The Intercultural Wellness Program (IWP) is offered by The Welcoming Center to promote community wellness and well-being among immigrant communities of Greater Philadelphia. The program is offered to immigrants from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds to overcome acculturative stressors resulting from the process of social and economic integration, learning to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the program devoted full attention to creating safe spaces where participants talked about their situation, listened to each other, shared information and resources, and continued practicing English language skills rather than staying at home speaking only in their native language.

During the past three years, we heard many stories of loss and pain but also stories about dreams and hope. In the post-pandemic phase, immigrants continue learning how to overcome the barriers such as developing language proficiency, addressing social isolation, understanding American culture, meeting new friends, and connecting to economic opportunities that match their skills and values. New challenges have emerged, however, from a changing economy, new working conditions, and higher demands for use of information technology.

In the new situation, the Intercultural Wellness Program is fully devoted to supporting participants to cultivate personal and collective agency, promote community wellness and well-being, and develop new skills and a better understanding of the world of work in the United States.