Upcoming Events

There is a question that has followed me for most of my life: how do I give back? I ask it because I know what it is to have nothing and be given everything. Eight years in a refugee camp teaches you what a blanket means, what a stranger’s kindness weighs. When I finally reached Seattle, I carried two things: the memory of exile, and a debt I could never repay — only pass on. So I went to work in a factory. And on weekends and evenings, I started helping refugee families — tw

SEATTLE : In a vibrant corner of the Pacific Northwest, a transformation is underway that promises to redefine community support for newcomers. The Congolese Integration Network (CIN) recently welcomed leaders from the Washington State Department of Commerce for an exclusive hard-hat tour of its heavily anticipated Welcoming and Healing Center, marking a major milestone in a project designed to uplift immigrants, refugees, and families across the region. The ambitious renovat

TACOMA, Wash. The spirit of inclusion took center stage in the Pacific Northwest as the City of Tacoma officially recognized the vital contributions of immigrants and refugees, honoring the Congolese Integration Network (CIN) with a special Welcoming Week Proclamation. The recognition highlights the enduring strength, cultural richness, and economic resilience that immigrant and refugee families inject into the fabric of Tacoma and the surrounding region. For CIN, accepting

SEATAC, Wash. The spirit of unity and cultural pride filled the air on September 12 as the City of SeaTac and the Congolese Integration Network (CIN) joined forces to host a triumphant Immigrant and Refugee Welcoming Week celebration. Against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest aviation hub, community members, leaders, and families from a mosaic of cultural backgrounds gathered to celebrate the resilience, diversity, and profound contributions that newcomers bring to the r

SEATTLE : Laughter, music, and the unmistakable buzz of a new academic year filled the air as more than 300 community members turned out for the Congolese Integration Network’s (CIN) annual Back-to-School BBQ and Family Fun Day. Designed to ease the financial burden on families while getting students excited for the classroom, the lively community gathering delivered an afternoon of food, games, and essential support. The highlight of the day for many youngsters was receiving

SEATTLE : The summer harvest yielded much more than flowers and fresh produce this year. Through sweat, soil, and teamwork, local youth successfully wrapped up the Congolese Integration Network’s (CIN) Youth Garden and Park Restoration Project, transforming local green spaces while cultivating their own futures. Over the course of the program, young participants rolled up their sleeves to revitalize neighborhood parks and community gardens. But the hands-on labor was just a v

September 9, 2026 It was an enchanting break for members and friends of Congolese Integration Network (CIN) during a memorable outing to the zoo. From discovering wildlife to sharing wonderful moments together, the day was all about unity, joy, and connection. From gazing at the towering giraffes to sharing laughs near the playful monkeys, every moment strengthened the bond within our community. True to its mission of #RecognizeProtectEmpower, CIN continues to foster together

PIERCE COUNTY : The postpartum period is often painted in shades of pastel pink and blue, accompanied by pictures of serene mothers cradling sleeping infants. But for many parents, the reality behind closed doors is far more complex: a quiet exhaustion, overwhelming anxiety, and the isolating weight of trying to do it all. This week, the Early Learning Pierce County team decided to pierce that silence. Bringing together parents, caregivers, and community members in a hybrid f

SEATTLE : Laughter echoed down the hallway before you even reached the room. On a typical evening, a room full of teenagers and young adults might just be a backdrop of noise. But last week at the Congolese Integration Network, that noise transformed into something far more powerful: a lifeline. Dubbed a "Youth Hangout Night," the gathering was designed with a simple premise: bring young people together for fun, connection, and music. Yet beneath the surface of the games and

SEATTLE : In communities navigating an increasingly complex landscape of legal and social challenges, knowledge is more than just power it is a vital shield. That protective shield just got a whole lot stronger. Three staff members have officially become "Know Your Rights" (KYR) Certified through the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN). The milestone marks a major step forward in the organization's ongoing mission to advocate for, educate, and protect immigrant, r

SEATTLE — The cleats are laced, the strategy is set, and the energy on the pitch is electric. But long before the first official whistle blows at the upcoming Refugees & Immigrants Week Tournament, the real victory is already happening in practice. Ahead of the highly anticipated annual event, local youth gathered for a high-energy friendly match designed to shake off the rust, sharpen their skills, and most importantly have fun. Laughter and healthy competition filled the ai

SEATTLE — The television screen at the Roadhouse lit up, and an instant roar filled the room. Whether it was a brilliant save, a missed penalty, or a dramatic stoppage-time goal, the global phenomenon of the World Cup has a way of stopping time and bringing people together. Gathered together to watch the tournament unfold, local youth turned a simple match-viewing into an unforgettable community event, complete with high energy, friendly debates, and plenty of shared laughter

SEATTLE — The soil was rich, the sunshine was warm, and the baskets were heavy. Under a bright blue sky, community members of all ages rolled up their sleeves to celebrate a milestone months in the making: Harvest Day. Surrounded by vibrant green foliage and the earthy scent of fresh soil, families and neighbors gathered to reap the rewards of their hard work. What started months ago as seeds planted with hope blossomed into a bountiful yield of fresh, healthy produce and an

The gathering provided an important opportunity for community members to ask questions, voice concerns, and better understand the decisions affecting neighborhoods, schools, transportation, housing, public safety, and economic opportunities. Both representatives have also expressed support for the Welcoming and Healing Center project, an initiative led by the Congolese Integration Network CIN aimed at creating a safe and welcoming space for immigrant and refugee families. For

SEATTLE — Excitement, pride, and unity filled the room as families, youth, elders, and friends gathered to watch the Democratic Republic of Congo face Portugal in a spirited World Cup match. Throughout the game, supporters cheered every pass and scoring opportunity, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter, dancing, and unmistakable Congolese pride. But beyond the excitement on the field, the event served as a celebration of culture, identity, and community. Hosted by the

SEATTLE — Community members gathered this week to celebrate another successful harvest, highlighting the important role that local gardens play in promoting food security, healthy living, and environmental sustainability. More than a source of fresh produce, the community garden has become a place where families learn valuable skills, strengthen connections, and build a healthier future together. Organizers say each seed planted represents an investment in wellness, resilienc

As summer approaches, local youth gathered last week for a Summer Job Fair designed to connect them with employment opportunities and equip them for a successful season ahead. The event provided young people with a chance to explore career options, build valuable connections, and gain confidence as they prepare to enter the workforce. Organizers said the fair was about more than finding summer jobs, it was also an opportunity to foster friendships and strengthen community tie

SEATTLE — For a group of young people, attending the FIFA World Cup match between Belgium and Egypt was about far more than soccer. It was an opportunity that organizers say could have a lasting impact on how they view themselves and the world around them. For many participants, it was their first time attending a major international sporting event. Surrounded by thousands of fans from different countries, cultures, and languages, the experience offered a powerful lesson in d

The Early Learning Department of Congolese Integration Network continues its work supporting children in their earliest stages of development through personalized, in-home education for learners aged 18 months to 4 years. Educators work directly with families in home settings, focusing on early language development, social skills, and foundational learning. The approach emphasizes individualized attention, aiming to build strong developmental pathways during a critical stage

In a setting defined by warmth and civic engagement, community members gathered for an evening focused on connection, learning, and the future of their district. The highlight of the event was a forward-looking address by Congressman Adam Smith, who outlined key priorities centered on growth, public safety, and expanding opportunities for local residents. More than a formal briefing, the gathering created space for meaningful dialogue. Attendees were invited to engage directl