On Friday, November 8th our new Community Center for Refugee Integration is open! The Center represents the result of the previous work of JRS in Serbia and it sublimates the experiences and knowledge that we as an organization and individuals have acquired during our mission to help refugees, starting with the migrant crisis. In the past years, we have witnessed dynamic changes that forced us to constantly review and adapt to the situation.
JRS remains among those organizations that have continued to develop opportunities for the integration of refugees, especially those from the Middle East and Asia, and those from Ukraine, providing psychosocial support and a range of integration activities.
Why “Community Center for Refugee Integration”?
The name of our center reflects our commitment to creating an environment where refugees can access essential services and support. The “Community Center” symbolizes our vision of a welcoming space where refugees and the local community can come together, share experiences, and build relationships. A sense of belonging is crucial for successful integration, and therefore from today refugees and our fellow citizens in Belgrade have a place at their disposal.
The Center will serve not only as a meeting place but also as an additional social resource. In cooperation with colleagues from the non-governmental sector, as well as with state institutions, we will continue to improve support for refugees.
Our mission: Integration of refugees
The inclusion of the word “integration” in the name of the center clearly defines our mission to support refugees in adapting to their new environment. We will provide resources and programs that facilitate language acquisition, job training, and professional and cultural orientation. These programs are vital in helping refugees to adapt to their new circumstances.
The mention of “refugees” in the center’s name emphasizes our focus on this specific population, foregrounding their unique challenges and needs. We also contribute to raising awareness and promoting understanding in the wider community about the challenges refugees face.
In short, the name of our center captures the essence of our project: it is a purpose-built space that prioritizes community building and supports the integration of refugees into society.
Thank you to everyone who was with us at the opening, but also to those who are with us on this journey. We look forward to continued cooperation and further joint work on integration and support for refugees.
