InterFaith Works

InterFaith Works, established in 1976, aims to foster understanding among people of different religions and racial backgrounds. The organization runs various programs to support the frail elderly, individuals in prisons, hospitals, and nursing homes, and addresses issues of hunger and housing. The Center for New Americans assists refugees and asylees from the Middle East, Asia, and Africa with services such as English classes, employment preparation, immigration services, medical case management, mental health services, cultural orientation, referrals, and community navigation. The El-Hindi Center for Dialogue & Action has been addressing racism and race relations for 25 years, organizing the longest-running dialogue to end racism in the nation. The Center for Healthy Aging promotes activity, socialization, and lifelong learning for older adults, offering programs like the Senior Companion Program, One to One Program, Aging Services for New Americans, Neighborhood Advisor, and Digital Inclusion for Older Adults. InterFaith Works also administers the Clergy Parking Cards process, allowing clergy to park free at Syracuse hospitals, nursing homes, and correctional facilities. The organization participates in the Onondaga County Emergency Rental Assistance Program to help tenants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Faith Partner Program includes 37 congregations and faith community partners throughout Central New York. InterFaith Works organizes the annual United We End Racism event, featuring Racial Justice Awards and a Duck Race Community Festival. The mission of InterFaith Works is to affirm the dignity of each person and faith tradition, build racial and religious equity, and create bridges of understanding. The Board of Directors is diverse, with 53% being of the global majority, and the staff includes 61% of the global majority and 36 former refugees or immigrants. The Round Table of Faith Leaders, representing 22 different faith traditions, guides interfaith efforts on various issues.