CHICAGO — Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the New Neighbors Campaign, a new initiative aimed at standardizing and simplifying the volunteer process to support new arrivals. This campaign was developed in partnership between the Mayor's Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights, the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services, and the Chicago Department of Public Health as well as mutual aid partners including ChicagoCares, Chicago Refugee Coalition, and AmeriCorps VISTA.

"The New Neighbors Campaign embodies Chicago's spirit of unity and compassion," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "By incorporating volunteers through trusted mutual aid partners in a defined and secure way, we are able to serve this vulnerable population."

"And through fostering collaboration among community members, mutual aid groups, aldermanic offices, and city agencies," Mayor Johnson continued, "we are creating pathways for new arrivals to thrive and contribute to our vibrant tapestry of cultures."

ChicagoCares, a long-standing leader in community partnerships, will leverage its expertise to build connections and support networks across the city's South and West sides. The Chicago Refugee Coalition, committed to providing innovative and dignity-centered relief services, brings invaluable experience in serving refugees in the Chicagoland area. Additionally, AmeriCorps VISTA members, known for their capacity-building efforts, will empower nonprofit organizations and public agencies to facilitate volunteer service and community engagement.

Phase One of the New Neighbors Campaign was launched last week, supporting partners such as the City Clerk's Office, The Resurrection Project, and New Life Center in providing opportunities for volunteers to engage in activities ranging from TPS workshops to donation drives.

Phase Two will involve volunteers being connected to service opportunities in and out of shelters to propel community connection & recreation.

Interested organizations that would like to be a part of the New Neighbors Campaign should reach out to the Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights to be put in contact with ChicagoCares for additional support and for volunteer opportunities. 

Interested volunteers should visit Chicago Refugee Coalition’s The Hub landing page at: thehub.chicagorefugee.org

###