Our Mission
The Foundation for Immigrant Resources and Education (FIRE) is an adult education organization dedicated to strengthening the lives of individuals, as well as the communities they live in. Driven by its core vision, through literacy and community come empowered lives, FIRE works to:
- provide educational opportunities to adults seeking assistance;
- facilitate the development of literacy skills that are transferable to the everyday world;
- foster critical thinking and creativity through participatory learning environments; and
- provide opportunities for skill-sharing and awareness of immigrant experiences.
FIRE: What's in a name?
FIRE stands for Foundation for Immigrant Resources and Education. The symbol of our organization depicts an inner flame within a larger flame. Fire has always been associated with the warmth of a hearth and home - a place where people come together and build community through the sharing of stories, food, and dreams. Just as fire brings light to dark places and situations, our organization work to illuminate the challenges of the immigrant experience and the contributions immigrants have made to our society. Through advocacy, programming, and event, FIRE promotes learning, understanding, and partnerships between learners, volunteers, and communities.
FIRE aspires to be a bridge, connecting new Americans with the resources they need to confidently claim their place in America. FIRE is committed to helping those who arrive in the United States through the painful experience of leaving loved ones behind and beginning again. FIRE acknowledges the importance of surrounding immigrants with a supportive community that helps them recreate their lives and build strong relationships. FIRE is a safe place for all people to learn, to strengthen their skills and to build ""inner fires," an element essential to achieving one's hopes and dreams.