What was the initiative?

Ellis’s Fellowship initiative focused on supporting Syria-Antigonish Families Embrace (SAFE), a volunteer-based organization aiding Syrian refugees in Antigonish, Nova-Scotia. Initially aiming to create a comprehensive refugee sponsorship guide for rural communities, the project evolved into broader community support efforts. Key accomplishments included developing SAFE’s website, organizing public events, coordinating a Service-Learning Conversation Partners program, and assisting with fundraising. Despite challenges such as slow community timelines and communication barriers, the initiative strengthened refugee settlement efforts. The website emerged as the most significant achievement, enhancing SAFE’s outreach, legitimacy, and accessibility for volunteers and donors.

What was the community connection?

Ellis with the involvement with the Syrian refugee community began in the spring of 2016 when she was working in a refugee centre in Istanbul. After her return to Antigonish, she became involved with the StFX for SAFE society and looked for further opportunities to get involved.

How was it innovative?

The initiative was innovative in its community-centred, adaptable approach to refugee sponsorship and settlement in a small-town setting. Instead of imposing a fixed project, it evolved based on real-time community needs, prioritizing collaboration over individual leadership. The creation of a centralized digital hub for SAFE modernized communication and resource-sharing, enhancing accessibility for both local and external supporters. The Service-Learning Conversation Partners program uniquely integrated university students into settlement efforts, fostering cross-cultural connections. Additionally, by streamlining fundraising strategies and advocacy efforts, the initiative strengthened SAFE’s long-term sustainability, demonstrating how grassroots volunteer organizations can effectively support refugee integration.

What is Ellis doing now?

Ellis is currently working as a Community Outreach Worker with SchoolsPlus in the Halifax Regional Centre for Education. She works directly with youth in a high school as well as with their families providing support and navigating community services. Additionally, she sits on The Youth Project’s Board of Directors.