January 2026: Beginning 2026 with Clarity and Commitment

The Fort Hayes jazz ensemble came to CRIS in December to share their incredible talent with staff and clients.

As we turn the calendar to a new year, I’ll be honest: recent weeks — and months — have made it hard to offer a simple “Happy New Year” message without it feeling half-hearted.

The world around us feels unsettled. Many of us are entering this new year carrying concern not only for the families we serve, but for the systems meant to support them — and for one another.

And yet, here we are.

How timely it has been to reflect on CRIS’ 30th anniversary as an organization over the last year. I’ve been reminded and encouraged time and time again that we are carrying forward a legacy established by our founders Jane and Khamsing, and continued by so many others who have shaped this organization over the past 30 years. Together — staff, volunteers, partners, donors, and community members — have helped build something resilient, responsive, and always rooted in welcome. That is something to be proud of.

The past year brought dizzying, often unwanted change. But it also reminded us of who we are. We adapted. We problem-solved. We stayed focused on what matters most: doing whatever we can, within our capacity, to meet the needs of refugees and immigrants in our community with dignity and care.

As we begin 2026, we know we cannot fully avoid the negativity or the noise that may surround this work. What we can do is support one another, stay grounded in our values, and refuse to let distraction pull us away from what we do best — extending welcome and offering practical support to people rebuilding their lives.

CRIS enters this new year with the same commitment we have always held: to stand with and serve refugees and immigrants.

Thank you for being part of this work. Together we will keep building a brighter future for all.