Holistic Resettlement Services
Following forced displacement and relocation, an artist under threat must establish more than their legal status.
An artist’s creative process can often be restored only after other vital factors governing daily life have stabilized. Our Resettlement Assistance program provides holistic support to US-based artists in our network as they navigate meeting emergent personal, logistical, professional, and legal needs post-relocation. AFI’s resettlement team leverages organizational partnerships and referrals to connect artists with professional development opportunities, mental and physical well-being resources, emergency funding and grant programs, immigrant services, and more.
AFI’s resettlement team helps US-based artists within AFI’s network obtain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and Social Security Numbers. We also support artists’ logistical needs by working with them to build a personalized resettlement plan, which includes customized resources for their needs, including professional development, logistical support, and social services.
For artists anywhere in the US, AFI’s resettlement services include:
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- Professional Services:
- Connections to professional contacts, residencies, fellowships, and other opportunities as they become available.
- Announcements on professional opportunities and open calls as they become available.
- One-on-one tailored support and resources for finding studio space, workspace, and presentation space in the artist’s area.
- Assistance in writing a resume, cover letter, artist statement, and applications for professional and educational opportunities.
- Recommendation letters for professional and artistic opportunities.
- Logistical and Social Services:
- Pro bono Employment Authorization (EAD) application filing.
- General guidance and resource sharing on finding housing, filing US taxes, obtaining a US bank account, obtaining a US Social Security Number (SSN), US health insurance coverage, and submitting mail forwarding with the US Postal Service (USPS).
- Resources for finding and applying for emergency grants and financial assistance.
- Resources for finding mental health services and support in the artist’s area.
- Resources for finding English language courses in the artist’s area and applying for reduced-cost scholarships, if available.
- Resources for finding local food pantries, immigrant services organizations, children’s activities and organizations, public libraries, community centers, LGBTQIA+ centers, and other community resources in the artist’s area, as needed.
For artists in the New York City metropolitan area, AFI’s resettlement team can also offer:
- Guidance and support in navigating public transportation in NYC.
- Guidance on how to obtain an IDNYC.
- Occasional in-person meetings and events.
- Connections to arts and cultural events.
AFI’s resettlement program does not include:
- Direct financial assistance or fundraising.
- Direct mental health counseling and social work.
- Tax advice and filing help.
- Housing.
- Legal advice not pertaining to casework offered by AFI’s legal team.
Photo credits: Nosrat Tarighi, Joshua Carrigan, Gareth Smit.