Clinton Twp., MI - The Refugee and Immigrant Navigator Program (RAIN) assists in easing the transition to an unfamiliar workforce for legal refugees, asylees or work authorized immigrants. The RAIN program helps identify and overcome barriers hindering the ability to find gainful employment after immigration.
“The RAIN program has been pivotal in building a bridge between community refugees, immigrant partners and Michigan Works!,” said Aydi Naisan, refugee and immigrant navigator for Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! (M/SC MW!).
Michigan is expected to welcome about 1,300 Afghan arrivals starting in December. Due to the increase of immigrant arrivals in Michigan, resources and services are widely available to help those arriving transition to living in a new country, including the RAIN program.
“We will be working with Afghani refugees and asylees to help their resettlement and post resettlement period,” said Aydi.
The RAIN program provides crucial resources for arriving immigrants to ensure career success, including career advising, education programs, job search assistance and more. Additional services are also available to help eliminate the barriers for finding a career such as housing, health care, transportation and other public assistance. With expert guidance from the refugee and immigrant navigator, participants will be able to identify and resolve barriers surrounding employment.
“We look forward to the opportunity to continue this much needed service as new arrivals begin to increase," said Susan Paternoster, PATH coordinator for M/SC MW!.
For more information and inquiries, contact the Refugee and Immigrant Navigator, Aydi Naisan, at
About The Macomb/St. Clair Workforce Development Board
The Macomb/St. Clair Workforce Development Board administers the Michigan Works! Service System in Macomb and St. Clair counties. Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! is an equal opportunity employer/program. Supported in part by state and/or federal funds. A proud partner of the American Job Center network. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Michigan Works! agencies oversee comprehensive services designed to help employers access a skilled workforce and help job seekers access satisfying careers. Programs also include workshops to prepare youth and unskilled adults for entry into the labor force and help individuals who are disadvantaged or who face serious barriers to employment develop skills through training that leads to employment and ultimately economic self-sufficiency.