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​​​How You Can Help Refugees

Find Out More!

JFS SV has resettled 45 refugees throughout the pandemic.

We’re blessed to have caring volunteers who commit to helping newcomers in myriad ways.

​​​​​The JFS SV resettlement program supports refugees from around the world who are starting new lives here in the Bay Area, specifically in Santa Clara and Alameda Counties.  Volunteers work side-by-side with JFS SV staff to help our refugee clients in a variety of ways. ​

To volunteer or for more info, contact:

Robin Feinman-Marino
Volunteer Coordinator
robinf@jfssv.org
408-357-7467

ESL Tutoring
Experienced ESL teachers are needed to volunteer in our classroom, and who can commit a minimum of 1-2 hours per week for at least six months to work with beginning ESL students. 

Career Mentors
Our refugee clients have all levels of education and work experience in other countries and need guidance in finding their first U.S. job opportunities that fit with their backgrounds.  Volunteer career mentors are needed to help:

• Assist clients with filling out online job applications
• Coach clients on basic American work culture topics
  
• Provide information on job trends, entry-level opportunities, internships and professional associations;
  
• Educate clients about how to use job search apps, such as Indeed, Hired and LinkedIn
  
• Provide referrals and leads for good jobs
  
• Assist with resume writing 
  
• Practice job interviewing skills
  

Drivers
It takes time for newly arrived refugees to obtain California driver’s licenses.  Until they do, volunteer drivers are needed to help transport refugees to their medical, job interview and other appointments.  Drivers must have a clean driving record and a car in good working order.

Movers
JFS SV provides all essential household goods and furniture to refugees when they move into their first permanent housing in the U.S.  Volunteers are needed to help load furniture into U-Hauls, unload and move items into the new housing, and pick up and deliver donated items.  Volunteer movers and those willing to pick up/drop off donations are needed weekdays and weekends.

Host Collection Drives
Volunteers can host events to collect needed items for refugees, including toiletries, laundry detergent, Target gift cards and household items.

Donate!
Contribute to the Ruth Perkins Emergency Fund for Refugees.

To volunteer or for more info, contact:

Robin Feinman-Marino
Volunteer Coordinator
robinf@jfssv.org
408-357-7467

Refugee Support

Debbie and Hadar arrive at the airport to greet and pick up a newly arrived refugee family