Sustainable Livelihoods Relief Organization
Sustainable Livelihoods Relief Organization (SLRO) serves as a vital support system for Maine's refugee and immigrant community, dedicated to empowering community members to forge stable, sustainable lives. We offer a wide range of supports, from community integration to resource access, championing cultural preservation, self-sufficiency, and the dual pillars of social and economic stability. With a vision for a Maine where immigrants flourish, SLRO fosters a holistic sense of belonging, nurturing not just individual futures but also a culturally rich and unified community.
OUR MISSION
Sustainable Livelihoods Relief Organization (SLRO) is dedicated to empowering New Mainers to build sustainable futures by providing holistic support, fostering community connections, providing resources, opportunity and preserving cultural heritage. We strive to raise the standard of living, promote self-sufficiency, and create a more equitable and resilient environment for the well-being of the New Mainers community.
OUR VISION
We envision a future where every member of Maine’s immigrant and refugee community is equipped with the resources necessary for a sustainable life. We are dedicated to fostering a thriving community rooted in solidarity and mutual support, where each person is an active contributor to the common good. Our commitment is to nurture a harmonious society that prizes well-being, promotes equity, and works collectively towards prosperity for all.
OUR IMPACT
Initiated the "From Apartment to Lot to Greenhouse to Field to Farm" project, successfully transitioning through various stages of urban farming and agricultural development.
Established the Isuken Co-op, a food system-focused cooperative run from a food truck, which is collectively owned by seven immigrant mothers. Out of these worker-owners, five are non-English speakers and two are fluent in English, embodying a diverse workforce.
Developed and delivered a comprehensive youth training program, conducting eight different workshops for 35 individuals aged 13-25. A committed group of 20 youths from these workshops will be advancing their education in food systems through classes offered by the University of Southern Maine Lewiston-Auburn College in the summer of 2019.
Conducted childcare training for 75 mothers, providing ten workshops in collaboration with the Cooperative Development Institute (CDI) and the Somali Bantu Community of Maine. This initiative helped to empower mothers with essential childcare skills and knowledge.
Created the "Mainers Integration Potluck," a program designed to foster relationships and bridge integration barriers between New Mainers and native Mainers. By arranging visits and cooking sessions in native Mainer homes, the initiative has been successful in building strong ties, facilitating community integration, and addressing misunderstandings and misconceptions.
OUR PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES
Food Nutrition & Education PROGRAM
This program focuses on education about food nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and culinary skills. It targets a broad audience within the community and aims to enhance food security, promote self-sufficiency, and foster community connections through food-related activities.
Youth Sustainable Development PROGRAM
Geared towards young individuals, this initiative focuses on holistic skill development, mentorship, community engagement, and resource access. It aims to empower the youth to achieve their goals and contribute to society.
Adult Integration and Empowerment PROGRAM(AIEP)
AIEP is specifically designed for adult New Mainers, addressing their unique challenges related to integration, workforce entry, and entrepreneurship. It places a strong emphasis on cultural preservation and fostering connections to the land, while also providing career skills training and support.
Unity in Action Initiative
This collaborative endeavor leverages sports as a tool for personal development, targeting young athletes. It integrates essential life skills and educational opportunities within sports programs, promoting physical and mental well-being, resilience, and community responsibility.
Contact Us
We at SLRO are eager to hear from you. Your input, inquiries, and feedback are crucial to the growth and effectiveness of our organization. We are committed to assisting you and value your support as we work together towards a sustainable future for New Mainers.
Please reach out to us:
For information about our programs and services
To learn how to get involved or volunteer
To offer feedback or suggestions
To inquire about partnership opportunities
For assistance with resources and support
We endeavor to respond to all correspondence swiftly and thank you in advance for your patience as we manage inquiries from our community. Your engagement with SLRO is a vital part of our collective journey toward creating inclusive, empowered, and thriving communities.