Bilingual International Assistant Services
Calie Griffith is an experienced social work professional currently serving as a Practicum Clinician at Bilingual International Assistant Services, where trauma-informed assessments and therapy for immigrant and refugee children are conducted. Additionally, Calie holds the position of Integrated Behavioral Health Fellow for Children and Youth at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, emphasizing anti-racist and LGBTQ-affirming practices. Previous roles include serving as a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Admissions at Saint Louis University School of Social Work and gaining hands-on experience at the St. Louis County Children's Service Fund. Calie's early career experience encompasses positions as a Behavioral Health Technician and numerous internships focusing on child advocacy, social services, and community outreach, supported by a Master's in Social Work and dual Bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Criminology from Missouri State University.
Bilingual International Assistant Services
Bilingual International Assistant Services is a not-for-profit 501 (C) (3) organization established in May, 2002 by stateless refugee women. Bilingual International was founded as a response to the unmet needs of foreign-born seniors who had limited ability in the English language, were unable to navigate the intricate system of care, and often voiced fear over their future and livelihood. In 2005, the agency began serving US-born older adults, who, despite knowledge of English, lacked knowledge of the system of care and resources. Poverty stricken, isolated seniors who were also home bound and frail sought our services to help them improve their living situations, overcome anxieties, and increase their ability to maintain community living. In 2016, Bilingual International welcomed two long-time partner agencies: the Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma and the Places for People Faith Team. These recent additions have enhanced the agency’s service portfolio – especially to refugees and survivors of state-sanctioned torture. Free of negative bias, we advocate for and encourage legislation that promotes statewide accessible, appropriate health and social services for under-served individuals and populations. Through our services and proven track record, we not only live our mission – we go beyond expectations to help our elderly and foreign-born communities.