As we know each of you has experienced, this year has been full of challenges in so many ways. And, as is so often the case, the resettled refugee community faces these challenges with added levels of complexity and complication. In spite of this, our new neighbors lead us into becoming the type of community we should all aspire to be. With pervasive generosity to fellow neighbors and a sacrificial spirit that pressed into bearing each other’s burdens, neighbors sustained each other through shared resources that ensured everyone had what they needed for food, transportation, medical care, and shelter. They shared determination, shared joy, and shared inspiration to see the other side of such a challenging season. We have been mentored into a deeper understanding of community.
We have also been so moved by Spero partners’ support for our neighbors. We do not take for granted in any way the enormous strain on every individual this year, and we are incredibly grateful that the mission of making Oklahoma City a place of belonging has continued to draw tangible and financial support.
We continue to see that Hope Lives Here, and we are thankful for that every moment.
The Spero Team
Join us in taking a look at just some of what you made possible this year.
“No matter the circumstances in our life or how the world perceives us, The Spero Project always helps us discover the right path for our lives.”
-Juseppe
SPERO SUPPORT & COVID RESPONSE
This year has been such a critical time for our new neighbors to receive community support as they navigate complicated systems, schooling changes, city shutdowns, and more. Thanks to your support, Spero has partnered with neighbors in so many ways.
Providing translation and distribution of public health updates, Covid best practices, city ordinances, and more in over 10 dialects
Navigating changing workplace policies or unemployment processes
Providing additional safety nets for financial strains
Ensuring access to both general and Covid-related medical care and continued access to social services
Adjustments to Adult English, Citizenship, Pastoral Care, and Common Home programs to ensure neighbors continue to be welcomed with full supportive services in a safe environment
Spero partnered with over 350 neighbors through community support in 2020!
STUDENT SUPPORT
Covid-19 created many new obstacles to schooling for all of us, but our neighbors experienced added layers of complexity as they navigated these changes in a new language and culture. Because of your partnership, neighbors had access to crucial support.
Digital tutors met with students virtually multiple times each week
Translators assisted parents in understanding and applying all school communication and student assignments
The After School Program pivoted operations to a safe environment while ensuring families have access to support and assistance
Language-specific tutors provided intensive support in multiple minority dialects for language-learning students
Youth activities continued in virtual or outdoor/safe environments
100+ students received consistent care through Student Support programs!
“Thank you to our incredible team of translators who worked diligently to make sure parents and caregivers were able to support their students’ education. And we are so grateful for the dedicated tutors who met with kids throughout the year - we know your time was never wasted. Thank you for being patient and flexible, committed to being good neighbors even as so much changed through the year!”
-Spero Program Officer
MAKE 2021 A YEAR OF WELCOME!
Our neighbors have been welcomed in incredible ways because of your generosity and support! Thank you for all the ways you have partnered with and supported this mission. All year-end giving will ensure our neighbors continue to have access to the people, resources, and learning opportunities that make Oklahoma City a place of belonging.