Our commitment to deliver the highest-quality programming and return dignity to Syrian refugee communities means our programs must constantly evolve. We ask, listen, and adjust our approach to meet the true needs of these individuals, rather than make our own assumptions. In this way, they regain the decision-making power lost in their displacement — a crucial component of empowerment.
Our former Sponsor a Syrian Refugee Family program is now Karam Families. With this change, individual donors no longer directly sponsor a family. Instead, supporters of this program will now support the initiative as a whole rather than choosing a specific family. Families within the program will continue to receive the same level of support and resources they always have. This is not to distance our supporters from our communities, but to remain true to our values and committed to the cause, explained further below.
There is a fine line between aid and empowerment, one that direct sponsorship blurs. Syrians are filled with potential, skill, experience, character, and nuance. Through one of our core values of authenticity, we strive to convey this message to our audiences. Many organizations in the humanitarian space instead favor messaging that highlights neediness and urgency in a victimizing way. But we see the power of refugee communities. They have the potential to be future change-makers who will fix global crises and solve social issues. This can only happen if they have dignity—if they believe in their own power. Ending direct sponsorship helps to separate them from the idea that they are anything less than powerful individuals, brimming with potential.
This shift also allows our team more time to deliver the highest quality of programming. As the crisis continues—the Syrian refugee population has surpassed six million—we must prioritize our limited staff capacity to increase the reach and depth of the program.
One thing we did not want to change was how we intentionally connect our supporters with refugee communities. We’ve developed a wonderful opportunity to bring you closer to Karam’s work than ever and delivering it all straight to your inbox. In addition to following our regular communications, we invite you to join The Journey — our monthly giving community — to receive exclusive personal accounts, stories, photos, and much more from the future Leaders themselves. You will receive all the inspiring and beautiful community-driven content that you expect from Karam.
Our intention is always to bring you closer to the work and the people that you support. We want you to see the impact that your generosity is making every day. Karam Families honors this intention and takes the work further than ever. We hope you’ll join us as we challenge ourselves to be more brave, authentic, and generous. It matters.