Get Involved

The conference wants to help churches provide meaningful experiences for our immigrant communities. This page contains resources for individuals and congregations looking to provide support to immigrant populations in their community. For Immigration Podcasts & Videos, visit here. For Immigration Articles & Publications, visit here. Read the UMC's position on immigration.

If you are interested in connecting with others in our conference on the issue of immigration, please contact one of the following persons: Sandy Sypherd, Chair of the Great Plains Immigration Rapid Response Team or Andrea Paret, Peace with Justice Coordinator, Great Plains Conference. Download this document prepared by D.S. Stephanie Ahlschwede.

How to Get Involved

Individuals and congregations looking to take action and get involved in their community can consider the following. Please note, you should NOT offer to help with immigration paperwork.

Share the above resources through your communities and networks of care.
Offer rides to people who need to attend meetings and appointments related to their immigration status.
Engage in conversations in your local community with partners already active in this work – schools, non-profits, other churches. Understanding what is happening in your community can increase cooperation, build trust, and decrease duplication of efforts.
Get trained as a “Know Your Rights” trainer and offer trainings in your community.
Church offices can offer to be a place where people store duplicate copies of their documentation. It is recommended that these documents be kept in a fireproof safe or lock box and that clear systems can be put in place regarding how to access them on short notice (identify several people who can be “on call.”)
Churches can offer counseling and support services, or provide scholarship resources to a counseling center in your community.
In Nebraska, share the Rural Response Hotline as a way for people from rural areas to receive emotional support - https://farmhotline.com/
Connect with local and regional advocacy groups to take action and provide support.