Today we'd like to introduce you to Arzu Nooroozi and her family!
Arzu, age 11, attended camp at The Tucson J for two weeks this summer, and quickly became known for her sunny disposition and friendly demeanor.
Arzu's family is originally from a suburb of Kabul, but have been seeking refuge around the world since the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan 35 years ago. They lived in Iran and in Turkey before seeking asylum in the United States in order to get better therapy and care for Arzu’s twin brother, who has a disability.
Sadly, the family experienced anti-refugee sentiment in Iran, and one of Arzu’s sisters has a scar from where she was hit by a thrown rock. In contrast, the family has found a warm and welcoming community in Tucson, including a strong bond with their next-door neighbors.
The neighbors, Tamara and Gil, have been helping the family overcome the language barrier, and also assist with transportation, as Tucson can be a difficult place to get around without a car—especially in the summer.
Arzu and Tamara’s 8 year old daughter, Mila, are very closer, so naturally the girls were hopeful that they could attend Camp J together this year. They did, thanks to a J scholarship and the generous donation of the remainder of cost made by a member.
When we asked Arzu what she thought of her experience at Camp J, she said, (in English, which she has been acquiring quickly) “It’s so cool! That’s all I can say!”
She goes on to say she loves the gym, the playground, the pool and most of all, the friends she made. If she can come back to Camp J next year, she wants to be here for Maccabiah Games again; she loves the team spirit, the cheers and the competition. When Arzu grows up she wants to be a flight attendant so she can use her language skills and continue to travel the world.
You can provide life changing experiences for children like Arzu by becoming a Friend of the J! Visit tucsonjcc.org/friends-of-the-j to make a tax deductible donation today.
