Community Events

Saturday, May 4, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Save the date! Handmade crafts, music, and food from around the world will take center stage at the Second Annual Culture & Artisans’ Fair on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, between 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (2151 Dorset Road, Upper Arlington).

This family-friendly event is brought to you by CRIS, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, and the City of Upper Arlington—rain or shine!

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

The Good Neighbor training is the first step to becoming a volunteer; it’s also a great way just to learn more about refugees.

This is a two-hour class led by CRIS staff that teaches the basic contexts of refugees in the United States, raises awareness of refugees’ valuable contributions, and provides a guide to building relationships with our new American neighbors. The next Good Neighbor Training will take place on Tuesday, May 7th, from 5:30-7:30 PM, both virtually (via Zoom) and in person at the CRIS Office (4645 Executive Drive). Contact Flannery Rokeby-Jackson for additional information.

Saturday, June 22, 2024 | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

This will be a family-friendly celebration of the strength, beauty, and cultures of the refugees and immigrants in our community, featuring global arts and crafts activities for families, as well as music, food, and dance from around the world. Stop by the CRIS Office (4645 Executive Drive) on Saturday, June 22nd, between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to join in the fun!

Saturday, June 22, 2024 | 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

CRIS is hosting an evening of celebration for the Columbus Crossing Borders Project. This will be the last time all 34 refugee-centered original pieces will be on display together. Currently at auction online, this evening celebration will include the auction finale. All proceeds from the auction will directly support the work and mission of CRIS. Make plans to join us at the CRIS Office (4645 Executive Drive) for this special one-time celebration.

Friday, May 10, 2024 - Friday, May 24, 2024 | Hours Vary

One of two opportunities to experience the 34-piece refugee-centered art exhibit the Columbus Crossing Borders Project, the Miller Gallery at Otterbein University (33 Collegeview Road, Westerville, OH 43081) will host it May 10th-24th as follows:

Open to the public on business days 9 AM - 4 PM and weekends 1 PM - 4 PM (closed for Mother’s Day)

View the collection anytime the gallery is open between May 10th-24th, and make plans to join us on the final evening, Friday, May 24th, between 6-8 PM for a reception featuring artists from Columbus Crossing Borders.

Thursday, June 6, 2024 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The second of two opportunities to experience the 34-piece refugee-centered art exhibit the Columbus Crossing Borders Project, Church of the Resurrection (6300 E Dublin Granville Rd, New Albany, OH 43054) will host it on Thursday, June 6th, from 6-9 PM during an evening reception featuring special guest speakers connected to the exhibit.

Saturday, October 5, 2024 | 8:00 AM - 12 NOON

CRIS’ largest annual gathering is a friendly 5K walk/run and kids fun run, now located in beautiful downtown Genoa Park (behind COSI). With three running/walking events, a live DJ, delicious food from around the world, and community resources on display, this family-friendly event truly offers something for everyone.