About LORI
Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants (LORI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping refugees and immigrants achieve self-sufficiency by providing them access to critical services and support. At LORI, we promote diversity and inclusion, fight for humane immigration policies, and expand capacities around immigration legal services, policy advocacy, educational access, and community engagement.
Mission & Vision
Mission
To assist refugees and immigrants throughout their various stages of integration in Louisiana and beyond, enabling them to become self-reliant.
Vision
Seeking to promote the socio-economic well-being of all Refugees and Immigrants living in Louisiana, the United States, and the world at large.
Our Story
Every day, around the world, millions of lives are uprooted by conflict, persecution, climate disasters, or instability. By the end of 2024, over 123 million people were estimated to be forcibly displaced. This includes more than 42 million refugees who have fled their countries, about 73 million people displaced within their own countries, and millions seeking asylum.
In Louisiana, the ripple effects of global displacement are felt deeply in our churches, schools, neighborhoods, and families. At LORI, our work is closely tied to the resettlement that does happen. We support arrivals and long-standing immigrant families alike by providing resources, referrals, education, and advocacy to help them fully integrate and thrive.
Historically, Baton Rouge and the broader region have welcomed over 1,500 refugees — especially during earlier waves of resettlement in the state. As new crises arise, people from nations such as Afghanistan, Syria, Congo, Ukraine, and Venezuela are increasingly part of that story.
Today, immigrants and refugees continue to enrich Louisiana. With foreign-born residents making up nearly 5% of the population, newcomers bring energy, skills, perspectives, and culture. At LORI, we walk alongside immigrants and refugees from the moment they arrive — helping them navigate systems, secure legal status, overcome language barriers, access education, and become active members of their communities.
We believe true welcome means more than safety. It means dignity. It means opportunity. It means community. Each story of displacement, arrival, and integration adds strength to Louisiana.
Understanding Refugees & Asylum Seekers
Who is a Refugee?
A refugee is a person who is forced to leave his or her home country and cross national boundaries due to war or conflict. Particular reasons may include religious persecution, political preference, or natural disaster.
More than 60% of refugees are said to come from Syria, Afghanistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Somalia.
Who is an Asylum Seeker?
An asylum seeker is a refugee who is looking for protection in the host country or states. Based on legal provisions, authorities will assess the situation to prove if the refugee has well-founded evidence of fleeing his or her country.
More About Us
Meet Our Executive Director
Learn more about the leadership guiding LORI’s mission and vision.
Community Testimonies
“LORI made all the difference. Their support guided me from permanent residency to citizenship, and I’m deeply grateful for their leadership and assistance.”
– Ruth A., Citizenship Student & Client
“LORI’s ESL program changed my life. In just three months, I gained the confidence to speak, passed an interview, and secured a job. More than language, I found belonging and a foundation for my future.”
– Abdullah, ESL Class Student
“The summer enrichment camp was successful because in the end the children showed growth and expressed how it impacted their lives. This shows how the success of the summer camp is the foundation for future camps”
– Summer Enrichment Camp Volunteer
