Friends of NIJC (immigrant support)
The Friends of NIJC started as part of a project named Safety NetWorks in 2017 after the federal election led to increased persecution of immigrants. In 2026 the Safety NetWorks project transitioned to focus on supporting clients of the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) Goshen office.
You can help support Goshen NIJC clients in 2 ways:
- Donate to the Friends of NIJC Fund. This fund provides assistance for things such asylum applications, expert witnesses, forensic medical exams, work permits, and short-term rent and utility bills. An Assembly committee reviews all requests. As of October 2026, over $105,000 has gone toward these critical needs. Instructions for donating are below.
- Volunteer to drive an NIJC client to an appointment. Immigration enforcement activities have made it very risky for immigrants to drive in our community. Volunteer drivers are provided with guidance about how to optimize immigrant safety in this current environment, and they can choose when they’re available. Let Pastor Karl Shelly know if you’re willing to be on the list of drivers.
If you have questions about this ministry, please contact Karl Shelly, Pastor of Mission, Peace & Justice at karlss@assemblymennonite.org.
Volunteer Signup Form for Safety Networks
Donations
- To make an online donation, click Donate, choose “Friends of NIJC” in the drop down box instead of “General Fund” when prompted.
Then select a payment method (Paypal, Venmo or Credit/Debit card) - You may also send a check by mail made out to Assembly Mennonite Church, with “Friends of NIJC” in the memo line. Our mailing address is: Assembly Mennonite Church, 727 New York St, Goshen, IN 46526