Stories

Celebrating a new year Talking about Nawroz puts a smile on Ahmadi’s face. Nawroz is the Afghanistan new year. It falls on March 21st, which also marks the first day of spring. On Nawroz, families wake up early, put on new clothes, and begin the day with prayer.  “It’s a day to thank God for…

In honor of International Women’s Day, some of our staff have shared their stories about how they’re breaking gender bias to create an equal world. Close to the heart Lupe Nache Vital never misses a chance to honor her Mexican roots. With a vivid portrait of the Virgin of Guadalupe to watch over her and…

When Grace Fitzpatrick thinks about the time she’s spent working at World Relief Quad Cities, she feels proud of the representation of women in the office.     “World Relief is unique in which the the director of the office is a woman, the volunteers here are mostly women”, Fitzpatrick says, “it’s been relieving to not…

Random acts of kindness can completely transform someone’s day. They inspire us to go out into the world, give, and become part of something greater than ourselves. Here’s how Riley makes a difference. A career in giving back When not going to concerts or hanging out with her two cats and pet snake, Riley Vaughan…

Lauren Peterson never expected to bring in two Afghan refugee families into her East Moline home, but she was more than ready to heed the call when the moment arose. “I was listening to NPR and heard about the evacuations occurring, and I soon started looking up places where I could take up these families.…

For anyone transitioning to life in America, it can be quite the culture shock compared to living in your previous country of residence. But for No Niang, relocating to the United States from Myanmar was something that didn’t strike her as shocking compared to her parents or siblings. “Refugees are very cultural,” Niang explains, “They…

Out in the Community De’Andre’s passion is making a difference. As the Street Outreach Coordinator for Christian Care Men’s Shelter covering Rock Island, Henry, and Mercer counties, his personality and understanding of people led him to the community. Most of his time is spent contacting homeless individuals in need of resources. He helps secure housing…

Refugees often rely on produce that is exclusive to their heritage and difficult to find in conventional U.S. grocery stores. Each month, we distribute Burmese and Congolese foods that are familiar and healthy – now, we’re officially adding Afghan foods to the mix. Here’s how one volunteer is making an impact. Life After Graduation A…