Championing Stories and Addressing Inequality: FirstGen Grants Support and Uplift Immigrant Women
To mark International Women’s Day 2023, FirstGen is honored to announce the recipients of its inaugural $25,000 FirstGen Spark Grant. The Foundation for California Community Colleges and the Society of Refugee Healthcare Providers both advocate for women who identify as refugees, immigrants, and migrants by providing access to services they are often denied—the resources, support, and care that give these women the greatest chance to thrive in their new home.
Inner City Law Center Bestows Humanitarian Award Upon Alya and Dr. Gary K. Michelson
The social justice organization recognized the Michelsons’ support of unhoused people with pets, incarcerated individuals, and immigrants.
Alya Michelson’s FirstGen Program Announces New Spark Grants Program
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Michelson Philanthropies program FirstGen announces the launch of a new Spark Grants program to support immigrant women.
FirstGen and Upwardly Global’s Career Skills Program for Immigrant Women Exceeds Expectations
Enrollment in Upwardly Global’s Career Skills Program for immigrant women who now call Los Angeles home, launched last year with support from Alya Michelson’s FirstGen Initiative, nearly tripled above the initial target for the program, which is aimed at moving immigrant women from unemployment or low-skilled jobs to full employment.
A Mother’s Prayer for Her Slavic Family
The heart of Russia is not inside the Kremlin, writes Alya Michelson. Many Russians have roots in both Russia and Ukraine, speak both languages and embrace the deep cultural heritage of both countries.