Worcester Nonprofit Empowering Refugees, Immigrants Opens New Space

WORCESTER, MA — A Worcester nonprofit focused on refugee and immigrant cultures celebrated the opening of its new space.

RICEMA, short for Refugees & Immigrants Cultural Empowerment Massachusetts, hosted a ribbon-cutting celebration at its new location at 75 Webster St. The Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce said the event included a traditional lion dance and highlighted the organization's work in culture, education and community engagement.

The nonprofit describes itself as an arts and education center that preserves and celebrates refugee and immigrant cultures. Its programs are intended to help residents connect, develop skills and build a sense of belonging through arts, education and civic engagement, according to its website.

The organization hosts programs, including adult education, cultural activities, lion dance, Vietnamese language classes and a community garden. RICEMA also offers citizenship classes.

RICEMA recieved a massive grant from the Greater Worcester Community Foundation in June. The organization was awarded an $80,000 multi-year general operating support grant in the category "Facing Change: Sustainable Pathways Grants."

The foundation also awarded RICEMA $5,000 for a community arts and crafts series in May and $3,000 for a summer food and youth program in July, according to the foundation's grantee list.

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