OCJCR – HIAS Welcome Circles

OCJCR is continuing to form Welcome Circles for Ukrainians through the Uniting for Ukraine program which launched on April 25, 2022.

Welcome Circles are teams of 5-8 volunteers who resettle refugee families by providing wrap-around, culturally sensitive support.

THE NEED: Each week we hear from new families and individuals who are here in Orange County and would like the support of a Welcome Circle. We need additional volunteers to meet the demand. Additionally, there are Ukrainians still in Ukraine and the EU who are seeking sponsors to come to southern California.

HIAS will provide support to Welcome Circle teams through a dedicated professional liaison who will provide resources on best practices in resettlement, peer-to-peer mentoring, and technical expertise.

OCJCR will help you form your Welcome Circle team from your synagogue, church, organization, or partner you with other individual community members.

Register your interest here to become a Welcome Circle volunteer. Or contact Jackie Menter at Jackie@OCJCR.org to request additional information about becoming part of a Welcome Circle.

Links to resources additional information:
How it Works
Ukrainian Welcome Circles FAQ

OCJCR’s Welcome Circle initiative is a partnership between OCJCR and HIAS with partial funding provided through Jewish Federation Orange County, Jewish Federations of North America, and the Shapiro Foundation.