International Institute of Minnesota

The International Institute of Minnesota had its beginnings in 1919, under the auspices of the YWCA. During the 1920s, it offered English and citizenship classes, casework, services, and activities for St. Paul ethnic communities. The first executive director, Alice J. Sickels, came in 1931. Under her direction, the Institute expanded, and also began the St. Paul Festival of Nations. In 1938, the Institute broke from the YWCA, the result of expanding programs in casework and folk art, inclusion of men in programs, and increased service to non-Protestants. During the years prior to World War II, casework emphasized naturalization and resolution of immigrant legal problems. Both during and after World War II, casework services centered on resettlement of displaced persons. The Institute has continued, in various ways, to help the foreign born adjust to American life while retaining their cultural heritage.

From the description of International Institute of Minnesota records, 1920-1971. (University of Minnesota, Minneapolis). WorldCat record id: 62435213

From the guide to the International Institute of Minnesota records, 1920-1971, (University of Minnesota Libraries. Immigration History Research Center [ihrc])