International Institute of St. Louis

Despite federal budget cutbacks, the multicultural event returns Aug. 23-24 to Tower Grove Park.

Nonprofits like the International Institute are relying on funding from the Regional Arts Commission as federal cuts and declining corporate support hit their bottom lines.

The popular, multicultural festival will return to Tower Grove Park in St. Louis on Aug. 23-24.

Families in the St. Louis region needing nutritious meals can now choose from a variety of food items at the International Institute’s first food pantry. The partnership with Operation Food Search will help feed 40 families weekly.

Resettlement agencies and immigrant and refugee service providers in the St. Louis region have begun to scale back services for immigrants and refugees due to Trump’s executive order to pause federal funding.

The International Institute of St. Louis furloughed staff and paused preparations for its popular annual Festival of Nations because of uncertainty over federal funding under the Trump administration.

About 250 community members gathered in Chesterfield on Sunday to celebrate the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Arrey Obenson, former CEO and president of the International Institute of St. Louis, resigned because of misaligned visions and goals. He said the institute’s position as a service provider for immigrants and refugees should be widened.

Arrey Obenson no longer leads the International Institute of St. Louis. The institute’s board of directors is searching for a new leader.

An international fashion show will join the offerings at this weekend’s Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park. Five designers will show work including contemporary designs and clothing that reflects traditional garb found in other countries.