Gabayan Final PDF

FINAL TIGRA GUIDEBOOK To2y.
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FINAL TIGRA GUIDEBOOK To2y.indd 2
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To Our New Kababayans in America: Welcome to your home away from home! Recently, we met most of you at a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) in Manila where you were briefly introduced to the work of TIGRA and its Remit4Change program. You asked us to assist in your transition to America, so we have prepared this Resource Guide to help in that endeavor. It is our modest attempt to provide you with tools and relevant information that you can use to navigate your way through a new environment. We hope you find it useful. TIGRA will remain committed to play a role in your life as new immigrants in the United Statesnot just in providing you with information on local resources but in giving you opportunities to become active participants in making a difference in your new community here and in the ones you left behind in the Philippines. Through various programs and activities, we will seek to make your economic choices matter in the lives of your family and communities across borders by living up to these values: EMPOWERMENT OF TRANSNATIONAL FAMILIES. As a new immigrant, you will be presented with new choices on how to exercise your economic power. We want to provide you with the information and strategies on how to utilize these to directly benefit your family and uplift communities. STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH INDUSTRIES THAT DEPEND ON MIGRATION. We will provide pro-active ways for businesses, big and small, that depend on migrant dollars to support community-based projects that affect the quality of life of our families. Remittance companies, employment agencies, financial institutions, telecommunication agencies, to local restaurants and retail outlets will be enjoined to reinvest in projects and initiatives in our communities. DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW RESOURCE BASE TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY-BASED ENTERPRISES. Many frontline organizations in the Philippines and in the United States are engaged in important projectslivelihood efforts, community-based banking and investments, integration services for immigrants and reintegration of returned migrants, as well as organizing and rights-protection workthat are oftentimes unrecognized and almost always undervalued and underfunded. TIGRA has set up the Transnational Community Reinvestment Fund to address this situation by identifying worthwhile projects and by raising funds to support their work. Wed like you to join us in promoting these values and in pursuing this vision. Again, welcome kababayan, at mabuhay tayong lahat! Francis Calpotura Founder & Executive Director
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COMPASS TABLE OF CONTENTS

YOUR GABAYAN.....................................
01 03 06 08 Commission of Filipino Overseas Letter SF Mayor Message TIGRA/Remit4Change Philippine Beneficiary Organizations Linkapil Batis Center for Women Ercof Unlad Kabayan Atikha Other Beneficiary Organizations 30-Day Survival Guide Jerry Onett Resource Guide Economic/Financial Education
GABAYAN. Life is a journey from one state to another, from one place to the next. Yours is a more specific journey of moving from our home country the Philippines to a new country where you seek greener pastures. In this new place, you need someone to help you, to assist you, to accompany you, to journey with you. We are here for you.
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Upwardly Global exists to bring them together.
Employers are looking for experienced global talent.
Immigrants want to build their carrers.
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TIGRAs Dream:
Making Economic Choices Matter
Welcome dear Kababayan! We are so happy to have you in TIGRAs First Welcome Fair, Pagdating sa America: Your Home Away from Home! Sana nga, sa kalaunan, you will feel right at home with us too. For starters, like when we meet new acquaintances, we start off with some getting-know-one another. So let me take this opportunity to introduce TIGRA to all of you. And for those who have met TIGRA before, this is a chance to re-introduce TIGRA. TIGRA stands for Transnational Institute for Grassroots Research and Action. We are a non-governmental organization, or a non-profit in the U.S. context. It works with and for immigrants from various countries. Aside from those coming from the Philippines, TIGRA services and works with different immigrants groups from Mexico, El Salvador, Ecuador, Bangladesh,
etc. Although it carries research in its name, this is actually just one of the programs or services it offers the immigrant sector. It also does organizing, education work, produces relevant information and communication materials, fund-raising, advocacy, networking and a host of other activities. TIGRA dreams of a hopefully not-so-distant future, where people of different nations, but especially those from developing countries like the Philippines or Bangladesh or Mexico, migrate to wherever they want to, be-
cause they want to. That should not be the privilege only of the few. In that future that TIGRA envisions, migration is a choice and not an economic necessity. There, migrating somewhere is not something people have to do because they feel there are no opportunities for a better life for them and their children in their own countries. TIGRA works towards a vision where going from one place to another is a right that is exercised, and is seen and experienced by all as an option among many, that will lead to fulfillment, growth and learning--not just for the in-
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dividual, but for their communities and their countries.
In the medium-term, because realistically, migration is still far from being a choice, and is a very real push factor for mil3. To organize and help emlions to seek greener pastures power migrants and immigrants and often the green card, TIGin the receiving countries, and RA targets the following goals: their families at the countries of origin, to participate in all levels 1. To advocate for the protecof policy and decision-making tion of the rights and welfare of that affects their lives. migrants and immigrants, specifically their economic rights, both in the countries they origi- Towards this vision, TIGRA hopes to contribute to the crenated from and the countries ation of encouraging and enthey migrated to;
2. To demand accountability and responsibility from businesses and governments benefiting from the situation of migrants and immigrants, and their families and communities, by engaging and challenging them to provide quality, relevant, affordable and accessible services; to promulgate and implement fair and just migrationrelated policies; and to reinvest in development projects that promote and protect the sectors rights and welfare; and
abling situations and opportunities where immigrants, their families and communities, will be able to make economic choices that matter. This means that when they buy or procure some product or service, using their hard-earned money, their decision-making will consider not just value and quality, but also the commitment of companies to support communities. We at TIGRA want to make every economic choice an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of transnational communities. We believe that we can exercise our economic power to forge meaningful partnerships with the private and public sectors that can result in more jobs, better health and education, and a more robust financial infrastructure to foster long-term sustainable development in communities affected by migration.
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procure from those who sell, especially products and services related to migration -- banks, money transfer companies, real estate, airline companies, tourism establishments, balikbayan-related industry players, etc. These all benefit from the situation of migrants and immigrants and their families, at billions of dollars each year -- and should thus play a role in giving back to this sector and their communities. These businesses owe them that. Hence, TIGRA works to facilitate these -- finding, negotiating and working with companies exercising good corporate responsibility, and providing them with pro-active strategies to support frontline initiatives in our communities TIGRA is not anti-capital. It of origin and destination. does not oppose profit. But it fights for a quid pro quo rela- Tall order huh? It sure is. Sometions between the people who one said that nothing that is TIGRA makes this pitch at a time when peoples hard-earned money, which took them many years to save up, are eaten away by consumerism that entices people to spend on food that kill (e. g. agricultural products that are pesticide-laced; or french fries with extremely long shelf life because of high-dose of preservatives); real-estate that go under (e. g. high-rise condominiums erected along earthquake faults), or send remittances at very exorbitant charges. Examples abound of the push for senseless consumption of goods and services that makes one buy, buy, buy, without really giving the people their moneys worth.
worth doing is ever completed in a lifetime? These things that TIGRA holds dear are just that -- they are so worth doing, even if they seem daunting! Nakakalula, ika nga. Herculean as it is, the people who make up TIGRA, from its Founder, its Board of Trustees and its staff (at sana, makasama din namin kayo), embrace this dream, this vision. We see these aspirations as doable and achievable. Not right away. But in small, incremental steps. And always in partnership with many others from within and outside the US, government agencies, conscientious industry sector players, civil society actors, communities, the academe, media, etc. -- who share this vision, and are willing to walk the road with us in TIGRA. Wanna walk with us on this?
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PHILIPPINE BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATION
BATIS CENTER FOR WOMEN

Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
composed of children of the women returnees in 2000. Batis serves the multi-dimensional needs of women migrants and their families through psycho-social assistance, capacity development, and business incubation. From the provision of direct assistance and welfare services, Batis developed its programs and services until the institution had the capability to address the medium-term needs of the women through awarenessraising, organizing, alternative livelihood projects / social enterprise development,
Batis Center for Women is an NGO working to address the needs and concerns of returned di stressed Filipino women migrant workers from Japan and other countries; and their families through organizing, education and training, social enterprise development, scholarship and educational assistance, legal and medical assistance, counseling and advocacy. Since 1988, Batis Center for Women aims to transform womens status as clients to empowered individuals. It provides support to women and children of migrant families as they go through the process of taking control of their lives. The realization of this vision has prompted the formation of Batis AWARE, the self-help organization of Filipino women returnees in 1996 and Batis-YOGHI
and other social and economic reintegration activities. Their innovative LESS is More approach captures the spirit of migrant social enterprise: Linking Economic and Social Initiatives for Support in Scaling Up and Sustainability!
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Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines Unlad Kabayan is a social entrepreneurship NGO linking migration to community development in the Philippines. By building the financial and business capacity of migrant communities, Unlad Kabayan helps communities collectively harness their resources for decent jobs and livelihoods in the Philippines so Filipinos can migrate out of choice, not necessity. In I994, Migrant Savings for Alternative Investment (MSAI) was developed as a reintegration strategy by migrant groups as a pilot project of the Asian Migrant Centre, a regional NGO in Hong Kong. The goal was to reverse the outflow of Filipino migrants overseas by building job opportunities at home. In 1996, Unlad Kabayan was founded in the Philippines as a separate NGO to pioneer the MSAI program. MSAI evolved from a reintegration strategy for migrant workers to an alternative economic model. MSAI
UNLAD KABAYAN
goes beyond mobilizing migrant savings overseas and now works towards investing for community development and eventual migrant reintegration.
for entrepreneurial innovation. The program assists community entrepreneurs to build, manage and sustain their enterprises, and eventually the community economy sector. Business InUnlad Kabayan is also involved cubation enables small and mein credit provision, education dium entrepreneurs to learn the and financial training, advoca- rigors of business management cy, business incubation, and re- and social responsibility. search. Their two core strategies are: SEEDS (Social Entrepre- Unlad Kabayan measures sucneurship and Enterprise Devel- cess both by the social impact opment Services) and Business on migrant families and comIncubation (BI). SEEDS pro- munities and the economic immotes entrepreneurship through pact in terms of jobs created businessskills training and edu- and sustained through profitable cation and serves as a laboratory ventures.
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Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
ERCOF
Economic Resource Center for Overseas Filipinos (ERCOF) Philippines, Inc. was established in 2003 by a group of Filipinos in Europe. ERCOF envisions an economically, politically and spiritually empowered Philippines that is sustained by developed local economies, and by the strategic use of the resources of its citizens locally and overseas. ERCOF aims to link overseas Filipinos with economic resources- education, investment platforms and partnerships- that can help them utilize and maximize their resources, skills, technologies, talents, human capital and other resources for more productive use in the migrants communities in the Philippines and overseas.
ERCOF is committed to building the capacities of rural institutions including rural banks and cooperatives. In line with this commitment, ERCOF has established relationships with select rural banks. This platform encourages overseas Filipinos to course their money through rural banks, who are themselves committed to lending within the local economy. For overseas Filipinos who are able to save money, keeping a time deposit at a rural bank
an overseas Filipino can invest in a dairy cow and receive a return based on milk sales and calves. Investing in rural cooperatives can have larger economic benefits as the fledgling ERCOF is also engaged in re- ERCOF has also established an local milk industry is in need search on migration and devel- innovative partnership with a of investments that enable it to opment in partnership with oth- dairy cooperative (DVF Dairy grow its livestock base and proFarm in Nueva Ecija) in which vide continuous product. er organizations. enables the bank to make more productive loans in the community and also provides a stable Return on Investment for the overseas Filipino.
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San Pablo, Laguna, Philippines Atikha is an NGO that provides economic and social services to overseas Filipinos and their families in the Philippines. The organization aims to help address the social cost of migration and tap the development potential of migration.
ATIKHA
Atikha believes that social preparedness of the families and the community is an important component for an effective reintegration program for migrant workers. As such, Atikha is committed to financial education and capacity-building Atikha was initiated in 1995 by among migrants and their famia group of migrant returnees, lies, local government organizaadvocates and religious leaders tions, NGOs, cooperatives, and in Laguna. It was established rural financial institutions. based on a study that revealed the social cost of migration, es- Atikha mobilizes savings and pecially on the children left be- investments of OFs towards hind. In the initial years, Atikha rural development through PIfocused its work on addressing NOY WISE (Worldwide Initiasocial problems brought about tive for Savings Investment and by family separation. Since Entrepreneurship)- a financial 2001 Atikha has been pioneer- education program for OFs in ing efforts to link migration and their destination country and local economic development. families left behind in their Although overseas migration province of origin. Atikha also has raised the standard of living promotes savings consciousof families, it has not contribut- ness among children and youth ed substantially to the economic through Batang Atikha (Youth) Savers Club. In addition, Atikha development of communities.
has been able to provide financial literacy and peer counseling modules among stakeholder institutions such as elementary and high schools, local government units, and national government agencies.
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Manila, Philippines
LINKAPIL
In 1989, the Commission of Filipinos Overseas established a donations program in response to the desire of Filipinos Overseas to revisit their homeland in ways that rekindle the traditional bayanihan spirit. Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino or LINKAPIL extends the concept of mutual cooperation -- heretofore experienced at barrio or village levels -- beyond borders. LINKAPIL remains the Philippine governments most comprehensive program that engages the Filipino diaspora in serviceoriented developmental activities nation-wide. LINKAPIL facilitates donations in the areas of education, livelihood and micro-enterprise development, small-scale infrastructure, and health and welfare. Overseas Filipinos can adopt-a-scholar or contribute books and educational materials, donate for medicine and other relief goods for calamityaffected areas and donate for water-well projects in their areas of choice. The program also encourages overseas-based Filipinos and foreign nationals of Filipino descent to return on a short-term visit to conduct lectures and promote technology transfers in their fields of expertise. The traditional Philippine values of pakikisama, utang na loob, and damayan are enshrined in the LINKAPIL program. In concrete terms, during its 20-year existence, these have been translated in the form of PhP2.49 billion or $62 million worth of assistance that have
reached an estimated 14 million beneficiaries. These donations were directed to rehabilitation and reconstruction projects in communities all over the Philippines for infrastructure, livelihood, education, calamity relief assistance, skills transfer, and health care.
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Other Groups Around the World
BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATIONS
San Salvador, San Salvador, El Salvador http://www.asefin.org/ The mission of the Salvadoran Association of Financial Education (ASEFIN) is to promote the necessary knowledge of financial education among the economically and socially marginalized population, to enable people to make better decisions in their personal and domestic finances and improve their quality of life. ASEFINs vision of justice becomes actualized as it is recognized nationally and internationally for successes in supporting the economy of individuals and households through real alternatives for personal development.
Seoul, Korea http://www.en.asianbridge.asia/
San Francisco Tetlanohcan, Tlaxcala, Mexico http://iipsocultaus.wordpress. com/ Instituto de Investigacin y Prctica Social y Cultural (IIPSOCULTAInstitute for Social and Cultural Practice and Research) has been working in Mexico since 2001 to create conditions for equity and justice in Latin America through education, organizing, and solidarity work. IIPSOCULTA has developed various projects in Latin America with an eye to people affected by globalization. Local councils decide autonomously what projects and activities will benefit their communities, and the work is accomplished by community youth and volunteers from around the world.
Founded in 2003, Asian Bridge offers a development model combining ecological, cultural, and human resource sources that can be shared broadly through a range of communities and networks. The Asian Bridge works on activities that will enhance cultural awareness among Asian communities through education and eco-cultural programs.
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Jackson Heights, New York, Providence, Rhode Island, USA USA http://onaprovidence.org/ http://www.maketheroad.org/ Make the Road New York (MRNY) promotes economic justice, equity and opportunity for all New Yorkers. All of the communities in which the organization works are predominantly populated by poor and working-class immigrant Latinos and African Americans, providing comprehensive training to low-income New Yorkers on leadership skills, media advocacy, civics, community and electoral organizing, and strategic policy advocacy. Olneyville Neighborhood Association (ONA) is based in Providence, Rhode Islands poorest neighborhood, with the highest concentration of immigrants, particularly people without legal status. ONAs mission is to organize low-income families, immigrant communities and people of color in order to create a diverse, community-led, democratic and non-partisan political movement that wins economic, social and political justice.
Restaurant Opportunities Center of NY New York, New York, USA http://www.rocny.org/ The Restaurant Opportunities Center of New York (ROC-NY) works to improve conditions for restaurant workers and raising public recognition of restaurant workers contributions to the city. Its members include nearly 2,500 restaurant workers and their families from all parts of the world and from all different sectors of this nations fastestgrowing industry. ROC-NY provides unique front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house training at no cost to thousands of restaurant workers and those seeking employment in restaurants.
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New York, New York, USA http://www.nytwa.org/ Founded in 1998, the New York Taxi Workers Alliance (NYTWA) is the 11,000+ member-strong union of NYC yellow taxicab drivers, many of whom are immigrants from South Asia. NYTWA fights for justice, rights, respect and dignity for over 43,000 licensed men and womenwith 26,000 steady driverswho labor 12hour shifts with little pay and no benefits. NYTWAs work overcomes obstacles of independent contractor organizing, a politically influential and consolidated ownership, and a regulatory agency absent of any public accountability or labor voice.
Oakland, California, USA http://wagescooperatives.org/ Womens Action to Gain Economic Security (WAGES) has worked with low-income immigrant Latinas to launch green business cooperativesa model that enables women to work together to succeed. As co-op members, women have healthy work, good pay, and a voice and a vote in key decisions, and they distribute business profits equitably. WAGES provides training and technical assistance to incubate the co-ops. It has also provided technical assistance for a number of new co-ops inspired by the model opportunities.
Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh http://www.warbe.org/english/ WARBE Development Foundation is a nonprofit communitybased migrants organization in Dhaka, Bangladesh, working at the grassroots level to promote safe migration, sustainable reintegration and migrants rights. Organized by returnee migrant workers, WARBE DF took the pioneer role in Bangladesh to deal with the issues of migrants rights and welfare. WARBE DF has undertaken many development activities for the wellbeing of migrant workers and their families to empower them to realize their potential as catalysts for socio-economic development.
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Haryana, India http://nedan.in/ The NEDAN FOUNDATION promotes sustainable development in the North Eastern States of India Among the poorest ethnic communities to innovate and disseminate the means for creating livelihoods and to mobilize to eradicate poverty and regenerate the environment. NEDAN addresses such issues as human rights, trafficking in women and children, self-sufficiency and livelihood, gender, sexuality, reproductive and sexual health (RSH), HIV/ AIDS, the environment.
Kathmandu, Nepal http://www.pourakhi.org.np/ POURAKHI was established by returned women migrant workers, with the objective of ensuring the rights of women in the entire process of foreign employment. POURAKHI has established itself as a pioneering organization, striving to make migration safe and secure. POURAKHI provides counseling, legal support and other post-return services in person, as well as providing information on safe migration through a regular weekly radio program.
Zacatecas, Mexico http://www.crea.org.mx/ CREA trains and advises lowincome women in Mexico to grow their businesses, generate employment, and open new distribution channels for their products. They work to generate employment opportunities as an alternative to migration in marginalized communities. CREAs partners are female micro-entrepreneurs, working to develop their business skills, create a network of female-led microenterprises linked to another network of mentors, and develop healthy products and businesses that participate successfully and professionally in the national and international markets.
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YOUR FIRST 30 DAYS NEWCOMERS SURVIVAL GUIDE

Maligayang
pagdating
sa America!
#1: GET
We wish you the best Having local identification is of luck in the start of critical in navigating the U.S. your new journey sa States. a. Apply for a State-issued Here are the necessary identification card from the steps you must take to DMV. establish yourself and help your families here and b. Go to your local Public in the Philippines. Library and get a library
A LOCAL ID.
#2:
YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY & GREEN CARD PROCESSING

a. For Social Security, log onto http://socialsecurity.gov/ , visit your local social security office or call 1-800-772-1213 b. For Green Card, if you do not receive your green card within 30 days of your arrival, please call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 or visit your local office by making an InfoPass appointment. Make an appointment by visiting http://infopass.uscis.gov/
FOLLOWUP ON
TOP FIVE STEPS TO DO IN YOUR FIRST 30 DAYS:
card. Bring your passport, and documentation (Rent agreement, California ID, that would have your name and the local address on it)
Continue to visit www.remit4change.com for activities in your area and how you can become involved in improving the lives of your family here and the ones you left behind in the Philippines!
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A BANK
#3: OPEN
ACCOUNT
#4:
Having a bank account can stabilize your financial needs. TIGRA is promoting the use of CREDIT UNIONS in your local area because of two main reasons: (1) their mission is to support development and businesses in the community they serve and where you live, so you directly benefit from it, and (2) since theyre a non-profit, they tend to care more about you than feeding their bottom line, which result in better terms and products. To find the closest credit union near you, go to www.lovemycreditunion.org
JOB SEARCH
BEGIN YOUR
#5:
Remember to be patient and have perseverance, you are not alone! Start searching local listings online (craigslist.org), newspapers classified section, and bulletin boards in church, grocery stores, and restaurants. Once you have a job opening in mind, prepare a 1-page resume about your work experience and skills. You can sign up for TIGRAs workshops on resume prep-arations and activities by emailing lesclamado@transnationalaction.org. Local non-profit employment centers can assist you with You would need to bring your job search skills and can conlocal ID, or your Philippine nect you with job fairs and netPassport and something that has working. Meet as many people your name and your local ad- as you can! The more people dress on it. you know, the more possibility there is a job!
SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE REMITTANCE PROVIDER

Now your ready to contribute to the development of communities back home. TIGRA has accredited a number of remittance service providers who agree to do the following: (1) provide you a fairly-priced remittance service, and (2) donate to projects that you choose from the list of migrant-centered development projects in the Philippines and elsewhere. Visit www. remit4change.com/our-companies/ to see which one fits your needs. To register with any of these providers, you would need: (1) Your bank account and routing numbers; (2) the name of your recipient in the Philippines. And if youll send directly to their account, their bank name, branch address, and account number.
SIGN UP FOR A
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Guide to Resources
Congratulations on your journey to America. Now that you have arrived you must have many questions! The following section will provide you with information and resources to ease your transition. Also visit our website remit4change.com/welcome/ for a listing of services, resources and events in your area.
Welcome to the United States!
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TIPS ON GETTING SETTLED

YOUR GREEN CARD
Upon arrival in the United States, you will be mailed your Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551). Your Permanent Resident Card (or Green Card) shows that you are allowed to live and work in the United States. You also can use your Permanent Resident Card to re-enter the United States. If you are outside the U.S. for more than 12 months, you will need to show additional documentation to re-enter the U.S. as a permanent resident. If you do not receive your green card within 30 days of your arrival, please call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-3755283 or visit your local office by making an InfoPass appointment. Make an appointment by visiting http://infopass.uscis.gov/
GUIDE TO RESOURCES
of your earnings and the benefits you can get. It is also used by banks and other agencies, such as schools, to identify you. You may be asked for your SSN when you rent an apartment or buy a home. The government department in charge of Social Security is called the Social Security Administration. To apply for a social security card you may go to http://socialsecurity.gov/ , visit your local social security office or call 1-800-772-1213
GET A STATE ID OR DRIVERS LICENSE
It is useful to have a local identification card (ID). You will need an ID to apply for a job, open a bank account, or enroll your children in school. You can apply for an identification card from the state office that issues drivers licenses, such as the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For the nearest DMV office visit http:// www.dmv.ca.gov/ or call 1-800-777-0133. The DMV also issues drivers license. Once you are ready to drive you must apply and take a driving exam. It is against the law to drive without a drivers license. Contact the DMV when you are ready to apply for your drivers license.
GETTING A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
EMPLOYMENT
As a permanent resident, you can get a Social Security number (SSN). A Social Security number is a number assigned to you by the United States government. It helps the government keep track
Finding a job can be challenging and discouraging. Just remember, you are not alone and dont give up! Here are a few tips to make your job search successful.
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First, you should have a resume prepared. You can use a computer to create a resume. If you dont have access to a computer, visit your local public library. They will have computers that are generally free to use, just sign up for a library card. Access to a computer is important as many jobs are posted online and oftentimes applications for jobs are completed and submitted online. There are many places to look for employment: 1) Ask your friends and family to look out for job openings. 2) The internet is a great place to look for jobs. There are a number of sites that post jobs, such as craigslist.org, (insert others here) 3) The Classified Section in the local newspaper. 4) Private employment agencies - These private companies will often offer job-readiness training and placement. There may be a fee involved so be sure to ask first. 5) Non-profit employment organizations These organizations can provide assistance in resume preparation and placement. They may also know about job fairs. 6) Community bulletin board found at the library, church, grocery store or community center. 7) The Resource Guide on page (insert) has a number of employment resources.
ity to work or your childs school, access to public transportation and the grocery store. If you dont have a car you may think about finding a place close to public transportation. If you have children, where you live can determine where they go to school. As far as affordability, a good rule of thumb is the cost of housing should be about 30% of your total income. Once youve found a job and are ready to rent an apartment or home, here are some important things to know: Lease or Rental Agreement: A rental agreement provides for a tenancy of a short period (often 30 days) that is automatically renewed at the end of the period unless the tenant or landlord ends it by giving written notice. For these month-to-month rentals, the landlord can change the terms of the agreement with proper written notice. A written lease, on the other hand, gives a renter the right to occupy a rental unit for a set term -most often for six months or a year but some times longer -- as long as the tenant pays the rent and complies with other lease provisions. The landlord cannot raise the rent or change other terms of the tenancy during the lease, unless the tenant agrees. Security Deposit: A security deposit is a landlords way of guaranteeing that he or she will be compensated for any damages that may occur while a tenant is living on the property.
FINDING A PLACE TO LIVE
There are many factors in choosing where to live. Some things to think about are: affordability, location, amenities such as laundry on site, proxim-
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The amount of this deposit is usually no more than one months rent, but can be more. Before you move in, do a walk through with the landlord or property manager to assess the condition of the unit, noting any damage or things that need to be repaired. Keep this document as you may need to refer to it at the end of your tenancy. Know your Rights You will likely rent your first apartment or home here in the States. As a renter, you must know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of who you are. It is against the law for landlords to reject you because of race or color, country of origin, religion, gender, physical disability or family status, such as whether or not you are married. If you feel that you have been discriminated against for the above reasons, please contact one of the resources listed under the housing section of our resource guide. Ways to find housing: Look in the Classified section of your local newspaper. Online resources such as Craigslist (www.craigslist.org) Ask your church or other faith-based organization for resources Community-based organizations may assist in housing placements or housing searches. Ask friends or family to look out for
available housing. Walk, bike or drive around your desired neighborhood looking for For Rent signs or look in local cafes, grocery stores and community centers they often have bulletin boards with postings.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR MONEY
A bank account is a safe place to keep your money. The two most common bank accounts are: Checking accounts - for paying bills, and savings accounts - for earning interest on your money. You can open an account for yourself or a joint account with your spouse or another person. Banks may charge you fees for some of their services. Credit unions and savings and loan associations are other choices for banking. Your employer may have a credit union that you can join. Credit unions provide most of the same services as banks, but many offer extra services. Compare the services, fees, hours, and locations of banks before you open an account, so you can choose one that best meets your needs.
HEALTHCARE
It is important to have health insurance in the United States as health care costs are very high. In general, employers provide health insurance to their employees or people pay for their own health insurance. There are some government health plans for children, seniors and those who qualify (usually by income) check with your local community clinic, hospital or Department of
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Public Health for information on no-cost or lowcost insurance plans. Avoid the high cost of medical care by living a healthful lifestyle, exercising regularly and eating a well-balanced diet. Schedule regular visits to your doctor. People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and women who are pregnant should see a doctor right away so that their conditions can be managed. Young children are required to get vaccinations/immunizations before they can go to school. Make sure to take the children for their vaccines. If you take traditional medicine, make sure to let the doctor know as it may interfere with prescription drugs.
The United States requires that all children attend school. Check with your state to find the required ages for school attendance. To enroll your child in public school call your local public school district. After high school, students continue to college, vocational schools, private or public universities or trade schools. Check with each school for their enrollment process. For public colleges be aware that there is typically a 1-year required residency before you pay local tuition fees, otherwise you will pay out-of-state fees which are much higher in cost.
EDUCATION
The United States provides free public education to children from Kindergarten to 12th grade. Most children are in school for 13 years, this includes, Kindergarten; Elementary School - 1st grade to 5th grade; Middle School - 6th grade to 8th grade and High School - 9th grade to 12th grade. In addition to public schools, there are private academic schools, private religious schools. Private schools generally require a tuition fee to attend. Another free public school option is charter school. Charter schools are typically smaller in size, have more autonomy and are funded differently than public schools.
OTHER PLACES TO FIND INFORMATION:

Public Library Telephone Book Internet Schools Community Colleges Churches Community Organizations
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GUIDE TO RESOURCES
LIST OF RESOURCES
EMPLOYMENT
Upwardly Global 582 Market St. Suite 1207 San Francisco, CA 94104 Phone: 415-834-9901 www.upwardlyglobal.org Upwardly Global is a national non-profit organization that helps work-authorized, skilled immigrants rebuild their professional careers in the U.S. UpGlo provide professional job-search training and access to employers with global talent needs. To date, they have coached nearly 3,000 skilled immigrants and have assisted more than 1,200 skilled immigrants back into their career fields. South of Market Employment Center 288 7th Street San Francisco, CA 94103 415-865-2105 http://www.missionhiringhall.org/ The South of Market Employment Center is based in San Francisco. They provide free employment services such as resume preparation, skills assessment and job placement. One Stop Career Link Center 1500 Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94102 (415) 575-4570 http://www.workforcedevelopmentsf.org/jobseekerservices/ The One Stop Career Link Center System provides workforce services for San Francisco residents. Such services include career planning, job search assistance, and retention services in order to enhance the skills and aptitudes of San Fran-
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ciscos workforce and to assist them with finding employment as quickly as possible. Peninsula Works 271 92nd Street Daly City, CA 94015 650-301-8440 http://www.peninsulaworks.org/JobSeekers.html Peninsula Works is the premier source for employment and training solutions in San Mateo County. Peninsula Works helps job seekers, laid off workers, and businesses that are in need of tapping into a diverse pool of talent to remain competitive. Tagalog-speakers available. Tri-Cities One-Stop Career Center 39155 Liberty St., Suite B200 Fremont, CA 94538 510) 794-3669 https://www.eastbayworks.com/alamedacounty/ Located in Newark and Fremont, the Tri-Cities One-Stop Career Centers are publicly-funded resource hubs for jobs, employment, education, training and business development. Eviction Defense Collaborative 995 Market Street #1200 San Francisco, CA 94103-1725 (415) 947-0797 www.evictiondefense.org The Eviction Defense Collaborative is the principal organization in San Francisco helping low-income tenants respond to eviction lawsuits. Each year they provide emergency legal services and rental assistance to over 5,000 tenants in San Francisco. The majority of tenants we help are extremely low income and facing the immediate threat of becoming homeless. Bay Area Legal Aid 1735 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612 Legal Assistance Line: (510) 250-5270 http://baylegal.org/ Bay Area Legal Aid provides free civil legal advice, counsel and representation to low-income people living in the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara. BayLegals practice areas include Fair Housing Law Enforcement and Homelessness Prevention.
HOUSING
Bill Sorro Housing Program 1010 Mission Street, Ste. C San Francisco, CA 94103 415-255-2347 BiSHoP is a community-based program committed to addressing housing related issues for low to moderate income Filipino families and seniors. BiSHoP provides an array of free services such as housing referrals, housing application assistance and outreach.
FINANCE & BANKING

The Beehive http://www.thebeehive.org/ The Beehive is a non-profit website that links people to free help, information and resources on the internet, including information on money management, saving money, and financial coaching.
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GUIDE TO RESOURCES
LIST OF RESOURCES
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of San Francisco 595 Market Street, 15th Floor San Francisco, CA 1-800-777-7526 https://www.cccssf.org Learn how to manage your money for financial success. The Consumer Credit Counseling Service of San Francisco provides financial education from topics ranging from managing daily expenses to planning for retirement.
IMMIGRATION
Asian Law Caucus 55 Columbus Avenue San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 896-1701 http://www.asianlawcaucus.org/ Asian Law Caucus offers legal information, advice, referral, and/or brief services in the areas of asylum, deportation, domestic violence, naturalization, status adjustment, and family-based visa petitions. ALC serve hundreds of clients each year in a wide variety of languages through partnerships with community organizations across Northern California. Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach (APILO) 1305 Franklin Street, Suite 410 Oakland, CA 94612 510.251.2846 http://www.apilegaloutreach.org/ APILO provides legal, social, and educational services in more than a dozen languages and dialects, including Tagalog. Their work is currently focused in the areas domestic violence, violence
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against women, immigration and immigrant Bananas is a non-profit child care referral and rights, senior law and elder abuse, human traf- support agency serving the diverse families in ficking, public benefits, and social justice issues Northern Alameda County, California. We provide free parenting information, workshops and referrals to family child care, child care centers, San Francisco Bar Association preschools, babysitters, in-home caregivers, nan301 Battery Street, Third Floor nies and playgroups. We provide subsidized childSan Francisco, California 94111 care for parents in need. We also offer training, (415) 989-1616 workshops, classes and technical support to carehttp://www.sfbar.org/lawyerreferrals/index.aspx The Bar Association of San Francisco provides givers and childcare programs to assure parents legal services to disadvantaged and underserved a wide selection of quality childcare. individuals in San Francisco. They conduct free legal clinics and referrals to pre-screened attor- Peralta Community College System: Berkeley City College, College of Alameda, neys. Laney College, Merritt College Admissions & Records District Office 333 East 8th Street EDUCATION Oakland, CA 94606 (510) 466-7368 South of Market Family Resource Center http://web.peralta.edu/admissions/ 790 Folsom Street The Peralta Community College District comSan Francisco, CA prises four colleges serving northern Alameda (415) 820-3508 county. For more information regarding the enwww.somacc.org The South of Market Family Resource Center pro- rollment process, visit http://web.peralta.edu/advides support services in English, Spanish, and missions/ or call (510) 466-7368. Tagalog to families with children from infancy to age 17. Services include individual case management, parent support groups, basic needs assistance, and workshops on school enrollment and nutrition. We have three Tagalog speaking staff who coordinate the Certified Pilipino Parenting Program, Pilipino Support Group & conducts Individual Case Management. Bananas 5232 Claremont Avenue Oakland, CA 94618 (510) 658-7353 http://www.bananasinc.org/index.php City College of San Francisco Outreach and Recruitment Services 50 Phelan Avenue Multi Use Building, room 101 San Francisco, CA 94112 415.239.3557 outreach@mail.ccsf.edu The Office of Outreach and Recruitment Services provides high-quality comprehensive college readiness services to prospective students, high school and middle school students, K-12 faculty, staff, administrators from both public and private sectors, and community-based organizations.
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GUIDE TO RESOURCES
LIST OF RESOURCES
HEALTH
Asian Health Services 818 Webster Street Oakland, CA (510) 986-6800 http://www.asianhealthservices.org/ Asian Health Services is a community health center that offers primary health care services with 36 exam rooms and a dental clinic with 7 chairs. Our staff is fluent in English and nine Asian languages: Cantonese, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Korean, Khmer (Cambodian), Mien, Mongolian, Tagalog and Lao. Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program (HICAP) 407 Sansome Street San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 677-7524 http://www.cahealthadvocates.org/HICAP/ HICAP (the Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program) provides free and objective information and counseling about Medicare. Volunteer counselors can help you understand your specific rights and health care options. Tagalogspeakers available. ALAMEDA COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH CLEARINGHOUSE 1-888-604-4636 http://www.acphd.org/clearinghouse.aspx The Public Health Clearinghouse is a toll-free information and referral line. It offers an extensive database of health care and other services for children and families in Alameda County.
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South of Market Health Center 229 7th Street San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 503-6000 http://www.smhcsf.org/ SMHC is a non-profit community health center that provides comprehensive medical, dental and podiatry services to individuals, children and families who have difficulty getting healthcare. South of Market Mental Health Services Filipino American Counseling and Treatment Team 760 Harrison San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 836-1700 Psychiatric medication management, counseling, clinical case management & group therapy. Filipino counseling team. Citywide, but priority given to SOMA, Western Addition, & Tenderloin. Sliding scale. English, Cantonese, Spanish, Tagalog. Healthy San Francisco Hotline (415) 615-4588 info@healthysanfrancisco.org http://www.healthysanfrancisco.org/ Healthy San Francisco is an innovative program designed to make health care services accessible and affordable to uninsured San Francisco residents. It is operated by the San Francisco Department of Public Health (DPH).
Multi-Service Organizations
Filipino Advocates for Justice (FAJ) 310 8th Street, Suite 308 Oakland CA 94607 (510) 465-9876 http://www.filipinos4justice.org/ Filipino Advocates for Justices services continue to be centered around the needs of the most vulnerable in our community through our programs and advocacy. We assist newcomers in their transition to life here in the U.S. We are also a resource for positive youth development, and act to protect the rights of low wage workers. Filipino Community Center 4681 Mission St. SF, CA 94112 415-333-6267 http://filipinocc.org/ The Filipino Community Center (FCC) houses several programs and collaborative projects in the areas of immigrant rights, domestic violence, and youth leadership. Please check their website for more information. Veterans Equity Center (VEC) 1010 Mission Street, Suite C San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 255-2347 / www.vetsequitycenter.org The San Francisco Veterans Equity Center (VEC) is a multi-service center designed to provide linguistically competent and culturally appropriate services to the Filipino-American World War II Veterans and their immediate families living in San Francisco. These services include: outreach, information and referrals, translation, consultation, legal clinic, computer skills class, arts and crafts, recreation and social activities.
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GUIDE TO RESOURCES
LIST OF RESOURCES
Manilatown Heritage Foundation 868 Kearny Street San Francisco CA 94108 415-399-9580 http://www.manilatown.org/index.html Manilatown Heritage Foundation seeks to preserve and foster the rich cultural and artistic traditions of San Franciscos Filipino American community through their museum and cultural center The International Hotel Manilatown Center. The Center hosts many community events, educational workshops and gatherings. Visit their website for more information. Phililppine Consulate General 447 Sutter St., 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108 (415) 433-6666 www.philippinessanfrancisco.org The Consulate General is guided by the countrys national development goals and objectives. The Consulate General provides the following services: issuance of Philippine passports, travel documents and visas; Legalization or consularization (authentication/acknowledgement) of documents for use in the Philippines, such as Special Power of Attorney, Deeds, Oaths, etc; Civil registration of births, marriages, and deaths of Philippine nationals; Processing of application for dual citizenship; Overseas absentee voter registration.
This resource list was compiled by the Transnational Institute for Grassroots Research and Action (TIGRA).
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Monthly Family Budget
Total Projected Cost Total Actual Cost Total Difference Projected Monthly Income
Income 1 Income 2
Housing
Mortgage or rent Second mortgage or rent Phone Electricity Gas Water and sewer Cable Waste removal Maintenance or repairs Supplies Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Extra income Total monthly income
Actual Monthly Income

Income 1 Income 2 Extra income Total monthly income
Projected balance Actual balance Difference Savings/Investments Projected Cost Actual Cost Difference
Total Loans
Personal Student Credit card Credit card Credit card Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Retirement account Investment account College Other
Total Personal Care

Medical Hair/nails
$0 Projected Cost Actual Cost Difference
Total Transportation
Vehicle 1 payment Vehicle 2 payment Bus/taxi fare Insurance Licensing Fuel Maintenance Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Clothing Dry cleaning Health club Organization dues/fees Other
Total Gifts and Donations

Charity 1 Charity 2 Charity 3
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Total Insurance
Home Health Life Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Total Entertainment
Video/DVD CDs Movies Concerts
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Total Food
Groceries Dining out Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Sporting events Live theater Other
Total Children
Medical Clothing School tuition School supplies Organization dues or fees Lunch money Child care Other
Total Projected Cost Actual Cost Difference Pets

Food Medical Grooming Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Total
Total Taxes
Federal State Local Other
Projected Cost
Actual Cost
Difference
Include income, expenses and investment in the Philippines too!
Total
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TESTIMONIAL
JERRY ESPEJO
I am Jerry Espejo, Respiratory Therapist, and in partnership with my wife, Digna Espejo, RN, have operated a small business specializing in Home Respiratory Equipment for the past 10 years in the San Francisco-Bay Area. We have both lived in the U.S. now for over 20 years and are raising a family of five kids. I was invited to a meeting held in the TIGRA Oakland office to get a firsthand update from an official of the Philippine government. During the presentation I got a better understanding of TIGRAs purpose & goals. I was interested in helping as a Gabay and was soon given names of new immigrants to call.
My first contacts were a couple who had arrived about a month prior to my meeting them and made my new title as a Gabay an easy one. Their eagerness to jump into the pit were evident as they had applied for all the necessary paperwork, were card-carrying library members, learned BART and the local transportation and spent days walking miles soliciting local businesses for a chance at a job. Many immigrants arrive with a specific goal & a high expectation of landing a job. Realizing that our streets are made of concrete and asphalt and not gold can be disheartening. Having a Gabay from TIGRA assist you to prepare and perhaps overcome some obstacles will make your transition to the US a more memorable one.
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ANTONIO ONET LOPEZ

Newly arrived immigrant in San Francisco Bay Area, California
TESTIMONIAL
PERSEVERANCE, WILL POWER AND PRAYER
TIGRA, opened our doors for myself and my wife to many opportunities here in the USA, they were the ones who created the future for us here, in my early months of religiously surfing for jobs. All of us newcomers dreamed of BIGGER things here in the states. This is because back from our homeland, we have heard many good things about living and working in the land of milk and honey or land of opportunity. Although we got a lot of advice from our relatives or parents that living in the states is sometimes too harsh, still, we pursue our dreams for the sake of those who we left behind. From day 1, my wife, Ofel, and I started looking for a job. We were unrelenting: we took a long walk knocking on each establishment on both sides of the road looking for a job along San Pablo Ave, (we lived in El Cerrito del Norte). We didnt mind the cold weather, the exhaustion, weariness and empty stomach. Wherever we passed to a food kiosk or a department store, we were both thinking of self-pity, but it did not stop us from pursuing a job. Nevertheless it was a wake-up call for us to gain strength and we were determined to find a job. In the evening, we take turns using laptops for online applications. It was very frustrating though we never thought to give up. For almost 2 months, we both continued this routine. Frequently, we had to
visit the library in East Bay Works in San Pablo, East Bay Works in Richmond and El Cerrito Contra Costa. These were our main source of job hunting. When TIGRA came, this organization were the ones who opened the doors for us. I got an email from Geline Avila informing me about TIGRA, I didnt know anything about this organization, until Gelines email. We joined their Gabayan program, we like to thank our TIGRA Gabays, JERRY ESPEJO and his wife DIGNA for believing in us, they were our first employer, they were our lights at the end of our journey to the tunnel. Networking is one good thing that can lighten up your dreams, and TIGRA is one organization to know!!!! To date, Ofel and I have received phone calls for job interviews and a seminar for Upwardly Global courtesy of TIGRA. -Onet is originally from Lucena City, Province of Quezon, Philippines, he is the youngest of 5 siblings and a University of the East-BSBA Grad. He had worked as a Research Aide in UP for four years before going to Saudi Arabia, he then worked in the African Congo for almost 10 years as a logistics supervisor. Before coming to America, he was engaged in transport business in the Philippines. He was petitioned by his eldest sister and migrated with his wife, Ofel, last April, 2012.
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The Transnational Institute for Grassroots Research and Action (TIGRA) aims to address the root causes of migration. Harnessing the economic power of remittances (i.e. money sent to family left behind), we channel investments from socially-responsible companies to support projects working to make migration a choice and not a necessity for economic survival. 300 Filipinos every week migrate to the US as permanent residents. We help new immigrants to the US achieve financial stability by providing good information on economic issues. We also build community linkages through our gabay mentorship program which not only connects new immigrants to their kababayan in the US, but also to community-based organizations and local businesses. We believe the Filipino-American community can play a positive, enduring and substantial role in the economic and social development of the Philippines.
Our Flagship Strategy: Remit4Change represents more than 1400 immigrant associations around the world. As an Oakland, CA-based social enterprise, we leverage our vast network to invite socially-responsible financial and telecom companies to become accredited, adhering to standards of: transparency, accountability, fair pricing and a commitment to reinvest profits into sustainable community development projects. Remit4Change then connects communities and companies, employing consumer education, grassroots marketing and leadership development as means to promote accredited products, such as remittance (money transfer) options and international phone cards. Remit4Change members select a Beneficiary Organization to receive the corporate reinvestments generated by every transaction or purchase we then work to match those funds with support from foundations, companies, individuals and local organizations.
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900 Alice Street #400, Oakland, CA 94609 54 K-9th Street, Kamias, Quezon City, Philippines email us at tigra@transnationalaction.org transnationalaction.org remit4change.net
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FINAL TIGRA GUIDEBOOK To2y.

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COMPASS TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Upwardly Global exists to bring them together.

Employers are looking for experienced global talent.

Immigrants want to build their carrers.

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dividual, but for their communities and their countries.

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PHILIPPINE BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATION

BATIS CENTER FOR WOMEN

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PHILIPPINE BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATION

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PHILIPPINE BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATION

Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

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PHILIPPINE BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATION

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PHILIPPINE BENEFICIARY ORGANIZATION

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Other Groups Around the World

Seoul, Korea http://www.en.asianbridge.asia/

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YOUR FIRST 30 DAYS NEWCOMERS SURVIVAL GUIDE

YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY & GREEN CARD PROCESSING

TOP FIVE STEPS TO DO IN YOUR FIRST 30 DAYS:

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SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE REMITTANCE PROVIDER

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Welcome to the United States!

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TIPS ON GETTING SETTLED

GET A STATE ID OR DRIVERS LICENSE

GETTING A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

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FINDING A PLACE TO LIVE

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TAKING CARE OF YOUR MONEY

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OTHER PLACES TO FIND INFORMATION:

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FINANCE & BANKING

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