As a philanthropic event, Buckeye Mela is supporting the Columbus-based non-profit Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS).

Founded in 1987, CRIS helps refugees and immigrants reach safety and stability, sustain self-sufficiency, and achieve successful integration into the Central Ohio Community.
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     Services at CRIS include:  
 
  •  Citizenship
  •  Employment
  •  Family Services
  •  Legal Services
  •  Match Grant Program
  •  Early Intervention     Program
  • Older Refugee/Immigrant  Support
  • Parenting Support
  • Health and Wellness
  • Resettlement
  • Victims of Crime Assistance
  • Youth Mentorship 
Programs within CRIS

​Community Connectors
Youth Mentorship Program

CRIS CC exists to support new American youth in Columbus emotionally, academically, and socially through mentorship and school programs. 

CC pairs mentors with new Americans ages 5-24 that have opted into the program and are within 12 school districts in Columbus.

Learn More Here






​16,000 refugees have been resettled in Columbus since 1987 from across 69 different countries!
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​ Financial donations are used to provide emergency rental assistance, ensure food security, maintain fair wages for CRIS staff, and support building operations and maintenance!

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