Testimonials

Abdi has become a shining example of the success and self-sufficiency possible with refugee families coming to the Harrisburg area. His first week in Harrisburg, seemed like any other refugee’s; finding his bearings in their new home and neighborhood. It became quite apparent to him that public transit was his and his family’s access to a Harrisburg community. After his successful solo trip, Abdi started taking his entire family on bus trips to the grocery store or other shops.

It is Somali custom to try and help each other when possible. Abdi would eagerly ask when and where a new Somali family was arriving, and when they did arrive he would greet and accompany them on their first shopping experience. Following his successful bus adventures, he happily showed other families how to properly use public transit. If there was ever a need for interpretation, Abdi volunteered. In Mechanicsburg, he became acquainted with the local Imam, or religious leader, and built friendships spanning the two cities; and because of this, his family was able to follow their religion’s custom of Friday prayer.

As his oldest child enrolled and attended kindergarten. Abdi himself started work while his wife watched their younger children. Abdi accepted a position with AMES True Temper. Abdi understood work was the key to self-sufficiency, to accomplish his goals, and a good life for his family. To say that he performed his duties is an understatement; in fact, AMES True Temper was so impressed that they asked Catholic Charities if they knew anyone else like Abdi who they could employ.
Goals Abdi and his family was able to accomplish included: The family had a goal to buy a car; they accomplished just that. The family had a goal to move to Mechanicsburg; they accomplished just that. The family had a goal to have both parents working; they accomplished just that. Now the family has a goal to provide for their soon to be newest member of the family; and they will accomplish just that.

- M. Lukic