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Immigrant Connection Immigration Webinars
All webinars are led by Zach Szmara, Immigrant Connection Founder and Executive Director, and Carrie Afanador, Director of Partnerships.
AN IMMIGRATION POLICY UPDATE
Thur, Feb 5, 1pm (EST)​​​
Stay informed about recent changes and developments in U.S. immigration policy and practice. This webinar provides a high-level update on what’s new, what’s changing, and what churches and community leaders should be paying attention to in the current immigration landscape.​
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This replay will be available until Fri, Feb 20, 2026.
Citizenship 101
Thur, Feb 19, 1pm (EST)​​​
Curious about the path to U.S. citizenship? This session offers a practical overview of eligibility, the application process, common challenges, and how trusted guidance can help immigrants take the next step toward naturalization.​
What’s Happening in Minneapolis: Immigration Updates & Stories from the Ground
Thur, Feb 19, 8pm (EST)​​​
What does the current immigration landscape look like at the local level and how is it impacting real people and communities right now? Join Immigrant Connection for a live panel conversation, moderated by Founder and Executive Director, Zach Szmara, featuring voices from the ground in Minneapolis.
Together, they’ll explore what’s changing, what communities are experiencing, and how churches and organizations can respond with wisdom, compassion, and faithfulness in this moment.
Immigrant Connection 2026:
State of the Organization
Thur, Feb 26, 1pm (EST)​​​
We are marking 12 years of service, impact, and innovation this month, and we are excited to share with you about our growth, current initiatives, and future outlook.
Please join us for an in-depth overview of our growth and impact.
HOW TO SET UP AND RUN COMMUNITY
BASED CITIZENSHIP CLASSES
Thur, Mar 5, 1pm (EST)​​​
Citizenship classes are a powerful way churches and communities can support immigrant integration. Learn how to plan, launch, and sustain citizenship classes, from curriculum and volunteers to logistics and best practices for supporting students.​
When a Family Member or Friend Is Detained
Thur, Mar 19, 1pm (EST)​​
When someone is detained by immigration authorities, families and friends are often left confused and afraid. This webinar explains what detention means, what immediate steps to take, how to avoid common pitfalls, and how to connect with trusted legal help.
Good Friday & Easter
Through the Lens of a Foreigner
Thur, Apr 2, 1pm (EST)​​
This reflective webinar explores the Good Friday and Easter story through the experience of the foreigner, exile, and outsider. Together, we’ll consider how Scripture invites us to see displacement, suffering, hope, and resurrection in new and meaningful ways.
Understanding the Asylum Process
Thur, Apr 16, 1pm (EST)​​
Asylum is often misunderstood and highly complex. This webinar walks through the basics of the asylum process, including eligibility, timelines, and risks, helping participants better understand the realities faced by those seeking protection in the U.S.
AN IMMIGRATION POLICY UPDATE
Thursday, May 7, 1pm (EST)​​
A follow-up immigration update highlighting new policy shifts, enforcement trends, and practical implications for immigrants, churches, and service providers. Ideal for those seeking to stay informed and respond wisely in a changing environment.
Welcome Program Training and Peer-to-Peer Learning Cohort
Thursday, May 14, 1pm (EST)​​
Join Immigrant Connection’s Welcome Program Training and Peer-to-Peer Learning Cohort to learn how churches and organizations are effectively hosting citizenship, conversational English, and family resource programs in their communities. This interactive session introduces Immigrant Connection’s Welcome Programs while creating space to connect with peers who are already running classes. Participants will learn best practices, ask questions, and engage in practical conversation around attracting students, retaining volunteers, and running sustainable programs on a tight budget. The cohort is designed to encourage shared learning, honest dialogue, and mutual support.