The Resettlement Project

Stories

  • North Hill library acts as hub of services for those new to U.S.

    By Jenna Bal When Maurice moved from Mexico to the North Hill area of Akron about one year ago, he felt like he was starting a new life.  “It’s all different,” Maurice said, “country, language. It’s another life completely.”  Maurice, referred to only by his first name for privacy, moved to North Hill when his…

    North Hill library acts as hub of services for those new to U.S.

  • ‘This makes a difference in your life’

    By Morgan McGrath Chelsae Poelking has been teaching English as a second language for the past two years, and every Tuesday night, she can be found in an Akron Crossings classroom, laughing with students as they collectively crack some jokes.  “God made all people valuable,” she said. “Everyone is valuable in his eyes, no matter…

  • Why one volunteer loves teaching English as a Second Language

    By Morgan McGrath Jake George, one of the many volunteers at Akron Crossings, has graying hair, and a welcoming smile.  George, an Indian-American who has been living in the United States for “many” years, as he puts it, spends every Tuesday and Thursday teaching English as a second language, or ESL, to refugees from around…

  • Overcoming barriers at Akron Crossings

    By Morgan McGrath Akron Crossings is in North Hill, tucked among a long stretch of residential areas. Bena Paisley is the founder of this non-profit, community-centric organization, and her central goal is to help refugees adjust to the United States through the guidance of Christianity.  “I encourage them [refugees] to be patient with themselves, and…