Refugee Outreach Collective

04/24/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for ROCAC 2026 on April 11 at Central Michigan University!

Our first annual conference brought together an inspiring community of scholars, practitioners, students, and advocates committed to advancing conversations around forced displacement, refugee resettlement, and immigrant integration in Michigan. From a powerful keynote to engaging sessions, research presentations, and a dynamic closing panel, the day reflected the strength and dedication of this growing field.

We’re especially grateful to the organizations who shared their work and connected with attendees, as well as to our sponsors and partners whose support made this event possible. And of course, thank you to every participant who contributed ideas, asked questions, and helped create such a collaborative and welcoming space. Your voices and perspectives made ROCAC 2026 truly meaningful.

We’re already exploring plans for next year and hope to continue building this community together. Stay connected—we can’t wait to see what’s ahead.

04/22/2026

International funding cuts in the last two years have caused a sharp decline in medical services, food assistance, and staff shortages throughout the Dzaleka camp. UNHCR reported receiving only 12 percent of the $26.3 million necessary to support refugees and asylum seekers in Dzaleka, Malawi. This has led to a decrease in resources for those facing forced displacement there, including food assistance.
Please consider supporting ROC’s effort to close the gap in food support, ensuring the most vulnerable receive hunger relief.

04/20/2026

With fellow presenters and organisors after the conference last week at Michigan University. It was a truly an inspiring experience.

INUA Advocacy Refugee Outreach Collective

04/10/2026

The final program is ready for the ROC Annual Conference 2026! Join us tomorrow to hear from these incredible speakers.

Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/refugee-outreach-collectives-annual-conference-rocac-2026-tickets-1983086311541?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*ipqk07*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTc4NjkzNTY2OS4xNzc1MTQ2MTE0*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NzUxNDYxMTMkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzUxNDYxMTMkajYwJGwwJGgw

04/09/2026

Join us this Saturday!

Join us for the inaugural ROC Annual Conference 2026! 🌍💙
The Refugee Outreach Collective (ROC) is bringing together scholars, activists, and service providers to strengthen support for displaced communities. Whether you are looking to learn, share your research, or connect with advocates, ROCAC 2026 is the place to be.
🗓 When: Saturday, April 11 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Where: Grawn Hall, Central Michigan University
Take Action:
📝 Submit a Proposal: https://docs.google.com/.../1Wemx17deBcOo4bJPVNIr.../edit...
🎟 Get Your Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../refugee-outreach...
✅ RSVP on Engage: https://engage.apps.cmich.edu/event/12360662
📖 See the Program: https://docs.google.com/.../1tasOYjE6PEiomGbF2t52Zl4Q8rE.../

Let’s bridge the gap and create a more inclusive world together.

See you at CMU!

04/09/2026

In early June, ROC will be in Dzaleka to continue on the ground efforts to increase access to higher education. Additionally, ROC will be facilitating a food distribution to support hunger relief in the camp. Cuts to UNHCR and USAID funding have impacted the camp, and ROC is committed to filling those gaps. Please consider donating to the link in bio: GoFundMe or the organization’s Venmo account.

04/03/2026

Join us at ROCAC 2026 for a full day of conversation, connection, and community 💬🌍

From refugee resettlement and education to policy, innovation, and justice, this conference brings together voices from across Michigan to share knowledge and spark change.

Hear from experts and community leaders on:
• How refugees build belonging—and the barriers they face
• What’s changing in immigration policy in Michigan
• A “Know Your Rights” session tailored for international students navigating U.S. immigration systems
• How schools and communities can better support resettled youth

🎤 Featuring keynote speaker Innocent Magambi, traveling to share his powerful journey—from life in refugee camps across Africa to becoming a global advocate. His story explores how compassion can transform lives, even in a world where helping others can feel uncertain or risky.

✨ Register today!
Students and ROC members who register today will receive FREE breakfast + lunch
Community attendees: your ticket includes breakfast + lunch

Come learn, connect, and be part of the movement.

🔗 Register now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/refugee-outreach-collectives-annual-conference-rocac-2026-tickets-1983086311541?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*ipqk07*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTc4NjkzNTY2OS4xNzc1MTQ2MTE0*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NzUxNDYxMTMkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzUxNDYxMTMkajYwJGwwJGgw

02/27/2026

Join us at ROCAC 2026 on April 11 at Central Michigan University for a powerful day of learning and connection around forced displacement. This year’s conference will feature notable academics presenting research on refugee resettlement in Michigan, alongside advocates and organizations working directly with newcomer communities across the state. If you’re interested in migration, policy, community engagement, or human rights, this is a space to engage with leaders and changemakers shaping the conversation in Michigan.

Registration is open — secure your spot and be part of the dialogue. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/refugee-outreach-collectives-annual-conference-rocac-2026-tickets-1983086311541?aff=oddtdtcreator

02/21/2026

🎉 Registration for ROCAC 2026 is now live!

Join the Refugee Outreach Collective on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Central Michigan University for the inaugural ROC Annual Conference (ROCAC 2026). Under the theme “Connecting Research and Action Across Michigan: Exploring Migration & Policy,” this statewide gathering brings together scholars, students, practitioners, and community members to engage critical issues in forced displacement and refugee studies.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect research, advocacy, and action across Michigan.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/refugee-outreach-collectives-annual-conference-rocac-2026-tickets-1983086311541?aff=oddtdtcreator

02/13/2026

MARQUETTE, Mich. (WBUP/WJMN) — Northern Michigan University’s chapter of the Refugee Outreach Collective (ROC) is hosting a gala to raise money for refugee education, and 906 Jazz is pitching in

02/13/2026

Join us on February 19 at Northern Michigan University for jazz and an art auction. 100% of the proceeds raised will go towards the artists who painted the pieces, and expanding education access in Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi.

A conversation with NMU ROC President Carter Hairston

12/21/2025

The MSU Med chapter organized another mini medical school presentation at Crestwood Middle School. During the event, students received instruction on fun science activities and discussed the pathway to becoming a doctor. We are looking forward to organizing more of these presentations next semester!