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

This is a two-hour training 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. Trainings are hosted monthly, either in person at the CRIS office or remotely via Zoom. The July training is set for Wednesday, July 17th, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Register below and we will send you additional information!

Join CRIS Community Connectors (CC) on Saturday, July 13th, for their largest annual event: the Columbus Nations Cups. It’s a one-day soccer tournament held at Pathways Park (4475 Sunbury Rd | free parking) starting at 8:00 AM. All ages and skill levels are welcome…or just come out and be a fan! The Columbus Symphony will play a special halftime performance. All funds raised for CC go directly to serving students and allows the program to serve any New American youth regardless of eligibility or status. Any questions or interest in supporting can be emailed to Program Manager Jeremy Hollon.

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.

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!

An opportunity 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.

An opportunity to experience the 34-piece refugee-centered art exhibit the Columbus Crossing Borders Project, Worthington Presbyterian Church (773 North High Street) will host it on Saturday, June 1st, from 10 AM - 1 PM. Open to the public—stop in!

CRIS team members Kasee Cannon and Jeremy Hollon will be hosting Columbus City Schools Superintendent Dr. Angela Chapman and her Community Facilities Task Force Team at the CRIS office for a panel discussion on Thursday, May 30th, from 5:30-7:00 PM. The panel discussion will delve into the practical aspects of the relationship between education, facilities, and the community. Contact Kasee for further details.

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.

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!

On Saturday, July 29th, CRIS and our national affiliate Church World Service (CWS) are hosting a storytelling training for refugees and allies from 4-6 pm at the CRIS office (4645 Executive Drive). Led by former refugee and CWS Community Organizer Blaise Balazire, this training aims to help refugees and allies effectively tell their stories when advocating for refugee and immigrant rights. Refreshments will be provided, as well as certificates of completion for all in attendance. For more information or to RSVP, email Blaise using the button below.