The International Institute of Minnesota is a 501(c)(3) social service agency affiliated with the United Way and the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants. The Institute, founded in 1919 as a branch of the YWCA of St Paul, addressed unmet needs of immigrant women and their families. In 1938, the Institute became an independent agency. Since then the organization broadened programs and services to meet the contemporary needs of resettling refugees who now often arrive without established family support in the area. From basic services of food and shelter to educational classes and programs to ethnic cultural sharing, the Institute provides assistance for New Americans from the time of entry into Minnesota through full community integration. Our Mission: Helping New Americans achieve self-sufficiency and full membership in American Life.