Our Story

The New American Consortium for Wellness and Empowerment, formerly called the Refugee Consortium of North Dakota, was founded in 2015 by leaders of 3 ethnic community-based organizations in the F/M Area. The Consortium was created out of need to streamline funding and provide more of a structure to maximize resources for these communities, as well as many others. Many of the ethnic communities had similar needs so instead of duplicating service, we were created as an umbrella organization that could allow the communities to maintain their own unique identities, while still building social connections and making the most of the resources we have to offer.

Our office space is called the “WE Center” – WE for Wellness and Empowerment, but also “we” for community. We hope to not only provide resources but to also be a gathering place where newcomers and community members can come together. Our vision is to promote wellness and empowerment for new Americans by building bonds amongst people, bridges between diverse communities, and links to other organizations. Through our celebrations and programs, we will facilitate trusting relationships and create healthy partnerships in the greater Fargo-Moorhead area.

The Consortium consists of African Initiative for Progress, Giving + Learning, the United Liberian Association of North Dakota, and Chira Global Association, but we provide services to any New American outside of these organizations. We are led by a diverse group of community members who make up our Board of Directors and our office is run by a group of part-time employees and dedicated volunteers.

To volunteer or learn how you can be involved, check out our Volunteer Opportunities page or email us for more information at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook to receive event updates and learn more about our partner organizations in the community.