Protais Muhirwa: Healing Communities Through Empowerment and Care

ARMIA’s core mission and vision focus on promoting socio-economic participation and combating social isolation among refugees, migrants, and socially isolated individuals in Australia. The organization aims to heal and empower “New Australians” and the “Forgotten Ones” to become healthy, proud, and productive citizens. To achieve this, ARMIA offers programs that break down barriers related to social integration, education, employment, and well-being. Their efforts help individuals transition from welfare dependency to active participation in the workforce and entrepreneurship.

In helping people with disabilities, ARMIA plays a significant role by providing comprehensive support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). As a registered NDIS provider, ARMIA offers tailored services to empower individuals with disabilities and their families, promoting independence and community involvement. The organization also provides psychosocial disability coaching for individuals with mental health challenges and assistive products to enhance daily living and safety. ARMIA also addresses mental health and well-being by offering individual and group counselling to support clients dealing with mental health issues. They provide health education to promote overall well-being and facilitate referrals to general practitioners for those needing medical support related to mental health. ARMIA also proudly supports senior citizens to live a normal life in their homes though Aged/In-Home Care.

The organization’s motto, “Healing the Incurables,” reflects its commitment to addressing deep-rooted issues faced by marginalized communities, particularly refugees migrants and indigenous persons who feel hopeless or unsupported. In practice, this motto signifies ARMIA’s holistic approach to community support, addressing not just physical health but also social, emotional, and psychological challenges. By providing comprehensive services, including counselling, education, and employment initiatives, ARMIA seeks to empower individuals to overcome barriers and integrate into society successfully. The motto embodies ARMIA’s dedication to restoring dignity, promoting well-being, and fostering a sense of belonging among those it serves.

ARMIA’s drop-in center functions as a hub for multicultural support, providing a welcoming environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can access various services and resources. Clients can seek help without appointments, making the services easily accessible. The staff and volunteers, often from the same culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds as the clients, foster trust and understanding, enhancing the effectiveness of the services provided. The drop-in center also connects clients to other community resources, helping them access relevant services, local organizations, and government agencies.

To combat social isolation among refugees and migrants, ARMIA employs several strategies. They facilitate community engagement programs that foster interaction and build a sense of belonging. ARMIA offers life skills training, including sewing, cooking, and gardening, providing opportunities for social interaction while developing practical skills. Educational programs, such as English language classes and vocational training, help clients improve their skills and create environments for social engagement. ARMIA also collaborates with local organizations and community groups to expand its reach and resources, forming a broader support network for refugees and migrants.

ARMIA supports academic learning for school and university students through targeted programs and services. These include homework clubs, academic assistance, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to help non-native speakers improve their language skills, crucial for academic success. ARMIA facilitates access to professional courses and training, equipping students with additional skills to enhance employability and academic performance. The organization connects students with mentors and tutors for personalized support, helping them overcome academic challenges. Life skills training further helps students manage their time, improve study habits, and develop essential skills for both academic and personal success. Partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations provide students with additional resources and opportunities for academic growth.

Collaboration with other organizations and government agencies is vital for ARMIA in enhancing support for refugees and migrants. The organization partners with educational institutions, community organizations, and service providers to share resources and expertise, expanding the range of services offered to clients. ARMIA works with local government departments and health services to ensure clients receive a comprehensive and coordinated approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges they face. They also collaborate with various institutions to secure funding and grants for specific projects, enabling the implementation of programs that support their mission. The organization offers job training and entrepreneurship support to help migrants find stable employment, as many struggle due to cultural differences or lack of local experience.

Looking to the future, ARMIA has several goals for expanding its services. The organization aims to reach a broader geographic area, especially in regions with significant refugee and migrant populations. Increasing funding and financial sustainability through diverse funding sources, including grants and social enterprises, is a priority. In addition to strengthening advocacy efforts, ARMIA plans to leverage technology to improve service delivery to refugees and migrants. The organization also plans to invest in training and development for staff and volunteers to ensure they are equipped to provide high-quality support.

In managing and training volunteers, ARMIA follows a structured approach that includes thorough recruitment, orientation, and ongoing support. Volunteers are introduced to the organization’s mission and programs, followed by training sessions tailored to their roles. Supervisors oversee volunteer activities, providing guidance and feedback to ensure a supportive environment. ARMIA also recognizes and appreciates volunteers’ contributions through events and awards, maintaining high morale and encouraging continued involvement.

ARMIA’s funding comes from diverse sources, including grants from government agencies, philanthropic foundations, donations from individuals and businesses, partnerships with educational institutions, and community support. Sponsorships from businesses further contribute to the financial sustainability of ARMIA’s programs. By diversifying its funding sources, ARMIA ensures it can continue to provide effective support for refugees and migrants, helping them integrate into Australian society.