Volunteer with us to support displaced Palestinian families in Portland, OR
We need volunteers like you!
Arriving in a new country means learning everything at once: a new language, new systems, new streets. Families need rides to appointments, help with paperwork, a hand moving furniture, and neighbors who know their names.
You don’t need any special background. Whether you have time, skills or compassion to share, you can help create a safe and supportive environment for families rebuilding their lives.
Volunteer
Opportunities
Transportation
Drive family members to doctors’ appointments and other necessary meetings. Experienced drivers can also give driving lessons to family members who want to learn, and we’re looking for leads on cars and other transportation resources.
Housing & Household Support
Help families find and settle into housing, and lend a hand with home maintenance, moving and furniture assembly.
Arabic/English Interpretation
Help families communicate at appointments, meetings and in everyday life.
Healthcare & Wellness Support
Help families access medical care and support their healing from trauma.
Legal Assistance & Navigation
Support families through ongoing legal needs and the immigration process, from organizing documents to going with them to meetings.
Education, Tutoring, & Youth Engagement
Help family members navigate English classes, college, communication and technology, and connect with young people through tutoring and activities.
Community Outreach & Mentorship
Plan community outings that help families meet people, find their way to the grocery store and learn more about Oregon.
Food Support
Help deliver the weekly food boxes donated by Feedem Freedom and help families learn about neighborhood food pantries and other food resources.
Fundraising
Help raise funds for housing, food, transportation and basic necessities for all of the families. You could plan events, write grants or spread the word.
“Through JSIR, I get to see real impact: families gaining access to the resources they need, finding stability, and getting back on their feet. That work brings me so much meaning.”
Brooke Keller, co-founder of JSIR
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for kind, reliable people who respect families’ privacy and dignity. Every role matters, whether you can help weekly or just once. We especially welcome:
Drivers with a valid license and insurance
Arabic speakers and interpreters
Teachers, tutors and people who work with youth
Legal, medical, mental health and social-service professionals
Event planners, fundraisers and grant writers
Anyone with a welcoming heart and a few spare hours
Fargo starting helping deliver food to the families. He now helps with peer support and provides an extra hand when things need to get done.
“I feel that I get to build incredible relationships. I always get to learn something new. The families have become my friends. I want to support people and see them succeed.”
Volunteer to help families
Or email us at jsir.oregon@gmail.com
Can’t volunteer right now? Donate to support housing, transportation and basic needs for the families.