About SLO for HOME
Inspired by the heartbreaking plight of Afghans threatened by the Taliban after the U.S. withdrawal in 2021 , SLO for HOME was founded to provide safety and a new home for those at risk of reprisals . SLO for HOME has grown from an initial response to the Afghan crisis into an organization with an enduring commitment to support legal refugees from around the world fleeing war.
Today, SLO for HOME is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization that addresses the humanitarian needs of families uprooted by war. Located on California’s Central Coast, SLO for HOME offers more than housing; it provides personalized support to help families arriving in the U.S. legally to rebuild their lives after displacement.
SLO for HOME establishes sustainable self-sufficiency through a comprehensive approach that includes education, transportation, connections to employment opportunities, and more to support refugee families so they can thrive and integrate culturally, economically, and socially while making meaningful contributions to the Central Coast community.
We believe our communities are enriched when we uplift the vulnerable and embrace the contributions of our neighbors around the world. SLO for HOME is proud to stand alongside refugees from the dentist who served patients in a war zone, to the college student who risked everything for an education to the little girl free to chase her dreams. We are grateful for the compassion of our donors who make this endeavor possible.
Mission
Collaborate with legal refugees from war-torn countries to help them rebuild their lives and foster self-sufficiency and connection.
Vision
A compassionate, diverse, and inclusive Central Coast community where refugee families can rebuild and thrive.
Core Values
Honor Diversity and Dignity
Support refugees in building new lives while preserving their cultural heritages, guided by fundamental human rights, integrity, compassion, and empathy.
Cultivate Community Connections
Embody and inspire kindness, understanding, and selflessness towards others. By inspiring these qualities in ourselves and others, we strive to create a more inclusive, compassionate, and connected community for all.
Foster Cultural Awareness
Foster a safe, supportive environment where each refugee’s native culture is honored and respected as they resettle into the community.
Ensure Enduring Impacts
Build sustainable infrastructure that promotes SLO for HOME’s ongoing mission to serve resettled and future refugees with necessary resources while creating a fulfilling volunteer experience.
SLO for HOME is a Community Partner
We believe compassion starts right here at home on the Central Coast, which is why SLO for HOME welcomes volunteers, supporters, and collaborators from across our community to partner with us to help refugees and their families build vibrant lives marked by resilience and courage.
With support from SLO for HOME partners, we collaborate with refugees to build strong networks in the community that create lasting change and prosperity. Our compassionate, consistent, empathetic approach helps refugee families feel safe and builds trust as they transition into self-sufficiency.
Board of Directors
Our 501c3 nonprofit is led by a team of volunteers from our community who serve on the Board of Directors:
- Vance Rodgers, M.D. – President
- Katie Lichtig – Vice-President
- David Acosta – Treasurer
- Lauren Brown, Ph.D. – Secretary
- Susan Dressler, Ed.D – Director
- Julia Jones – Director
- Kathleen Minck – Director
- Torri Creamer – Director
Directors Emeriti
- Ermina Karim, V.P., Mortgage Lending
- Hillary Trout, CPA, iFixit
- Dr. Ahmad Nooristani, Founder of Noor Foundation
Of Counsel
- Neil Tardiff, Tardiff Law
About Us
SLO for HOME, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and contributions are tax-deductible for income, gift, and estate taxes.
Our EIN is 87-4021839