Karen Organization of Minnesota

Description

The Karen Organization of Minnesota was founded in 2008 by refugees from Burma. As the first Karen-led social service agency in the U.S., KOM is often consulted by Minnesota and statewide agencies to learn about how to best serve refugees from Burma. KOM offers employment services, social services, community health, and youth development programs to over 3,000 refugees and immigrants from Burma and other countries each year. The majority of our staff are refugees from Burma, which means they understand the needs and goals of the community we serve. In 2022, we welcomed three Afghan staff members in Social Services, Employment and Youth Development to help serve newly arrived Afghan refugees. KOM currently has 34 staff members.

More than 20,000 Karen people live in Minnesota, making it the largest Karen community in the country. Minnesota is also home to more than 2,000 refugees from other ethnic groups in Burma, including Karenni and Mon. Refugees from Burma come to Minnesota for the same reasons many people do: to find good jobs, access high-quality education, and connect with a strong community.

KOM is a leading service provider helping over 3,000 refugees and immigrants each year achieve their goals. Our success is due to:

• Programs designed by and for the community
• Providing wraparound support
• Strong partnerships