Immigrant advocacy group HIAS honors Cherry Hill Synagogue for its refugee relief work

Steve Lubetkin of SBN interviews Steve Janove, refugee and immigrant program coordinator from Congregation Kol Amy, Cherry Hill, NJ.Steve Lubetkin of SBN interviews Steve Janove, refugee and immigrant program coordinator from Congregation Kol Amy, Cherry Hill, NJ.

CHERRY HILL, NJ (SBN) — HIAS, the global Jewish nonprofit that protects refugees, has named Reform Congregation Kol Ami here as a recipient of one of its first Pathways Awards for the synagogue’s efforts to support refugees and immigrants from four different countries. Kol Ami was honored in the “Trailblazer” category.

“At an unparalleled moment in human history, with more than 110 million displaced people around the world, these congregations embody the core Jewish value of welcoming the stranger,” said Rabbi Sarah Bassin, HIAS’ Director of Clergy and Congregations. “In a difficult era for those seeking refuge and a better life in our country, it’s important that we celebrate the work that these Jewish communities are doing to change lives for the better.”

Watch an interview with Rabbi Bassin and Steve Janove, Congregation Kol Ami’s immigrant/refugee program coordinator.

The HIAS Pathways Awards were created to highlight the unique ways that Jewish communities nationwide have stepped up to support individuals impacted by immigration. Applicants were evaluated based on their recent work in education, volunteering, philanthropy, advocacy, ritual, and values.

There are three tiers of awardees:

  • Trailblazer Awards were given to the top congregations nationwide, recognized for leading unique projects, volunteer efforts, or emergency responses to crises.
  • Leadership Awards were bestowed upon congregations that have made significant commitments in at least four categories of engagement or have undertaken particularly extensive work in one category.
  • Partner Awards were granted to congregations that demonstrated commitment in at least two categories of engagement.

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