San Mateo County is a Certified Welcoming Place
The County of San Mateo has been recognized as a Certified Welcoming place by Welcoming America, becoming the first county in California to achieve the distinction for its commitment to immigrant inclusion and belonging.
The County achieved Welcoming America’s 4-star Certified Welcoming designation, which assesses local governments against the Welcoming Standard on their efforts to include and welcome immigrants in all areas of civic, social and economic life.
The Welcoming Standard sets criteria that local governments, community organizations, and community members can use to hold welcoming places accountable and spur innovation.
The effort to become certified was led by the County’s Office of Community Affairs with the participation of numerous County departments as well as local residents and organizations across a wide array of disciplines. The application included more than 1,000 pieces of evidence. Welcoming America then conducted an audit and an intensive three-day interview process.
The Welcoming Standard reflects what we know to be true—that our communities are stronger, safer, and more prosperous when immigrant neighbors are included, valued, and listened to.
Community partners, County staff, elected leaders, and Welcoming America staff gather to recognize this achievement.
