I’M IIBA Stories: BALA
The Immigration Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA) has launched a campaign – called I’M IIBA – uplifting what we know to be the true character and positive contributions of immigrants in the Bay Area. This week we highlight the inspirational story of Bala – a dedicated supporter of IIBA as well as current Vice […]
I’M IIBA Stories: OLGA
The Immigration Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA) has launched a campaign – called I’M IIBA – uplifting what we know to be the true character and positive contributions of immigrants in the Bay Area. This week we highlight the inspirational story of Olga. This week we highlight the inspirational story of OLGA I’M OLGA […]
I’M IIBA Stories: SHELLI
The Immigration Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA) has launched a campaign – called I’M IIBA – uplifting what we know to be the true character and positive contributions of immigrants and advocates for immigrants in the Bay Area. This week we highlight the inspirational story of IIBA volunteer and Pro bono Attorney Shelli. I’M […]
Leap of Faith: Cinthya’s Story
Taking a leap of faith, Cinthya got married and moved to the United States. With IIBA’s support, she became a permanent resident in 2003. Two decades later, Cinthya again turned to IIBA for legal help to obtain citizenship, in hopes of giving back to her adopted community in Redwood City.
Finding Home: Leska’s Story
After surviving a tragic accident, Leska left Ukraine and found home and community in the Bay Area. She worked with IIBA’s Redwood City team to achieve her dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. Now, Leska hopes to coach and inspire others with the invaluable lessons from her own immigration journey.
Roots of Love: Eric & Patricia’s Story
Before they met in 2015, Eric and Patricia each had complicated relationships with the U.S. immigration system. After falling in love and getting married, the couple would again have to navigate the complex system to prove their love to immigration officials.
IIBA Client: Amelia Hernandez
“IIBA staff always kept me updated on the status of my case and made me feel secure,” says Amelia Hernandez. She appreciates that sense of security more than ever after her nightmarish journey to the U.S.
Protecting and Serving his Community
Javier is the first member of his family to graduate from college, with a degree in criminal justice from San Jose State University, and plans of becoming a police officer one day. His aspirations of protecting and serving his community stem from the many struggles he faced growing up.
Client: Yoseline Chavez
I was already motivated to become a U.S. citizen, and my academic dreams only encouraged me more. I began the citizenship process by getting in contact with International Institute of the Bay Area. Having a U.S. passport feels like having a key to the world.
Volunteer: Betty Labastida
I started volunteering with the International Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA) over three years ago. I attended IIBA’s orientation and began helping individuals complete their citizenship applications. The flexible commitment really spoke to me. I have been volunteering about once a month since then.