MISSION AFRICA
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Mission Statement
For the past 18 years, Mission Africa has been at the forefront of ensuring the holistic well-being of children and families in Africa and African residents across Western Washington. Our work in education, healthcare and poverty alleviation empowers Africans and African immigrants to live vibrant lives by providing critical programs and resources for the entire family unit. We increase access points and provide culturally relevant programs, services and information that supports assimilation, and ongoing opportunities for connection to community and resources for long-term stability
About This Cause
Although Washington State has an exceptional track record of supporting and investing in immigrant populations, African immigrants have historically been underserved due to their minority status. According to Migration Policy Institute, the percentage of immigrants coming from Africa to Washington has doubled over the past 20 years. Despite this, the rate of immigrants coming from West Africa to Washington is only 1 percent of our total incoming immigrant population. This has resulted in fewer culturally appropriate programs for these families during a period of transition when connectedness is essential. Our work increases access points, providing interpreters and translated materials in major African languages, culturally relevant and specific services and information that supports assimilation, and ongoing opportunities for connection to community and resources for long-term stability. As families work to navigate a society laced with racist and xenophobic systems, we actively work to increase the mental resilience of those served. For adults, we create onramps to varying competencies and increase access to basic needs resources, and opportunities for economic growth, health, and wellness. For youth, we actively work to develop positive identity associations through leadership, advocacy, and life skill development programs. All of our programs honor the diversity and cultural richness of the different countries and values of those served while fostering community and ensuring families know they are not alone. As a community-based, community-rooted, and community-led organization with over a decade of consistent service to African families across Washington State, we pride ourselves on cultivating an inclusive and equitable culture. This is reflected in our intentional hiring practices, commitment to authentic program design, centering of community voice and need, and allocation of organizational resources. Our staff and board leadership embody the diversity of the African diaspora. We welcome and celebrate differences and work to ensure that all are equally engaged and invested, sharing power and responsibility for the organization's mission while not discriminating against any community that wants to participate in our programs. Equity is at the core of Mission Africa’s work, ensuring that BIPOC, immigrant, and low-income families in King County have access to educational, social, and emotional support. Through our robust Computer literacy program, annual African community leaders' gatherings, back to school community outreach events, Smiles at Christmas, Kids Summer Camps and many others, we create an inclusive space where children and families can learn, grow, and thrive while strengthening their cultural identity and community connections.