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Isabel’s Path to a Brighter Tomorrow
In the vibrant yet turbulent streets of Havana, Cuba, under the shadow of Fidel Castro’s regime, Mrs. Isabel grew up in a world where opportunities were scarce and dreams often gave way to harsh realities. Born into a family grappling with poverty, her childhood was defined by resilience and determination. Despite the challenges, her parents instilled in her a deep sense of purpose and an unwavering belief in education as the key to a better life. Determined to rise above her circumstances, Mrs. Isabel pursued her studies at the prestigious University of Havana, where she earned a degree in economics. […]
Read moreVolunteer Spotlight: Honoring Our Young Changemakers
Meet Our Young Changemakers Annalise Ho Annalise is a high-achieving senior at Dauphin County Technical School with a 4.0 GPA, actively preparing for a future in dental healthcare. In addition to earning certifications in OSHA, HIPAA, and Radiation Health and Safety, she has gained clinical experience through internships and works as a sterilization technician. Annalise stands out as a decorated SkillsUSA competitor with gold medals at the regional and state levels. She is deeply involved in school leadership as co-president of the National Honor Society and president of HOSA, and she also participates in FBLA, Archery Club, and NTHS. Annalise […]
Read moreInstructor Report by Bibi Parkray – VELT Program
As part of the Vocational English Language Training (VELT) program under ISC’s Practical Approaches to Self-Sufficiency (PASS), I had the privilege of working with five Afghan refugee women residing in Carlisle. Each student came with her own goals and challenges, and together we focused on building the language and vocational skills necessary to navigate their new lives and employment opportunities in the United States. Nazifa: From English Learner to Food Service Worker Nazifa entered the program with minimal education in her native language and no English proficiency. Motivated by her desire to find a job, we worked together for three […]
Read moreA New Chapter: Mrs. Tetiana’s Path to Self-Sufficiency
When Mrs. Tetiana arrived in the United States in September 2023 as an asylee from her war-torn country, she carried a heart full of hope and a lifetime of experience. In Ukraine, she had devoted 31 years to nursing and spent 20 years as a self-employed apartment renovator. But in her new home, her professional background seemed to vanish—her skills lost in translation, her qualifications unrecognized. Six months later, the harsh reality of finding work as a Ukrainian asylee began to take its toll. Everything began to shift in March 2024, when she learned about us and our government-supported Practical […]
Read moreA Story of Hope and Perseverance: Laurie’s Journey to a New Life
My name is Laurie, and I am 24 years old. On September 7, 2023, I arrived in the United States with my family, leaving behind the only life we had ever known in Haiti. The decision to leave was not easy, but it was necessary. Haiti had become increasingly dangerous, with escalating violence and instability threatening our safety. Despite the difficult conditions we faced while preparing for the journey, we were driven by the hope for a better, safer future. When we finally arrived in the U.S., we carried little more than our dreams and the determination to start anew. […]
Read moreRebuilding Dreams: Iryna’s Success Through ISC’s Employment Program
Starting over in a new country is never easy—especially when faced with language barriers and unfamiliar systems. For Mrs. Iryna, a Ukrainian refugee who arrived in the United States on April 17, 2024, the path to employment seemed daunting. With limited English skills and no means of transportation, she struggled to imagine a way forward. But thanks to the dedicated support of our Ukrainian Job Developer, her story transformed into one of hope, independence, and success. When Iryna first connected with us, she felt overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin. Our team immediately stepped in to provide personalized support. […]
Read moreRebuilding Dreams: The Empowering Journey of Basira
Ms. Basira’s journey to success began with unimaginable challenges and heartbreak. On November 6, 2021, following the fall of Kabul, she arrived in the United States—leaving behind her family, her home, and the life she had built in Afghanistan. At just 28 years old, she faced an uncertain future, yet her resolve to rebuild her life in a foreign land was unwavering. Back in Afghanistan, Basira held a prestigious position at the Ministry of Defense, working in the Planning and Policy Department and serving on the Afghan Army Chief of Staff’s team. Her career reflected her exceptional capabilities and her […]
Read moreISC Attends TEC Centro Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On Wednesday, April 16th, our team had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly established TEC Centro facility in Harrisburg. The event marked a significant milestone for TEC Centro Capital Region and its commitment to providing vital educational and training opportunities to adult learners in our community. TEC Centro’s Executive Director, Robert Torres, highlighted the center’s mission, stating, “We offer adult basic education, which includes English as a second language, computer literacy, and allied health programs, which include medical assistance, phlebotomy, and certified nurse aid courses.” He also shared exciting plans for expansion, including a second-floor training […]
Read moreYulia’s Story: How ISC Supports Families in Starting Anew
When Mrs. Yulia, her husband, and their three-year-old daughter arrived in the United States, they carried little more than hope and the courage to start anew. Their journey as Ukrainian asylees seeking safety and stability was fraught with uncertainty, but their lives took a significant turn for the better through the dedicated efforts of our Ukrainian team, volunteers, and the wider community. It began with a warm welcome. Our Case Manager personally met Mrs. Yulia, her husband, and their young child at the airport, ensuring their first moments in the new country were met with care and reassurance. Recognizing their […]
Read moreNangeyali’s Inspiring Journey: From Afghanistan to Carlisle
Mr. Nangeyali’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of community. In August 2021, he was forced to flee Afghanistan, leaving behind his wife, two young children, and elderly parents. As a former high-ranking officer in the Afghan Special Forces, he had spent years serving his country, but the tragic collapse of the Afghan government left him with no choice but to start over in the United States.With courage and determination, he faced an uncertain future. With the support of the International Service Center (ISC), his journey is a powerful example of how compassion and effective resettlement programs […]
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