Our Programs and Services

Our unique integration model serves as a 'one-stop-shop’ that helps new immigrants access these services directly or through coordinated referrals. The model focuses on four strategic pathways that leverage immigrants' human capital and unlock access to economic mobility, social inclusion, and civic engagement:

1. English Language Instruction: Free, full-time intensive English language classes that provide participants with 150 hours of English language instruction in each six-week cycle. Classes are taught by experienced instructors with Master’s degrees.

2. Workforce Development and Digital Literacy Instruction: Training on job readiness, the American workforce and norms, industry-specific terms, resume and cover letter writing, and soft skills such as etiquette, communication and listening, and interpersonal skills. Riverside also offers training on computer programs and online platforms and their applicability in classroom and workplace settings.

3. Personalized Integration Planning and Access to Social Services through Case Management/Counseling: Working with case management/counseling staff, participants develop a personalized roadmap to achieve social, economic, and civic engagement goals. They also receive direct services and referrals for early resettlement needs such as housing, legal aid, health insurance, and child care.

4. Community and Civic Engagement: Training and resources that promote and build the capacity of program participants to actively engage in civic life as individuals and community members. Training can include a range of topics such as know-your-rights, financial literacy, and becoming a citizen, accessing resources such as the IDNYC and library cards.

Our centralized model also serves to build community and establish a network among distinct immigrant communities in all five boroughs of New York City.