Refugee Social Services (RSS)

African Services Coalition’s RSS is the longest running program in our office. The aim of the RSS program is to provide short-term assistance for refugees and other eligible populations to obtain and sustain economic self-sufficiency through employment-related services. The program is supported by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services State Refugee Office. For more information about the NC State Refugee Office please visit their website.

RSS provides pre-employment services, job development and employment follow-up for refugees, asylees, Cuban and Haitian entrants, and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders for up to five years from the initial date of eligibility.

Vocational Education

African Services Coalition assists refugees in advancing in their careers and academics through our vocational education program. Our staff provides guidance and counseling on vocational education programs. Based on a refugee’s previous work and academic experience, English ability, and self-sufficiency, a client may be eligible for financial assistance to participate in any of the following programs:

  • Certified Nursing Assistant I (CNA)

  • Over the Road (OTR) Truck Driving School

  • Pharmacy Technician

  • Warehouse Technician

Specialized Training

Driver’s License Training: African Services Coalition strives to support self-sufficiency by recognizing the importance of personal transportation in the region. ASC contracts with a professional driving instructor who has years of experience teaching refugees driving skills and North Carolina laws. Refugees are eligible for driver’s training based on a number of factors, including but not limited to English skills, self-sufficiency, and the ability to provide liability insurance.

Vocational Education Counseling

Refugees come to the United States with a variety of skills and educational backgrounds. ASC supports clients by offering continuing education counseling and assistance in contacting local academic institutions.

Academic Transcript Evaluation Assistance

Some refugees dedicate years of their lives to obtaining advanced degrees in their home countries before being forced to flee. African Services Coalition offers refugees assistance in evaluating transcripts and diplomas from their country of origin in preparation for continuing with academia or pursuing a career in their field.