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Abstract: 

It is estimated that one in three children below the age of 18 will be a child of an immigrant 2020. With an ever-growing population of persons who were born outside the United States, the need to be understanding and sensitive to individual cultures is more important than ever. This paper uses experiences gained through the Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area (FSA), in Elgin, Illinois, to illustrate the unique challenges and opportunities of working with immigrant families. It discusses the challenges and barriers immigrants face and proposes models and concepts that are effective in family service practice with this population.

Keywords: Immigrant families, assimilation, mental health, cultural differences, cultural humility

Affiliations:  1: Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area; 2: Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area.