Columbus, OH

As the 14th largest city in the nation, and the fastest growing in the Midwest, Columbus has an expanding New American community with over 160,000 foreign born individuals that speak more than 100 different languages. We recognize that the success of Columbus is directly linked to our growing immigrant and refugee community and the contributions they are making to boost business creation and diversify civic life. This is why Mayor Andrew J. Ginther designated Columbus to be a Welcoming City with policies that focus on fluid integration, building trust, developing strong relationships and partnerships with New Americans.

The City of Columbus’ New American Initiative works to provide equal opportunity to all refugees and immigrants so they can become active, productive, and equitable residents of the community. A centerpiece of the New American Initiative is the New American Leadership Academy. The Academy helps to make sure everyone has a voice and the opportunity to contribute to the success of their neighborhood and Columbus as a whole.