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Legal cases are rarely solved in a single afternoon. They are a marathon of filings, hearings, and patient advocacy. That is why one-time gifts get us started, but monthly gifts get us across the finish line. Think about your impact this way: Giving 12 times a year supports the ongoing asylum cases for 12 families. It doesn’t take a massive

At SWIRC, our work is made possible by a community of supporters whose own stories are deeply connected to the immigrant experience. From family histories shaped by migration to personal encounters with resilience and belonging, these stories are a powerful reminder of why this work matters Immigration has always been central to the United States. Generations of newcomers have helped

It takes minutes to cross a border, but years to navigate the legal system. Here is what that journey actually looks like for our neighbors in Southwest Detroit. (abajo en español) The Common Misconception When we see news about immigration, we often see images of borders, airports, or buses. It gives the impression that the “journey” ends the moment a

Every gift you make opens a door to justice. As the year draws to a close, we invite you to reflect on the power of community and the importance of justice for all of our neighbors. At the Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center (SWIRC), we see every day how essential legal aid can be a lifeline for those in

“Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me.” At SWIRC, we see miracles happen every day in our clinic, but we can’t do this work alone. Today, we are celebrating a massive act of kindness from our friends Kris and Dave (and their dog, Remington!) and the team at Lingua Franca. Through their exclusive clothing collaboration,

Today, on Giving Tuesday, we’re inviting everyone who believes in SWIRC’s mission to take one simple, powerful step: invest in the next 10 years of justice. This year is especially meaningful. We’re celebrating a milestone that you helped create — a full decade of showing up for neighbors seeking safety, stability, and dignity. And we’re honoring the 25,000 people who

One of Michigan’s Most Dedicated Pro Bono Immigration Attorneys Since March 2024, SWIRC attorney Debbie Bellovich has quietly become one of the most committed pro bono volunteers in Michigan’s legal community—contributing an extraordinary 25 hours per week of completely free legal services to immigrants at SWIRC. With over 1,300 hours of pro bono work in just her first year, Debbie

The five toughest hurdles for immigrants in Detroit, and the support that makes a difference In Detroit and across the country, immigrants are facing a harsher reality than ever before. At SWIRC, our mission is to support and empower the people who make our city vibrant. Our clients are those striving to build new lives amid daunting challenges. Here are

An asylum victory reminds us why hope, courage, and community matter. In 2018, Nicaragua descended into turmoil as peaceful protests for democracy were met with government violence. Among those who courageously stood up for change was the Arce family, small business owners from Managua who supported university students during the demonstrations by providing food, first aid, and hope amid repression.

The Indian Village community came together in a big way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and support immigrant families in Detroit. Local leaders organized Ritmos y Raíces (“Rhythms and Roots”), a lively neighborhood fiesta filled with music, food, and celebration — all benefiting the Southwest Detroit Immigrant Resource Center (SWIRC). Thanks to the generosity of the organizers, sponsors, and guests, the event