Coping 101: Identity of a Citizen

In the United States, until you become a citizen you're not guaranteed many of the equal and basic rights afforded to the majority of the population. And to become "undocumented" can be a nightmare, affecting and interfering with your physical health, mental health, family, occupation... virtually everything. Navigating these obstacles can seem impossible, unless you can find help. "In a nutshell, we are the 211 and the 911 for the West African Community... where if they need anything they come to us, and if we don't have it we make a concerted effort to go and find it." This kind of zeal, resilience and determination comes from a place of survival, and from a man who has found dignity in overcoming the countless challenges of an undocumented immigrant.

Originally from Gambia, Pa Ousman Joof's experience as an undocumented immigrant inspired him to establish Washington West African Center and provide the identity-affirming services he needed but couldn't find. The nonprofit now provides programs and services for more than 5000 community members annually. 

Presented by c89.5 in partnership with Seattle Children's, Coping 101 is an ongoing series led by students in Nathan Hale High School's Podcast Club that destigmatizes mental health from a teen's perspective, made possible with additional support from The Community Foundation of Snohomish County, The Washington State Department of Health, Hansmire Builders, and Compass Health - NW Washington's Behavioral Healthcare leader. No matter our age or background we all face challenges, and there are healthy ways to cope. Get started with more episodes, and find community-relevant resources online at c895.org/coping101

• more about WAWAC
• Pa's story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG--LnSIxNA
• This episode is made possible by The Community Foundation of Snohomish County: https://www.cf-sc.org/learn/who-we-are-what-we-do/