News & Events

February Newsletter: We’re only in the second month of 2026, and already this year has been full of meaningful milestones. Community gathered around tables. Artisans stepped into large rooms with confidence. Hard work turned into celebration. Leadership voices reflected on why this work matters.

  • 3 min read

Yumiko came to the United States from Japan as a graduate student in the early 1980s. After facing struggles as an immigrant in a new country, she landed a position in the semiconductor industry and successfully climbed up the corporate ladder all the way to executive leadership, breaking glass ceilings along the way.

  • 5 min read

January Newsletter: As we step into a new year, we’re filled with gratitude for the support, partnership, and trust of the community, donors, and friends — all of whom have made RAI’s work possible and meaningful.

  • 3 min read

December Newsletter: As the year comes to a close, we’re filled with gratitude for the community that makes this work possible. December is a time for reflection, generosity, and meaningful connection. We thank you and the community for being part of this journey with us.

  • 2 min read

It’s the perfect time to pick up beautifully handcrafted items while supporting a powerful cause.

  • 1 min read
As RAI continues expanding our artisan team, we would like to introduce Deya, one of RAI's newest artisans...
  • 1 min read
Refugee Artisan Initiative is now offering free mending services to the public. This exciting new project aims to reduce landfill waste, pass on vital skills, and create equitable income for artisans.
  • 1 min read
Since we live in the city that founded Starbucks, it’s only appropriate that RAI artisans have routinely been upcycling Starbucks’ burlap by the hundreds of pounds and turning them into a signature burlap market tote bagssmall pouches, and wine totes
  • 2 min read
This spring, the Asia-Pacific trade forum (APEC) hired RAI to embody its theme “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All” by producing messenger bags for the forum’s Seattle summit in August. It was clear from the beginning that this project would bring both new challenges and new opportunities! 
  • 2 min read

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