HIAS Chicago Honors Volunteer Appreciation Week

Dear HIAS Chicago Volunteer,

In honor of NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK, 2012 we'd like to share with you excerpts from President Obama's proclamation:

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

     Our Nation has been profoundly shaped by ordinary Americans who have volunteered their time and energy to overcome extraordinary challenges. From the American Revolution and the Seneca Falls Convention to the everyday acts of compassion and purpose that move millions to make change in their communities, our Nation has always been at its best when individuals have come together to realize a common vision. As we continue to pursue progress, service and social innovation will play an essential role in achieving our highest ambitions -- from a world-class education for every child to an economy built to last. During National Volunteer Week, we pay tribute to all who give of themselves to keep America strong, and we renew the spirit of service that has enriched our country for generations.

From HIAS Chicago and from all the refugees and immigrants we serve, who turn to us to give voice to their needs and support their proud efforts to become U.S. citizens and to participate more fully in the fabric of American life - we say: 

THANK YOU!!!!!!

With your volunteer support and participation we offer citizenship application workshops, citizenship preparation classes, tutoring and mock interviews as well as assistance to Russian speaking Holocaust survivors seeking reparations from the German government.

Because of you, we project that in Fiscal Year 2012 from July, 2011 - June 2012 HIAS Chicago and our volunteer corps will have assisted:

- nearly 2000 requests for service with citizenship application and educational supportive services.

- more than 900 requests for service with family based immigration services leading to family reunification in the U.S.

- nearly 200 requests for service from Holocaust survivors from Moscow and Leningrad to seek reparations with the German government through the Claims Conference.

President Obama continues:

Service is a lifelong pursuit that strengthens the civic and economic fabric of our Nation. With every hour and every act, our lives are made richer, our communities are drawn closer, and our country is forged stronger by the dedication and generous spirit of volunteers.

Once again, from all of us at HIAS Chicago -  THANK YOU!!!