International Institute of Boston

One of fifty such organizations throughout the United States, the International Institute of Boston was part of a national movement within the YWCA to serve the urban immigrant community. The Boston International Institute had its inception in 1923, and opened in 1924. It was described as a "Service Bureau for Foreign-Speaking People". Through case, group, and community work the staff sought to provide information, education, personal service, and assembly to its clients.

The Beacon, the monthly newsletter, was begun in 1933, and also several annual social events. In addition, separation, community, and nationalities studies were done. During this time also, the Institute severed its ties with the YWCA in 1935, and became autonomous.

It subsequently became a member of the Boston Council of Social Agencies, the Greater Boston Community Fund, and the National Institute for Immigrant Welfare (the umbrella organization for independent International Institutes--later the American Federation of International Institutes). In 1959 merged with the American Council for Nationalities Service.

During the late 1940s, the Institute struggled to maintain its services, and provided aid to war victims and recreational facilities to enlisted men. In the 1950s, a new executive secretary, Pauline Gardescu, assumed responsibility for the Institute. The Institute continued its work with both immigrant and international communities in Boston.

From the guide to the International Institute of Boston Records, 1924-1955, (University of Minnesota Libraries. Immigration History Research Center [ihrc])