International Institute Community Development Corporation

01/29/2025

📢 Attention, community! The International Institute of St. Louis is partnering with the AARP Foundation and VITA tax preparers to offer free tax preparation services. This initiative ensures everyone has access to professional help during tax season. Visit here https://www.iistl.org/taxes/ to learn more.

Beginning February 6, free tax preparation is available at the International Institute for older Americans, low- and moderate-income tax filers, people with disabilities and those with limited English language skills.

Appointments are open to the entire community and will be available February 6–April 15. However, priority is given to the International Institute clients and members of the local immigrant and refugee community. Appointments must be made in advance by calling 314-655-0929 or at www.iistl.org/taxes.

Services are in partnership with AARP with IRS-certified VITA (Volunteers Income Tax Assistance) volunteers.

01/27/2025

The International Institute of St. Louis, in partnership with the Office of New Americans, invites you to celebrate International Food Day on Friday, January 31st at City Hall starting at 11 am.
Indulge in the incredible flavors of Vietnamese cuisine provided by Pho Long Restaurant as we honor the Lunar New Year. 🎉
Join us to enjoy delicious food, connect with the community, and celebrate cultural traditions. Everyone is welcome!
Please feel free to share with your friends and network!

01/26/2025

Today, our IISTL team celebrate the grand opening of Leona Market, a shining example of the creativity, resilience, and hard work of our immigrant community. At the heart of our mission is a deep commitment to standing with immigrants, supporting their journeys, and fostering opportunities for them to thrive. Immigrants enrich our economy, culture, and communities, and today is a testament to that.
A special thank you to Alderwoman Anne Schweitzer and Gilberto Pinela, for their invaluable support during the licensing and permitting process. Your dedication to empowering local businesses has made this achievement possible. And a sincere congratulations to Mary Badra, whose determination and vision brought this dream to life! We work together to build a more inclusive and vibrant future.
Leona Market is also partnering with Bread and Bake, offering artisan breads crafted with love, care, and the finest ingredients.

01/24/2025

Leona Market Grand Opening @ 5701 Leona Street
January 25, 2025 | 10:00am—5:00pm

Mary Badra, owner of SunRise catering, is originally from Bethlehem, where she worked as a teacher and guided young girls in baking and culinary skills.

In 2015, she made the courageous decision to relocate to the USA, seeking a better future for her family. In St Louis, with the assistance of the International Institute Community Development Corporation, she launched her catering business to share her cooking with the community.

Her new brick-and-mortar, Leona Market, opens in the Holly Hills neighborhood this weekend, bringing freshly-baked Mediterranean baked goods and groceries to the community.

Leona Market Grand Opening @ 5701 Leona Street
January 25, 2025 | 10:00am—5:00pm

01/07/2025

Bazaar News!!!🌟
Join us for the Community Bazaar at the International Institute St. Louis. This is a celebration of diversity, culture, and entrepreneurship!
This is your chance to support our talented immigrant business owners who are bringing their unique products, services, and stories to the community. Together, we can uplift and empower these incredible entrepreneurs while enjoying an unforgettable experience.
Let’s make a difference by championing inclusivity and innovation.
Mark your calendar and spread the word! More details to come.

12/21/2024

From all of us on the Economic Development Team, we wish all the amazing people, small businesses, and community partners a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year! Thank you for making our diverse community stronger. Here’s to continued success and collaboration in the year ahead.

12/19/2024

With the holiday spirit in our hearts, we thank you for supporting our Holiday Bazaar on December 6th! It was truly a celebration of culture, entrepreneurship, and community. 🎄✨
This event showcased:
🌟 Empowering immigrant small business owners
🤝 Connecting with community partners
📚 Exploring valuable resources for our diverse community
Your support made it possible to highlight local talent, shop for unique holiday gifts, and experience the vibrant spirit of our community. Together, we celebrated the season while making a positive impact!
The Bazaar Team can’t wait to see you at next year’s Community Bazaar! 🌍❤️

12/13/2024

Our Holiday Bazaar last week was filled with incredible fun and joy, especially with the kids and their toys! 🌟✨

11/25/2024

We are GRATEFUL for our IICDC Family!!

11/05/2024

Read more about the amazing story of Ferdous, who was a participant in our Individual Development Account (IDA) partnership program with the United Way of Greater St. Louis and purchased a new home for him and his family not too long after arriving to St. Louis from Afghanistan.

UWGSL created the IDA program to help people save for a specific financial goal, like buying a house or car, or starting a new business.