if you enjoy making progress, working out and co...
02/21/2023

Our semi-private personal training options are the perfect fitness plan if you enjoy making progress, working out and connecting with friends and partners. You receive personalized coaching while being challenged together to meet your goals. Find out more at https://bit.ly/3tBNDyv

02/20/2023
Be The Change Campaign

Donors lay the groundwork for our organization to accelerate innovation, expand community outreach programs, uplift Christian principles, and advance inclusion and belonging. Support to our Be the Change Annual Campaign provides scholarships and subsidies to ensure all can participate, regardless of their financial situation. In 2023, the YMCA of Greater Houston needs to raise $16 million to empower youth, build healthier families and foster inclusive communities, today, tomorrow, and forever. We invite you to be the change and donate today. ymcahouston.org/give

The Future Is Now! Lead, learn and serve this summer as a Leader In Training (LIT)! Open to teens ages 13-15, the LIT pr...
02/19/2023

The Future Is Now! Lead, learn and serve this summer as a Leader In Training (LIT)! Open to teens ages 13-15, the LIT program is an 8-week summer experience providing teens with opportunities to gain positive workplace experience and development, leadership skills and develop positive peer friendships. All interested teens must complete an application and successfully complete the LIT interview process. Applications are open now and will close April 1st. ymcahouston.org/programs/community/y-teen-life

Mindfulness can help keep your anxiety in check. In a feature in The Washington Post, an 8-week mindfulness program was ...
02/19/2023

Mindfulness can help keep your anxiety in check. In a feature in The Washington Post, an 8-week mindfulness program was found to be just as effective at reducing anxiety as medication. Here are the key activities participants in the program engaged in:

· A class with a mindfulness teacher once per week

· Daily mindfulness exercises at home

· A one-day mindfulness retreat midway through the 8 weeks

Want to learn about mindfulness and begin some mindfulness exercises yourself? Join a group class like our weekly ZOOM Mindfulness Meditation on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm. Reserve your spot in a class today. https://bit.ly/3Edrvjp

Bring your friends and bring on the rewards! This weekend, bring a friend to try the Y as a guest and if they join, we w...
02/19/2023

Bring your friends and bring on the rewards! This weekend, bring a friend to try the Y as a guest and if they join, we will waive the last week's membership fee. Also, through our member referral program, you can earn a month of membership dues on us each time one of your friends or family members joins the Y. Whether it’s through a workout buddy, or friends joining a youth sports program to feel a bit more confident about a new experience, it all attributes to an amazing sense of community belonging at the Y. https://bit.ly/3Klmrxo

Our After School team is dedicated to helping your student achieve academic success. The YMCA curriculum aligns with the...
02/17/2023

Our After School team is dedicated to helping your student achieve academic success. The YMCA curriculum aligns with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards for each grade level. This supports your student in demonstrating their course knowledge and skills by the end of the academic year. Help your child make the grade by signing up for the YMCA After School program today at ymcahouston.org/after-school.

Join our community partners, Houston Texans,   and the YMCA for the Houston Texans Kids Triathlon on April 15 & 16 at Ty...
02/16/2023

Join our community partners, Houston Texans, and the YMCA for the Houston Texans Kids Triathlon on April 15 & 16 at Typhoon Texas Waterpark. In its 10th year, the race is open to kids ages 6-17 and is great for triathletes of all skill levels and abilities with short and long course triathlons, a splash & dash, and NEW this year a youth para-triathlon and invitational division for elite youth triathletes. Register today! https://bit.ly/3DlDb3m

Are you curious to learn more about the YMCA of Greater Houston’s premier overnight summer camp? Fast forward to summer ...
02/16/2023

Are you curious to learn more about the YMCA of Greater Houston’s premier overnight summer camp? Fast forward to summer 2023 and get a sneak peek at what camp is all about at the Camp Cullen Open House on Sunday, February 19 from 1-4 pm! This event is a great introduction to the program for potential new campers and a perfect refresher for those that are returning after a few years away. Tour the beautiful facilities, meet the staff and enjoy some crowd-favorite camp activities. Campers that attend the open house and register for camp during their visit will receive $100 off their session!

To learn more or to register, call 936-594-2274. Or visit ymcacampcullen.org

This week, YMCA leaders from across the country are meeting in Washington D.C. as part of National Advocacy Days to advo...
02/15/2023

This week, YMCA leaders from across the country are meeting in Washington D.C. as part of National Advocacy Days to advocate on behalf of policy issues that advance the Y's work. They learn about the Y’s legislative priorities, hear from federal officials and other partners about how the Y’s work aligns with national priorities and meet virtually with congressional members to tell the story of the Y’s impact in communities.

The Y is a space for everyone to feel welcome. From Yoga and Zumba to free weights and from pickleball to senior social ...
02/14/2023

The Y is a space for everyone to feel welcome. From Yoga and Zumba to free weights and from pickleball to senior social opportunities, there are plenty of options no matter your age or interest. Grab a friend, join the Y today and try something new. ymcahouston.org/join

Spring break and summer are approaching and it's not too late to reserve your spot in one of our day camps! Offered at l...
02/14/2023

Spring break and summer are approaching and it's not too late to reserve your spot in one of our day camps! Offered at locations all around the Houston area, day camp participants will have a blast in a safe, enriching environment, surrounded by positive role models. Youth are divided by age group, allowing each participant to make their mark in camp. Our focus on achievement, relationships and belonging will help your child make new friends, develop independence and try new things. https://bit.ly/3RY4B5j

Today is the day to RESTART! It's week one of our RESET challenge and it's not too late to sign up. Our goal is simple: ...
02/13/2023

Today is the day to RESTART! It's week one of our RESET challenge and it's not too late to sign up. Our goal is simple: YOU CHOOSE your next healthy habit and we give you the tools and motivation to help that new habit stick.
21 Days, hit RESET and find your 2023! Did we mention there are prizes? Text RESET to 844-889-6222 to get started.

02/12/2023
S.P.I.R.I.T. Summit

On January 14, YMCA of Greater Houston's Y Teen L.I.F.E. program hosted the 2023 S.P.I.R.I.T. Summit in partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston and the Department of Justice on the Texas Southern University campus. The Summit provided a hands-on leadership and learning opportunity for teens to take ownership of issues in their schools and communities and develop resolutions for change. For more info on Y Teen L.I.F.E. visit https://ymcahouston.org/programs/community/y-teen-life

Spring registration for Miracle League competitive and recreational leagues has started! YMCA Adaptive Sports provides p...
02/11/2023

Spring registration for Miracle League competitive and recreational leagues has started! YMCA Adaptive Sports provides players, regardless of their ability, the opportunity to play sports. Each player dresses in an official uniform and plays the game just like their peers with the help of a buddy. The game is geared to each player's ability level, and there is no registration fee to play. Register today because spots are limited. https://bit.ly/3YIxkgz

On our wellness floors, you'll find a wide range of tools to help you achieve your fitness goals whether they be weight ...
02/10/2023

On our wellness floors, you'll find a wide range of tools to help you achieve your fitness goals whether they be weight loss, muscle building or general health. You'll also find an encouraging community to help you on your fitness journey. Get started towards your next level of health today at ymcahouston.org/join

Show the love, share the Y! Share what you LOVE about your Y membership with your friends and share the rewards. Refer a...
02/09/2023

Show the love, share the Y! Share what you LOVE about your Y membership with your friends and share the rewards. Refer a friend to the YMCA and if they join, you’ll receive a month of membership dues on us for your referral. Your friend will pay no pro-rate fees when they join AND gain an awesome workout partner. ymcahouston.org/member-referral

Who doesn’t love to PARTY with a PURPOSE?! Join Y Teen L.I.F.E. this Saturday, February 11 from 4-9 pm as we recognize t...
02/08/2023

Who doesn’t love to PARTY with a PURPOSE?! Join Y Teen L.I.F.E. this Saturday, February 11 from 4-9 pm as we recognize teen dating violence awareness month through education, creativity and a dance party. Party with a purpose will include: sounds by DJ SwaggyB, food, prizes, games, painting with a twist and a TikTok room. Resources and a hands-on workshop will be provided by Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council-Expect Respect Program. The event is open to teens in middle through high school and tickets for entry are required. https://bit.ly/3CeNTIH

On February 7, 1886, a group of Houston businessmen met at the old Pilot Opera House on Franklin Street to plan a Young ...
02/07/2023

On February 7, 1886, a group of Houston businessmen met at the old Pilot Opera House on Franklin Street to plan a Young Men’s Christian Association for the city. Soon after its launch, YMCA quarters were rented in a building downtown at Main Street and Texas Avenue. It featured a gymnasium, reading room, games room, parlor and lecture room. It wasn't until 1941 that the YMCA was able to own and open it's very own building downtown. Today, the YMCA serves over 320,000 people in the Greater Houston area providing a wide array of programs and membership services to empower youth, build healthier families and create inclusive communities.

Spring sports registration begins today! The benefits of team sports span much further than just exercise. Sports help y...
02/06/2023

Spring sports registration begins today! The benefits of team sports span much further than just exercise. Sports help your child build character, develop key skills, teach sportsmanship, foster community and have FUN! Register your child for a team today. ymcahouston.org/sports

Black History Month and the remembrance is not only deeply meaningful for the African American community, but imperative...
02/06/2023

Black History Month and the remembrance is not only deeply meaningful for the African American community, but imperative for the greater understanding of U.S. and world history. The U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are an indelible part of our country's history. Check out a few ways to celebrate Black History Month in the City of Houston. https://bit.ly/3YbedvW

It's not too late to sign-up for 2023 reset Challenge. One new healthy habit, 21 days, beginning February 13! Our goal i...
02/05/2023

It's not too late to sign-up for 2023 reset Challenge. One new healthy habit, 21 days, beginning February 13! Our goal is simple: YOU CHOOSE your next healthy habit and we give you the tools and motivation to help that new habit stick.
21 Days, hit RESET and find your 2023! Text RESET to 844-889-6222 to get started.

February is American Heart Month and today is National Go Red Day! Join us in wearing red today to raise awareness about...
02/03/2023

February is American Heart Month and today is National Go Red Day! Join us in wearing red today to raise awareness about the risks of cardiovascular disease. Studies show physical activity helps control high blood pressure, strengthens your heart and reduces stress. Find a class at the Y that you love and get your heart pumping! Visit ymcahouston.org/group-exercise-classes to check out all our offerings.

Play ball! Miracle League at the Y provides children and adults with disabilities the chance to play baseball in a safe,...
01/29/2023

Play ball! Miracle League at the Y provides children and adults with disabilities the chance to play baseball in a safe, fun atmosphere. Spring league registration is now open! The Y offers competitive and recreational leagues and there is no fee for registration when using the code MIRACLE2023. Sign-up today. ymcahouston.org/adaptive

Join our community partners, the Houston Texans, and the YMCA for the Houston Texans Kids Triathlon on April 15 & 16 at ...
01/27/2023

Join our community partners, the Houston Texans, and the YMCA for the Houston Texans Kids Triathlon on April 15 & 16 at Typhoon Texas Waterpark. This is the largest kids triathlon in the world and is open to kids ages 6-17. The event is great for triathletes of all skill levels and abilities. Registration prices increase on February 1, so register today! https://bit.ly/3DlDb3m

As we begin a new year, it is a great time to pause and reflect on what boosts your mental well-being—and what you’d lik...
01/27/2023

As we begin a new year, it is a great time to pause and reflect on what boosts your mental well-being—and what you’d like to do differently to enhance it in the coming year. To make mental well-being a priority in your life in 2023 requires intention, as it can be easy to fall back into old patterns and habits. Consider reflecting on a few simple questions:

- What helps to boost my mental well-being?

- What tends to be missing in my life when I struggle with mental my well-being or feel high levels of stress or anxiety?

In light of these answers, what is one small thing I could start doing today to change this pattern in 2023—and who can I ask to support me with this?
How will you make your mental well-being a priority in 2023 and who will you ask to help you? We’d love to hear in the comments below!

Type 1 diabetes also known as Juvenile diabetes increases by 1.9% each year, while there is no known way to prevent Type...
01/26/2023

Type 1 diabetes also known as Juvenile diabetes increases by 1.9% each year, while there is no known way to prevent Type 1 Diabetes building a community of support for those families impacted is important.

PROJECT SPREAD1NG THE WORD was created by Bethany L. a Y Teen L.I.F.E. Changemaker and Type 1 Diabetic. Through the PROJECT SPREAD1NG THE WORD Workshops, Bethany, the PSTW team and medical professionals will offer support to communities though hands-on learning and group support. Registration is required and refreshments will be provided!

https://bit.ly/3CeNTIH

01/26/2023
YMCA360 Reset Challenge

One new healthy habit, 21 days, beginning February 13! The reset challenge is ready to help fuel the start of 2023 for you. Our goal is simple: YOU CHOOSE your next healthy habit and we give you the tools and motivation to help that new habit stick.
21 Days, hit RESET and find your 2023! Text RESET to 844-889-6222 to get started.

The YMCA of Greater Houston continues to monitor severe weather conditions in our area. The safety of our members, parti...
01/24/2023

The YMCA of Greater Houston continues to monitor severe weather conditions in our area. The safety of our members, participants and our staff is our top priority. Please visit ymcahouston.org/weather-update for further details on program changes.

The recovery aspect of your wellness journey is just as important as the effort you put into your hard workouts. At the ...
01/24/2023

The recovery aspect of your wellness journey is just as important as the effort you put into your hard workouts. At the YMCA, we offer tools and environments for you to achieve health longevity. From our foam rollers and steam rooms to our yoga and low impact classes, we help you maximize your recovery so you can achieve your goals. Embark on your wellness journey at ymcahouston.org/join

Signing up and showing up to exercise with one of our certified personal trainers allows you to focus on your journey wi...
01/23/2023

Signing up and showing up to exercise with one of our certified personal trainers allows you to focus on your journey with specific, defined health goals. Our trainers provide accountability, structure and encouragement to take you to the next level. Start achieving your goals now at ymcahouston.org/personal-training

Address

3110 Hayes Road , Suite 300
Houston, TX
77082

General information

The YMCA was created by young people trying to navigate their way in a new city, far from family, friends, and a familiar way of life. Welcoming and engaging newcomers has remained an important part of the YMCA movement, with Y’s around the world providing individuals and families the integration support they need to better transition into their new communities. YMCA International Services is a unique center of the YMCA of Greater Houston that delivers client-centered programs to refugees, immigrants and other vulnerable populations to advance their economic independence, social integration and civic participation. The Y helps newcomers restore hope, build stability, create opportunity and change futures. YMCA International Services is continuously recognized as a leader in the Houston immigrant community.

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

(713) 339-9015

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when YMCA International Services posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Videos

Category

Our Story

Services and Programs at YMCA International Services: Refugee Resettlement YMCA International’s resettlement program assists refugees who are forcibly displaced from their native countries due to persecution based on their race, religion, ethnicity, political opinion or because they belong to a particular social group. The resettlement program provides housing, food, basic supplies and temporary financial services. Refugee Employment YMCA’s Employment Department works with employers in the Houston area to fill staffing needs from our qualified pool of refugee candidates. Our goal is to provide employers with the best possible applicants, at the same time assisting new arrivals to our country quickly reach self-sufficiency. The Trafficked Persons Assistance Program (TPAP) TPAP is a program working to identify and assist U.S. national and foreign national victims of human trafficking. We seek to improve the quality of life for victims of human trafficking through culturally competent case management, to raise awareness in the community through outreach and education, and to collaborate with law enforcement and other social service providers Immigration Services YMCA International Services provides high quality legal representation to clients seeking immigration counseling or asylum, as well as civil legal services of crime, including “T” Visas, “U” Visas, and VAWA. Educational Services The YMCA’s Refugee Educational Services Program provides refugees the information necessary for a smooth integration into their new community in a variety of ways. Our Cultural Orientation Program informs the refugees about local and national culture. The Education Department also provides a Pre-HSE (High School Equivalency) exam preparation program for those refugees whose English skills do not allow for entry into a standard GED or Hi-SET preparation course. Clients can begin their US citizenship journey through our Civics program. We prepare clients for the naturalization exam and interview. Join us for ESL (English as a Second Language) courses that run throughout the year. Youth Development In an effort to provide support and services to the local immigrant community, we offer several programs designed to provide safe, supervised activities for youth. Our youth programs include sports for children and teen development. The YMCA also partners with local HISD elementary schools to offer care during the after school hours for children in grades kindergarten through fifth grade.


Comments

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To Whom It May Concern Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUjcmzScMvE&feature=youtu.be
Support our recent immigrants from Afghanistan and Iraq!

No One Left Behind - Houston, TX Chapter is officially getting started next weekend. Come on out to George Bush Park, Pavilion 1, on Saturday, May 4th. We will have free food from Afghan Village and Shinwari, as well as games and a bouncy castle for the kids! 11am-3pm. https://www.facebook.com/events/586625025188846/
does your organization know of any bicycles for homeless veterans programs????
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