Mission

The Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization (CAIRO), founded in 2016, originated from community discussions in 2014 that addressed opportunity gaps and challenges faced by African children and youth in Portland Public schools. In 2019, CAIRO expanded its services to central Minnesota at the community's request. CAIRO's mission is to advocate for equity and social justice for African refugees and immigrant children, youth, and families. Through programs, services, community organizing, and collaborative leadership, the organization aims to create equitable opportunities that enable the community to thrive. CAIRO envisions a society in which children, youth, and families reside in supportive communities that bolster their cultural wealth and lived experiences.