Inside the International Institute of Buffalo: Refugee Support and Language Services

In this episode, Robert Thoren, Recruiting and Training Coordinator, at the International Institute of Buffalo (iiBuffalo.org), discusses their work in supporting refugees and asylum seekers, as well as their language services.

The institute's New American Integration department helps with housing and cultural integration for newcomers. They also have an employment department offering job training and a Career Pathways Program for highly-skilled immigrants.

Thoren shares his experience in language learning and interpreting, and explains the different types of interpreting services offered by the institute.

Additionally, Thoren talks about the organization's history, interpreter training, and their significant events, including the upcoming fundraiser comedy show Refugees of Comedy.

For interpreters in the Buffalo area, he highlights the languages they are currently recruiting for and provides guidance on how to apply.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:34 New American Integration Department
01:21 Employment and Career Pathways
03:06 Interpreter Certification Success Story
06:37 Language Learning and Technology
09:00 Interpreting Experiences and Challenges
11:28 Community Interpreting Insights
13:35 International Institute of Buffalo Overview
16:37 Interpreter Training and Recruitment
21:53 Upcoming Events and Trainings
30:52 Conclusion and Farewell

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