The Daily Illini: Champaign County research to reveal impact of immigration on economy

Some would say the current political climate in the United States is rather cold to waves of immigration from foreign countries. Champaign County on the other hand, is welcoming immigrants with open arms.

Throughout the next few years, collective efforts from the University YMCA, Research Park, the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation and the cities of Champaign and Urbana will carry research focused on local immigrants to the next level.

On Sept. 12, Champaign County was granted participation in the Gateways for Growth Challenge. Along with 24 other communities, Champaign-Urbana was recognized as a place that demonstrates an effort to shine a light on the positive influences brought by the immigrant population.

Associate Director of Research Park, Laura Weisskopf Bleill, described Champaign as a “place that celebrates differences.” Bleill stated that the research and data about the workforce in the community is essential to understanding the major contributions to our economy by immigrants.

Demographic data analysis, economic studies and in-depth interactions with local immigrants will form the foundation of the research.

Communities with high immigrant populations and supportive foundations, such as Champaign County, were granted resources and assistance from the New American Economy (NAE) and Welcoming America.

Read the full story from The Daily Illini: “Champaign County research to reveal impact of immigration on economy”