Department launches new effort to support Alaska's refugees and legal aliens

April 11, 2023
No. 23-6

JUNEAU, Alaska — The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD) is standing up the Office of Citizenship Assistance within the Commissioner's Office to assist Alaska's refugee and migrant communities. The office will be led by Deputy Commissioner Nelson San Juan who is returning to the Department for this role. He retired from state service last September.

AS 23.05.125 outlines the role of this office, to help coordinate training and employment services for legal aliens who are in Alaska.

Additionally, Deputy Commissioner San Juan will be working directly with Alaska employers to connect Alaskans to employment.

According to Catholic Social Services, more than 500 Ukrainian refugees immigrated to Alaska last year, and hundreds more are expected this year. Deputy Commissioner San Juan will be working on resettlement efforts, providing assistant for those seeking employment, training, and connections with Alaska employers.

"Nelson's expertise supporting employment opportunities for Alaskans and Alaska employers, especially in the seafood industry, will make him a perfect fit for this role," said Acting Commissioner Catherine Muñoz.

Alaskans in need of support can reach Deputy Commissioner San Juan in his office at (907) 957-5304

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