At IWRC, we work tirelessly to ensure that all our neighbors - regardless of where they come from, have an opportunity to thrive and contribute to our community's prosperity. Part of caring for our neighbors is getting to know who they are: their stories, experiences, and ways they contribute to make our region a better place. Below are stories we have gathered from neighbors from around the world who have made our community their new home. We will be collecting and sharing more stories here throughout the next year.
Leobardo Gembe and his wife came to the Evansville region a few years ago. He shares about how it was difficult for him and his wife to settle in a new place and how he thinks having a welcome center is a great resource for immigrants in our community. Watch the video to learn more about his story!
Dr. Kevin Valadares is a professor and chairperson of the Department of Health Care Administration at the University of Southern Indiana. His family is originally from India, and Kevin grew up in Canada. Dr. Valadares followed in his father’s footsteps as a connector and an educator. Kevin asked and continues to ask the same question in Evansville, Indiana, since he arrived here in 2001: “How can we help our community come together and grow?” Learn more about Dr. Valadares' story here.