Syrian Community Network

We're returning to Soldier Field again this year for another fundraiser with Chicago Fire FC! Support SCN by taking your friends and family out to what is sure to be an exciting match. Be sure to purchase tickets through our unique link (in comments). The first 50 tickets will have the chance to walk on Soldier Field before the kickoff! Learn more through the link!

Last week our new Director of Development and Communications had the opportunity to meet with Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth. Earlier this month we also had the chance to spread the word to our elder community about the services SCN has through the 48th ward's third annual older adults resource fair. We are looking forward to future partnerships with the 48th ward office and are excited about the possibility to make significant change in our community!

Virtual Immigration Workshop! Join the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights on Thursday June 4th for the next virtual workshop. Learn more about your immigration status, the overview of agency functions (USCIS, ICE, and the courts), and recent changes to TPS, asylum and DACA. Register from the link in comments.

Don't Forget! Join us tonight at Haymarket House for the screening of "Jerry & Me", a documentary film exploring the significance of Jerry Lewis films in the life of the filmmaker Mehrnaz Saeedvafa. Proceeds will go towards supporting SCN, so be sure to grab a friend and enjoy a night out with us!

Next week! Mark your calendars for this special film screening 🎬Door proceeds will benefit SCN and go towards fulfilling our mission. Be sure to RSVP to "Jerry & Me" and stick around after the film for a panel discussion led by our new Director of Development and Operations, Dr. Ali Tarokh. We'll see you there!

Volunteer of the Month: Kide! SCN relies on volunteers every single day. The impact these individuals have on our community is immense, and we’re proud to recognize Kide as this month’s Volunteer of the Month! Over the years, Kide has been a constant and uplifting presence in our community, especially through his dedication to our online homework room. His commitment to showing up week after week has made a lasting impact on the students who rely on that support.

Beyond academic help, Kide has also played a meaningful role in our youth mentorship program, where he has guided and supported multiple young adults. His patience, encouragement, and genuine care have helped mentees grow in confidence and navigate their goals.

Kide is also someone we can always count on to be present. Whether it’s events, programs, or last-minute needs, we can count on him. He consistently goes above and beyond, not just in what he does, but in how he shows up: with reliability, kindness, and a strong sense of community. Thank you, Kide, for everything you give. We’re so grateful to have you as part of our community!

SCN has been busy! We were recently recognized for our immigration walk-in program by the ATJ commission, an honor that we share with 25 other programs. also compiled a list of resources for free English classes, and gave SCN’s Education Program a shout out. Lastly, sought comment from our Executive Director, Maya Atassi, in relation to the potential end of TPS for Syrians. Find more information on their pages!

In the month of April hosted 3 food events with SCN, totaling over 400 meals distributed to the community! We are so thankful each time we are able to hand out a free, hot meal to a neighbor. Thank you for your continued partnership!

Take a look at snippets of our key findings based on data collected by the Urban Institute Well-Being Survey. Thank you to for providing this illuminating data. See the full findings on our website!