Thrive Academy:

Our goal is to ensure that every asylum seeker has the tools and skills needed to achieve independence and stability after graduating from our program. That’s why we created Thrive Academy, an educational initiative that provides practical training and learning opportunities to support residents on their journey.

Thrive Academy Includes:

• ESL Classes: In-house English instruction three times per week to improve language skills and build confidence.
• Finance Class: A quarterly course covering budgeting, saving, and personal financial planning.
• Systems Navigation: A 10-week course on finding work, understanding American workplace culture, getting a driver’s license, and using public transportation.
• Stress Management: A 10-week class teaching coping strategies, mindfulness, and time management.

We are always looking for ESL teachers, substitutes, and volunteers to help with resume building and job readiness—join us in empowering our residents! Sign up, here. 

Case Work:

DASH employs a full-time case worker who connects residents to essential resources, such as medical and dental clinics, clothing banks, schools, and employment services. This one-on-one support is essential for helping residents transition to self-sufficiency.

Legal:

Navigating the U.S. asylum system is complicated and costly. In a brand-new initiative created in response to the changing political climate, DASH now helps residents with affirmative asylum claims secure discounted legal representation. DASH pays half of an attorney’s retainer fee, while the resident pays the remainder through a payment plan once they begin working. This new initiative ensures residents have expert legal support, which is increasingly critical under shifting immigration policies.

To learn more about Affirmative Asylum vs Defensive Asylum Claims, click here. 

Mental Health:

DASH partners with the Center for Survivors of Torture (CST) to provide on-site trauma-informed mental health care. Each week, a CST clinician meets with residents at the DASH building, offering private, in-house counseling tailored to the complex emotional needs of asylum seekers.

While this partnership has been a vital resource, current services are primarily available in English. We are actively seeking partnerships with Spanish-speaking trauma counselors or programs to ensure that all residents, regardless of language, receive the emotional support they need. If you or your organization can help fill this gap, please email hello@dashnetwork.net.

Graduation: 

After receiving their work permit, residents begin a 5-7 month “graduation phase.” During this time, they work to find employment, secure housing, save for a deposit, and, in some cases, purchase a vehicle. This phase gives them the financial and emotional runway they need to launch into independence.