There are number of non-profit organization that welcome newcomers to our beautiful city Greenville, SC. People are moving here from all over the world, not only from Florida, California or New York City, but also from from Canada, France, Germany and Japan, from Central and South America and Africa. People are coming for jobs, to retire or because they are attracted by affordability and natural beauty of the Upstate South Carolina.
Those moving from other countries face a myriad of new challenges, they might have to overcome a language barrier, and very often at least a mild cultural shock. The newcomers have to get their South Carolina Driver License, rent or buy a house, find a good school for their children, figure out how to spend their leisure time and take the full advantage of all the best that Upstate lifestyle can offer, and last but not least find their favorite ethnic food. However, what they are often missing the most, and what they need the most are friends, new friends and sense of belonging to new community.
One of the places that can offer unqualified help and assistance for newcomers from abroad is a non-profit organization: The International Center of the Upstate (ICU). I am myself a proud member of this fine, community based organization.
According to ICU web page InternationalUpstate.org
"The International Center of the Upstate (ICU) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cross-cultural understanding for individuals, businesses and the community in the Upstate of South Carolina. Since its inception in 1999, the ICU has helped many newcomers settle into the Upstate of South Carolina and to enjoy other cultures. More than 70 countries on six continents have been represented in the ICU since 1999. This rich cultural mix among its members makes the ICU a great organization for meeting new people from all around the world in a warm, informal atmosphere."
Next time you meet an international newcomer looking for a friendly cheer-up and some help with moving to and settling down in Greenville, you can surely mention International Center of Upstate. The people there not only offer help with everyday nuisances a newcomer is facing but also friendship. Call ICU and talk with one the members or just call me for more information and little chat.
Some of the resources and guide for people moving and relocating to Greenville can be found on my webpage DorotaMatys.com, you are more than welcome to drop by!
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