Representatives from JFS, Manager of Immigrant Services Maggie Kenney and Case Manager Amira Elamri, recently had the privilege of presenting to a unique group of students at Beaver Country Day School in Chestnut Hill. These students, who have chosen to study Arabic as an extracurricular activity, are part of an innovative program offered through The Hiatt Center.

The Hiatt Center isn’t just a physical space—it’s a mindset, a creative incubator for social impact. Rooted in fostering belonging and collaboration, the program empowers students to lead and effect meaningful change. Ms. Kenney and Ms. Elamri introduced the students to the impactful work of JFS, highlighting the essential services we provide to immigrants and refugees in our community.

During the presentation, Ms. Kenney and Ms. Elamri highlighted what it means to have refugee status, the services JFS provides to support them and in comparison to other resettlement agencies, and the challenges they face on their journey. They also explained the pathway to citizenship, offering students a deeper understanding of what it takes for refugees to build new lives in the United States.

The session sparked enthusiastic engagement and curiosity among the students. They asked insightful questions, demonstrating a genuine desire to understand the challenges and triumphs of the immigrant experience. Inspired by this exchange, the students are embarking on a new initiative: letter writing and video messaging with refugee families supported by JFS.

This initiative is about more than just language practice—though the students will hone their Arabic skills while refugees practice English, it’s about cultivating meaningful relationships, breaking down cultural barriers, and fostering mutual understanding. In the spring, we look forward to bringing these young people together for a group activity that will celebrate their shared learning and growing connection.

In a world that can often feel divided, it’s heartwarming to see cultures coming together to support one another. This collaboration underscores JFS’ commitment to the Jewish value of welcoming the stranger, regardless of religion or country of origin. Together, we are building bridges and creating a brighter, more inclusive future.

Click here to learn more about JFS’ commitment to Welcoming the Stranger and learn how you can get involved today.