Asset Development
WRDA’s Asset Development programs are designed to help refugee families move toward community integration through financial literacy and asset-building opportunities.
The IDA (Individual Development Account) Program matches participant savings for the purchase of assets and provides financial literacy training aimed at self-sufficiency. Participants save for a home purchase, educational/vocational expenses, microenterprise, or a vehicle. Singles can save $2,000, and families can save $4,000, with a 1:1 match rate.
To be eligible, you must be:
- A refugee or asylee who has lived in the US less than 3 years (or 3 years from date of asylum
- Currently employed and able to save (some income limits apply)
The Childcare Microenterprise Program assists female entrepreneurs with starting childcare businesses in their homes by providing child development training and startup funds.
To be eligible, you must be:
- A female refugee or asylee who is not yet a US citizen
- Interested in working with children
Ways to Work is an affordable car loan program designed to help working families access reliable transportation. World Relief partners with the Salvation Army Metropolitan Division by teaching financial literacy trainings and helping WRDA clients apply for loans. Even if families have low or no credit, they can receive a $6,000 loan (at 8% interest) to purchase a vehicle.
To be eligible, you must be:
- A parent of a child under 18
- Employed for at least 3 months
- Able to make monthly loan payments
Want to Learn More?
DuPage/Aurora Offices
Laurel Opal, Asset Development Coordinator
(630) 462-7566 x1058 | lopal@wr.org
Rebekah King, Asset Development Associate
(630) 462-7566 x1051 | rking@wr.org
We welcome client referrals and donations for the childcare program (furniture, books, toys).
