Dear Friends,

I would like to share a glimpse into what the last six months have been like at Canopy.  While it has been unimaginably difficult to operate with the constant federal changes, we have accomplishments to celebrate and moments of joy every single day.

Client Services

Canopy served 85 individuals across our employment programs, supporting job placements, career upgrades and more.  The employment services team jumped into action when the Cargill plant in Springdale announced its closure, and helped 7 former refugees secure new employment.

While 471 clients applied for their greencards, citizenship, and received referrals and other support through Canopy’s immigration legal services, we are deeply concerned about the hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants with humanitarian parole and temporary protected status who had their legal status suddenly terminated.

50 students participated in Canopy’s after school program, our biggest year yet.  Check out the video highlighting their work here

48 moms received education and connection to healthcare through our maternal child health program.  One mom even named her baby after her Canopy case manager!

Community Engagement

283 amazing community members volunteered with us this spring and summer as mentors, tutors and through other volunteer opportunities like these.

Canopy provided speakers or hosted 89 educational events to talk about the United States Refugee Resettlement Program and build connections between former refugees and long-time Arkansans.  We reached 5,081 people and have the goal to double that number by the end of the year.  Our aim is to provide transparency about our work and our role.  We would be glad to come to your business, school, civic group, or faith community.  Request a Canopy speaker here.

1,090 individuals, businesses and faith communities partnered with Canopy as donors, ensuring the work of welcome continues far into the future.  Please join us to provide the Long Welcome as a monthly donor here. 

Administrative Updates

Canopy’s two largest grants abruptly stopped when the federal government cancelled funding. We are still operating five federal grants and 12 foundation grants which enable continuation of key programming, along with the generous donations from our community.

Prior to the election, Canopy had a staff of 47 talented and compassionate welcomers.  Today, Canopy’s team is down to 33 experts in all aspects of refugee services and community integration.  If you are an employer, I hope you will have the opportunity to hire someone who has experience at Canopy.  They are the best people.

While the last six months have brought many challenges, we remain ready to welcome.  Canopy will always support our community and stay committed to our mission.

In appreciation,

 

Joanna Krause
Executive Director