Vol. 7, No. 3 March 2017

2017 Trivia Night Biggest Ever

Benefitting IISTL refugee services


The challenging rounds resulted in a three-way tie between Tables 26, 33 and 45 for first place. (Pictured here) Table 45, winners of the tie-breaker.

The International Institute's 2017 Trivia Night was a whopping success. The event raised more than $16,200 to benefit refugees and immigrants served by the Institute.

Table sales increased by 30% over last year, selling out more than three weeks in advance of the event. In all, more than 400 players and volunteers attended.

Internationally themed questions ranged from recognition of uncommon languages, to obscure facts about international beers, to questions featuring "walls." Loud cheers erupted when tables achieved perfect scores.

"Proceeds from Trivia Night provide valuable support for the clients and services of the Institute," said Anna Crosslin, Institute President & CEO. "It is so gratifying to spend the evening with hundreds of St. Louisans who have reached out to help our newcomers in this time of heightened anti-refugee and anti-Muslim sentiment."

Businesses Assist Refugees

Working together to build a more welcoming community


	Mai Lee, host of Love to Eat, Eat to Love benefit on Feb. 27 is one of our region's most popular restaurants. Here the Tran family (owner/operators) pose with Anna Crosslin, Institute President & CEO. Little known fact: IISTL served as sponsors for the Tran family on their arrival as Vietnamese refugees.

We are extremely grateful to numerous businesses, which have been raising funds in recent months through benefits and special events to help support our refugee resettlement program. Since late November, the International Institute has been the recipient of more than $15,000 in business and event-generated donations. This support is making a huge difference by helping to fill gaps resulting from reduced refugee resettlement funding.

A very special thanks to Lulu's, 4 Hands Brewing Company, Rooster, Tick Tock Tavern, Zee Bee Market, Starbucks, and Niche Group/Pastaria/Taste!/Brassiere. Also, Rise and Scream Concert (2720 Cherokee) as well as St. Patrick Concert at Heavy Anchor the featured local musicians in concert to benefit IISTL.

On Feb. 23, Dine Out for the International Institute was coordinated by the S Grand Business Association. The turnout was tremendous! Thanks to 10 of our favorite restaurants for participating, including Baida, Brasilia, Café Natasha, Gelateria del Leone, JuicePress/Everybody Yoga, King & I, Lulu's Local Eatery, Meskerem, Mokabe's, and The Vine.

Upcoming Events

Bosnian Heritage Night at the Blues

April 4, Daily; Scottrade Center

Blues vs Winnipeg Jets. Info, click here.

"Refugee Kids" Movie Screening

April 9 at 1- 3 pm; IISTL

Movie screening and panel discussion of the film. Info, click here.

A Conversation on the State of Immigration

April 11, 7:30 - 9 am; World Trade Center St. Louis

Join us to discuss the current climate surrounding immigration issues, laws and news from experts. Info, click here.

"Men in the Arena" Movie Screening