Office of Immigrant & Refugee Affairs
Message from Director
The Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs is a testament to the commitment of the City of Seattle to engage and empower its new residents. Seattle is home to the most diverse zip code in the country, and boasts strong community based organizations and partnerships.
I’m honored to be tasked with overseeing this laudable Office and intend to work diligently making sure we help individuals and families get the access they need to government – be it through social services, civic engagement, or economic assistance. In many cases, this will require input from the community and we cannot do this important work alone.
It is the diversity of our people that makes Seattle so successful and I truly believe that by working together and understanding each other’s cultures, we can continue to contribute to this city’s achievements. We must build the needed bridges between our various communities to strengthen and build the best city possible.
Please look around the website and contact us with questions, suggestions, or even to volunteer.
Together we can change the world.
My best
Magdaleno Leno Rose-Avila
Recent News
Utility Assistance for Low Income Residents
The City Hall Open House on April 6 will include a workshop on utility assistance for low income residents. The even also includes dance & acrobatic entertainment, food trucks, and adoptable dogs and critters.
4Culture Announces Funding Calendar for 2013
In 2013, 4Culture, King County’s Cultural Services Agency, will offer funding opportunities in the fields of arts, heritage and historic preservation. Free, weekly public workshops are scheduled throughout King County.
Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs director confirmed
I am pleased to welcome a new member to our City team – Magdaleno “Leno” Rose-Avila was confirmed by the City Council yesterday as Director of the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA).
Kicking off Safe Communities
The new public safety initiative, Safe Communities held the first large group meeting September 27th in the Southwest Precinct. More meetings are planned for October and November.