our mission
JCOR is a collaboration among six congregations united on one mission: to help newly arrived refugees re-establish their independence, orient to American culture and develop a firm footing in their new home in the United States, and more specifically Washtenaw County. JCOR’s member congregations are Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan, Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation, Beth Israel Congregation, Jewish Cultural Society, Pardes Hannah and Temple Beth Emeth, with fiduciary support from the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor.
JCOR was established in response to a request from Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County to partner with them in settlement of newly arrived refugees.
what we do
WELCOME & MOVE-IN
JCOR volunteers greet the newcomers when they arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport and help them settle into temporary hotel accommodations while other JCOR volunteers search for stable housing and secure furnishings, and other household goods. And finally, the volunteers help the family move into their new home.
HEALTH CARE
In collaboration with Jewish Family Services, JCOR helps the newly arrived refugee family navigate the local medical system, including medical, dental and mental health care, as needed. JCOR volunteers frequently accompany the family to appointment
FINANCIAL SUPPORT & GUIDANCE
JCOR provides funds to supplement aid that is provided by federal and state governmentsand non-governmental organizations. JCOR volunteers help newly arrived refugees learn about U.S. financial systems, including opening bank accounts, managing finances, establishing a family budget, and related essentials.
education & Childcare
JCOR helps the family learn about the practices, procedures, and requirements of their public school district, and assists with the enrollment process and in establishing lines of communication with their students’ teachers. JCOR works collaboratively with JFS to help the family secure pre-school child care, as needed.
TRANSLATION & ESL ASSISTANCE
JCOR secures volunteer translators for essential communications needs, such as medical appointments, job interviews, discussions with their children’s teachers, and similar situations. JCOR volunteers are available to practice English language skills with the family if they are working on English as a Second Language (ESL).
transportation
JCOR volunteers provide transportation while the newly arrived refugee family becomes familiar with local public transit systems. From time-to-time, we continue to provide direct transportation when public transit is not viable.