MARCH 16, 2025

Javid Siddiqi, Director of Resettlement and Refugee Services at JFS, recently visited King School to speak with Lindsay Rossler’s history class about his life in Afghanistan and his journey to the United States. Siddiqi shared his personal story, shedding light on the immense challenges refugees face and the critical role organizations like JFS play in helping them rebuild their lives. The students had the opportunity to ask insightful questions, further enhancing their understanding of the refugee experience.

Siddiqi poignantly explained the heart-wrenching experience of displacement: “For a refugee, nothing is more painful than losing your country, your friends, and the memories tied to your life. Yet, they choose to flee—seeking refuge not only to survive, but to reclaim their rights and their future.” His words resonated deeply with the students, offering them a profound understanding of the refugee experience and the resilience required to start anew in a foreign country.

Thank you, Javid, and thank you, King School, for making this meaningful exchange possible.

JFS staff members Yveline Dorlean and Victoria Robledo recently attended an event at Stamford High School. While primarily intended to assist families with the kindergarten registration process, Yveline and Victoria set up a JFS table and engaged with the community. They were excited to meet new families and connect with other local service providers. This event provided a valuable chance for JFS to expand its outreach, foster connections, and ensure families are aware of the vital resources available to them. The team looks forward to future community-building efforts.

We are grateful to Governor Lamont for signing Bill 7066, bringing emergency aid to 20 nonprofits across Connecticut, serving immigrants and other marginalized communities.

We thank him for recognizing the tragic impact of federal executive orders on our vulnerable clients and the not-for-profits who serve them.

In honor of Social Work Month, we are proud to spotlight Benson Casimir, a dedicated psychotherapist at JFS. Inspired by the support his family received when they first arrived in the U.S., Benson has made it his mission to help others overcome challenges and create lasting change. A powerful moment in his career came when he visited Haiti, witnessing firsthand the impact of poverty and mental health struggles, which deepened his commitment to social work.

Benson believes in taking things “one day at a time, one step at a time, one minute at a time, one second at a time,” and he brings this mindset to his work, empowering clients to move forward and find strength within themselves. To read more about Benson’s journey and insights, click here.

We’ll be highlighting more of our dedicated social workers in future issues, so be sure to check back for additional spotlights!

We are looking for passionate volunteers to help support our programs and make a difference in the community. If you’re interested in giving back, email Beth Jabick, Director of Volunteer Services.

THANK YOU FOR GENEROUSLY SUPPORTING JFS OF GREENWICH!

Jewish Family Services of Greenwich

67 Holly Hill Lane | Greenwich, CT 06830

203-622-1881 | info@jfsgreenwich.org | www.jfsgreenwich.org