Joining The Fray - Episode 4. IRIS Refugee Run February 9th, 2025

Feb 3

The Immigrant Experience February 3rd, 2025 Volume 3. Episode 1

“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you

vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”

-Author Unknown

On Sunday February 9 th I will take part in the IRIS Run to Support Refugees for the 5 th year in a

row. Participation in an event like this one allows me to put my body where my heart is. This

means I will be able to take actionable steps towards supporting a cause that is near to my heart.

Inspiring and empowering immigrants has long been the mission of The Immigrant Experience.

The Refugee Run provides me with the opportunity to join thousands of others to meet this goal.

Participating in this run can not only raise funds to help support refugees and provide valuable

funding to this incredible organization whose mission is to help resettle refugees. Volunteering

ones time provides an opportunity for an individual to utilize their skills to assist in improving

communities that are important to them. Providing effort and energy to help those less fortunate

and/or in need can be extremely spiritually rewarding. Giving ones time can also reduce stress,

depression, and feelings of loneliness, improve self-esteem and happiness.

Most important, this is a FUN and HEALTHY way to give back. While a 5K run/walk may

seem daunting, its really only a brisk 1 hour walk (faster if you run- which I never do). It’s a

chance to see local runners from the team at Yale get the lead out, often setting a dizzying 15

minute best run time. Wherever you are, you can donate to support the cause and if you have the

chance, come to New Haven and let the spirit of this caring community warm your heart.