A saving grace for immigrants and refugees

Like all non-profits, the Birmingham Cross Cultural Connection (BCCC) began with a simple idea for change.

The organization began by first providing coaching and development for just a couple of clients. In December of 2023, they officially received a 501(c)3 designation and got right to work.

Katherine Woods, now the Executive Director at BCCC, got her start in non-profits by helping to support The Church at Brook House by overseeing their English (ESL) ministry. Their relocation to Hoover helped Katherine to see the need for long-term development in Birmingham.

“My first thought was that we would create the non-profit and hire someone to serve as the exectutive director. Through the process, the Lord really stirred my heart to wait on the ‘big’ promotion to a large non-profit and step into this local need instead.”
Katherine Woods, Executive Director, Birmingham Cross Cultural Connection

Katherine continues to help provide a vital lifeline to refugees by helping Birmingham understand the impact of this non-profit as well as serving partners. One affiliate that is a part of this community is World Relief, a program that recruits volunteers and mobilizes churches to welcome immigrants.

BCCC provides a welcoming hand to refugees

BCCC’s mission is centered on empowering refugees through education, resources and a welcoming community. They work to create a healthy environment where refugees feel endless support and are given opportunities to enrich their lives.

Here are some of the services offered:

Earn an English certification to showcase your knowledge by attending classes supporting your English proficiency journey.
Learn budgeting skills by taking a financial class to teach you how to budget effectively and plan for a secure retirement.
Sleep well knowing the BCCC is dedicated to providing every family with a comfortable bed.

“Helping our clients get driver’s licenses and cars quickly is very important to us. Other ways we assist is through helping them secure safe housing, providing workforce development training and job support, cultural orientation classes and English.

At the end of the day, education is key.”
Katherine Woods, Executive Director, Birmingham Cross Cultural Connection