Welcome.US Company Profile

Background

Welcome.US is a nonprofit organization established in September 2021 to inspire, mobilize, and empower Americans to welcome and support individuals seeking refuge in the United States. Initially formed to assist Afghan allies following the fall of Kabul, the organization has since expanded its mission to support refugees from various global crises, including those displaced by the war in Ukraine. Welcome.US operates on the belief that by engaging Americans from all walks of life, it can build a bridge to safety for refugees and help them thrive in their new communities.

Key Strategic Focus

Welcome.US focuses on:

Mobilizing American Communities: Encouraging individuals and organizations across the U.S. to participate in welcoming refugees.

Facilitating Sponsorship: Developing platforms and resources to connect potential sponsors with refugees in need.

Coordinating Support Efforts: Collaborating with government agencies, private sector partners, and non-governmental organizations to streamline refugee resettlement processes.

Raising Awareness and Funds: Conducting campaigns to inform the public and generate financial support for resettlement initiatives.

Financials and Funding

As a fiscally sponsored project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, Welcome.US does not file independent tax returns. However, as of September 2022, the organization reported:

$20 million raised through the Welcome Fund.

$179 million in contributions from corporate sponsors, including goods, services, and funds.

$18.8 million in in-kind donations from various organizations participating in its exchange program.

Notable corporate contributors include Google, Meta, Apple, and Walmart.

Pipeline Development

Welcome.US has developed several key initiatives:

Welcome Corps: A program that facilitates private groups of five people to sponsor a refugee, involving financial support and social integration assistance.

Welcome Fund: A fundraising effort that has collected $23 million and distributed 240 grants to local organizations aiding refugees.

Welcome Legal Alliance: A pro bono network providing legal assistance to individuals seeking refugee status in the U.S.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Welcome.US has developed innovative platforms to support its mission:

Welcome Connect: A first-of-its-kind platform designed to help people fleeing violence, oppression, and strife connect with Americans willing to sponsor them.

Leadership Team

Nazanin Ash, CEO: Born in the U.S. to Iranian parents, Ash has a background in public service and refugee advocacy. She has been vocal about the challenges in the American refugee system and leads Welcome.US in its mission to mobilize American support for refugees.

Leadership Changes

There have been no recent significant changes or appointments within the company's leadership.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The refugee resettlement sector involves various organizations dedicated to supporting displaced individuals. The market is characterized by collaborations between governmental bodies, non-profits, and private sector entities to provide comprehensive support to refugees.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors and similar organizations include:

International Rescue Committee (IRC): Provides emergency aid and long-term assistance to refugees and those displaced by war, persecution, or natural disaster.

Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS): Offers resettlement services and advocacy for refugees and migrants.

HIAS: Focuses on refugee protection and resettlement, with a history rooted in assisting Jewish refugees.

These organizations share a common goal of supporting refugees but may differ in their approaches, partnerships, and areas of focus.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Welcome.US has established significant collaborations to enhance its impact:

CEO Council: Comprising leaders from 36 companies, including Google, Adobe, Airbnb, Amazon, and Apple, this council mobilizes resources and innovations to support resettlement efforts.

Miles4Migrants: Partnered to provide over 20,000 free flights, utilizing more than 850 million donated airline miles to bring Afghan allies to safety.

Airbnb.org: Collaborated to offer temporary housing solutions for newcomers facing acute housing shortages upon arrival.

Operational Insights

Welcome.US differentiates itself through:

Community Engagement: Actively involving American citizens in the resettlement process, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and community.

Innovative Platforms: Developing tools like Welcome Connect to streamline the sponsorship process and connect sponsors with refugees efficiently.

Comprehensive Support: Coordinating with various sectors to provide holistic support, including housing, employment, legal assistance, and social integration.