Better Responses to Differing Immigration Statuses: Spreading and Adapting 2Gen Working Practices

What does it take to deliver services to families, youth, and children whose variety of immigrant statuses may dictate different access to benefits, and to make sure all family members are supported? This brief explores two-generation (2Gen) practices—interventions that work with both parents and children—that aim to effectively serve immigrants with a range of statuses. Drawing on survey results, interviews, webinars, and peer advising and learning convenings, two strategies stand out: take time to educate staff, clients, and community members about how different immigration statuses can affect eligibility for supports and the design of services, and build partnerships that can provide a continuum of services for mixed-status families.

This brief is part of a set of four by the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group, Migration Policy Institute, and Higher Heights Consulting that explore 2Gen working practices that serve immigrant and refugee families. The others look at approaches to building trust between service providers and families, overcoming language barriers, and developing cultural competencies.