The Concept Behind FIRE

Who We Are

The Foundation for Immigrant Resources and Education (FIRE) is an adult education organization dedicated to improving literacy and providing educational opportunities for native-born Americans, and immigrant and refugee adults. Although our students come from diverse cultural and personal backgrounds, they are united by FIRE’s core mission: through literacy and community come empowered lives.

St. Paul and Immigration

St. Paul has been a destination for new American immigrants since its inception in the mid-19th century. As such, the city's vitality has, and will continue to, depend upon the quality of life experienced by its newest arrivals. The vast majority of immigrants and refugees have come to rely upon social service and educational organizations that emphasize survival-based skills. In these settings, workforce preparation and the literacy of one’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing, dominate. While these skills are essential, they are not all encompassing. At FIRE, we aim to provide a forum for our learners to go beyond surviving, and develop the literacy and communication skills to thrive, bringing their voices, art, culture, and experiences into public discourse.

Programming

All of the programs at FIRE are community-based, participatory, and strength-focused. FIRE’s programs challenge the traditional classroom model of "teacher as expert," by focusing on learners’ strengths and by using learner feedback in the construction of new classes programs. With adult learners struggling with anxiety and fears of inadequacy, FIRE strives to illuminate and utilize the strengths its learners arrive with. It is these personal characteristics that make empowered immigrant lives more possible.