Canopy NWA’s Long Welcome: How Refugees Thrive in Northwest Arkansas
I Am Northwest Arkansas®
The Challenges and Hopes of Refugee Resettlement
This chapter explores the intricate journey of refugee families from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Syria as they navigate the resettlement process in the United States. It sheds light on the emotional and policy-related hurdles they face, while underscoring their enduring hope for a better future.
About the Show:
"We work towards integration, not assimilation. Both the newcomer and the existing community come together, braiding the strengths of one another—it makes a stronger community overall."
– Joanna Krause
On this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with leaders and team members from Canopy NWA—a powerful local nonprofit that has welcomed over 900+ refugees from 29 countries since 2016. Together, they discuss the heart of refugee resettlement in Northwest Arkansas and how Canopy’s community-driven “long welcome” model is changing lives.
Joanna Krause (Executive Director), Saratiel Mugisha (Case Manager and himself a former Canopy client), and Shabnam Faizy (Youth Services) offer personal insights into the challenges refugees face and the support that Canopy NWA provides, from meeting basic needs and finding community to entrepreneurship, youth services, and navigating the path to citizenship.
With federal refugee resettlement programs on pause, Canopy NWA’s role is more vital than ever. Learn how their “path to thriving” model has helped launch 21 new refugee- and immigrant-owned businesses in the past year and why integration—not just assimilation—creates a thriving region for everyone.
This inspiring episode is full of personal stories, practical support tips, and ways YOU can get involved to help make Northwest Arkansas a place of hope and belonging for newcomers.
Key Takeaways:
- Canopy NWA’s “long welcome” approach guides refugees well beyond the first 90 days, ensuring needs like housing, health, education, and mental health are met.
- Integration means working with both refugees and local residents to build new communities together.
- Entrepreneurship is a key focus—helping newcomers start businesses and use their skills in ways that benefit the whole region.
- Youth programs support refugee students emotionally, academically, and socially, preparing them for long-term success.
- Legal services at Canopy NWA help refugees and immigrants navigate the path to permanent residency and citizenship.
- Community engagement—whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy—is essential to Canopy’s success, especially during times of political and federal funding uncertainty.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Website: CanopyNWA.org
- Canopy NWA on Facebook
- Canopy NWA on Instagram
- Canopy NWA on LinkedIn
- Inspired Hands (refugee women’s cottage industry, order bread/baklava/chutney and more)
- World Refugee Day – annual event held in June by Canopy NWA
- Canopy NWA Volunteer Opportunities and Donation Information
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by*
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Winetopia 2025
We’re back at the barn! Winetopia is THE annual event that highlights the best of what our NWA Community has to offer, and we are thrilled to be back at the Barn at the Stonebreaker this year! Winetopia is where you can taste incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries, AND hand-crafted mocktails. A specially-selected menu from Stonebreaker catering and our favorite Mia Tarts round out the evening! A ticket is all you need to access one of the most special nights of the year. Your favorite features from Winetopia will be there - the famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner, DJ Shortfuze spinning smooth tracks all night long, and the best silent auction around! You’ve been waiting all year for this event, and it’s now around the corner! We cannot wait to see you there!
Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Evening at the Farm is a celebration of community and togetherness. Gather with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts for a memorable farm-to-table meal. What began as a small gathering has grown into one of our most beloved traditions, celebrating the flavors of the season and the community that makes it all possible. By attending this event, you'll not only treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also support our mission to empower and nourish our community.
FindItNWA.com
Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"
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