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New Roots: A Cultural Bridge for Immigrant Communities
New Roots is a culturally focused program created by WDC to empower immigrants who are building a new life in the U.S.—whether they’ve just arrived or have been here for years but still seek meaningful connection, resources, and opportunity. We recognize that the journey of immigration is filled with both resilience and real challenges, and this program is designed to walk beside those who are navigating life without traditional safety nets.
This program combines WDC’s full suite of core offerings—Economic Development, Workforce Development, and Multimedia Empowerment—with resources tailored to the immigrant experience. From small business development to workforce training and digital storytelling, we help individuals and families grow roots in their new home while honoring where they come from. Whether you’re here to build a business, find work, or connect with others, New Roots is a place to belong, to grow, and to thrive.
New Roots was built specifically for immigrants who are under-resourced or underrepresented—those who may be navigating language barriers, limited access to capital or networks, or simply adjusting to life in a new country. We are not a general-purpose program for all immigrants, but a focused initiative designed to uplift those who need additional support, visibility, and community.
Program Overview: Rooted in Support, Grown Through Culture
Participants in New Roots gain full access to all of WDC’s core development pillars:
- Economic Development – Technical assistance, business planning, access to capital, coaching, and mentorship.
- Workforce Development – Job readiness workshops, resume support, digital literacy, certifications, and employment connections.
- Multimedia Empowerment – Content creation training, storytelling support, business exposure via blog, video, and podcast platforms.
What makes New Roots different is its cultural framework. The program is intentionally designed to reflect the lived experiences of immigrants from a wide range of backgrounds, particularly those who are navigating structural barriers. We provide culturally sensitive guidance, language access, community connections, and space for storytelling—all while reinforcing the values of dignity, respect, and empowerment.
Whether someone is launching a business, searching for a career path, or simply seeking a community that understands them, New Roots offers the tools to build a strong foundation—economically, emotionally, and socially.
The Global Welcome Collective
Real People. Real Support. Real Community.
We know that navigating a new culture can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created the Global Welcome Collective, a peer-led support initiative within New Roots. At the center of this collective are our Welcome Ambassadors—immigrants from a variety of backgrounds who have been through the journey themselves and are here to welcome others into the program.
These Ambassadors serve as cultural guides, connectors, and community builders. They help new participants feel seen and supported from day one—whether that’s through attending events together, sharing insights, or just being a familiar face. By sharing their own stories and leading with compassion, they help others feel less alone and more empowered.
The Global Welcome Collective is more than a friendly gesture—it’s a powerful structure that turns community into care. Participants are never just recipients of services—they become part of a vibrant, interwoven network of people helping people.
Multilingual Access & Language Equity
Because Inclusion Begins with Communication
Inclusion isn’t possible without communication. That’s why New Roots offers multilingual content and translation support to ensure participants can fully engage with everything the program offers—regardless of their English proficiency. Key documents, program materials, and onboarding resources are available in Spanish, Amharic, Vietnamese, Arabic, French, and others based on community needs.
We work with native speakers and cultural liaisons to make sure translations are not only accurate but also culturally respectful. This includes translated flyers, welcome packets, event details, and instructions for accessing digital spaces like Zoom trainings or Discord.
This commitment to language equity ensures that no one is left behind simply because of how they communicate. It sends a clear message: you don’t need to change who you are to belong here. We’ll meet you where you are—and grow with you.
Community Circles: Building Belonging Through Culture
Within New Roots, participants are invited to join one of our optional Community Circles—regional affinity cohorts that offer space to connect with others who share similar cultural roots, languages, or lived experiences. These aren’t separate programs, but rather supportive spaces that foster identity, connection, and tailored support.
Current Community Circles include:
- West African Circle
- East African Circle
- Middle Eastern Circle
- East Asian Circle
- Eastern European Circle
- Latin American Circle
- Caribbean Islands Circle
Each circle hosts occasional meetups (online or in person), group chats, and cultural exchange opportunities. They are led informally by Welcome Ambassadors and evolve based on community input. These circles offer comfort, celebration, and a sense of shared journey while maintaining full access to the broader New Roots ecosystem.
Storytelling & Visibility: Sharing the Immigrant Experience
New Roots believes in the power of storytelling as a tool for healing, empowerment, and connection. That’s why we regularly feature participants through short videos, written blog posts, and podcast interviews that spotlight immigrant entrepreneurs, workers, families, and community leaders.
These stories do more than raise awareness—they build bridges between cultures, give practical advice to others walking similar paths, and change the narrative around what it means to be an immigrant in America. Participants gain visibility for their businesses, increased community support, and the personal empowerment that comes from being seen and heard.
By amplifying real voices through multimedia, we affirm this truth: every story matters—and every story has the power to uplift someone else.
Monthly Gatherings & In-Person Connection
In addition to digital resources, New Roots hosts monthly in-person community gatherings where participants can access free tools, build relationships, and connect with the broader WDC community. These events include a mix of resource-sharing, cultural celebration, professional development, and peer support.
Each gathering is designed to encourage cross-cultural connection—what we call “co-mingling with intention.” Participants meet not only others from their own background, but people from all over the world who are also rebuilding, dreaming, and striving. Whether you’re sharing a meal, attending a workshop, or exchanging contacts, these events foster belonging, collaboration, and community-led growth.
These gatherings are often the heart of the New Roots experience—where digital connections become real friendships, and individual dreams find collective support.
Ready to Join New Roots? Let’s Grow Together
New Roots is more than a program—it’s a community, a movement, and a place where immigrants are honored for who they are and supported in who they are becoming. We believe in your potential, your story, and your future. Whether you’re starting from scratch or just need a boost to reach the next level, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
By joining New Roots, you gain access to practical tools, supportive relationships, cultural celebration, and platforms to grow—economically, professionally, and personally. You don’t need to figure it all out alone. This is a space for collaboration, healing, creativity, and success.
Join us today and take the next step toward a stronger future. The journey starts here—and your roots can grow deeper than ever before.
Become a Volunteer: Help Us Uplift the Community
New Roots is made possible by people who care. If you’re passionate about creating an inclusive, supportive environment for immigrants, we invite you to become a volunteer for one of our initiatives. Whether it’s helping organize community gatherings, supporting our storytelling efforts, translating materials, or assisting with outreach, your time and energy can make a lasting impact. Volunteers play a vital role in bridging cultures, building connections, and expanding our collective reach. Join us in creating a Colorado where everyone—no matter where they come from—has the opportunity to thrive.
Become a Mentor: Share What You’ve Learned, Change a Life
If you’ve walked the path of immigration or entrepreneurship and want to give back, consider becoming a mentor through New Roots. Mentors provide encouragement, insight, and real-world advice to fellow immigrants who are still navigating the early stages of their journey. Whether you’re a small business owner, a professional, or someone with life experience to share, your perspective could be exactly what someone else needs to feel confident and empowered. Through mentorship, we create a ripple effect—where one person’s wisdom becomes another’s breakthrough.
Explore All WDC Programs
Your Journey Doesn’t End Here—It Expands
New Roots is just one of the many ways WDC supports underrepresented communities across Colorado. From youth entrepreneurship to holistic health, creative media to workforce development, our programs are designed to uplift and activate change. We invite you to explore all of our offerings and find the program that aligns with your goals.
Click below to discover more opportunities to grow, lead, and thrive.
