In this program, we will undertake an initiative known as a “Refugee Simulation,” based on a program that was provided to all Jewish Vocational Services (JVS) staff at a retreat in December, 2017.

RSVPs Requested: RSVP Here

We are facing a refugee crisis. Currently, over 65 million people have been forced to leave their homes, resulting in the highest level of displacement on record. This includes 25 million refugees, half of whom are under the age of 18. While the US has historically been one of the most important resettlement destinations, it has provided a very small answer to this enormous problem, and is only getting smaller.

Since the election of 2016, the willingness of our government to welcome those fleeing from persecution has been severely restricted resulting in millions of people living in camps and uncertain, temporary and often dangerous situations.

JVS has a proud 80-year history providing assistance to refugees and immigrants, and “welcoming the stranger” is central to our core social justice mission. The Jewish Services Committee, ably assisted by the JVS Refugee team and other volunteers will invite members of the synagogue and CJP community to participate in a “Refugee Simulation.”

Goals of the Refugee Simulation:

• Challenge participants to move outside their own experience and journey in the path of a refugee
• Allow participants to gain a deeper understanding of the experience, the choices and struggles involved in moving from a refugee camp to into the U.S. immigration system.
• Expand our individual and collective compassion; experience the weight of the journey and stimulate a desire for further educating ourselves and our communities