I have known Afro American Development Association since I moved to Moorhead in 2017. This organization assists New Americans to get employment, assist New Americans to access resources such as housing, education, and Healthcare. This organization advocates for New Americans to get equity and integration into the mainstream Americans in Minnesota. I have seen lots of New American folks who recently received help from this organization in regards to COVID-19. I have seen a lot of health education and COVID-19 materials created by this organization translated into different languages and shared on Social Media sites and with the local radios. This organization filled an important gap by stepping in and assisting New Americans to be successfully integrated into mainstream Americans and become self-reliant and self-efficient members of the American community.
I have been served by Afro- American Development Association in Moorhead, great people giving great services to New Americans in Fargo-Moorhead Area. When Pandemic hit and most New Americans felt lost and not knowing where/who to turn to, Afro-American Development Association was there for us. I am very thankful for their services.
I have had the opportunity to work with the members of AADA on several occasions. During these times we have discussed the role they play in the community and their desire to grow and continue providing services to assist new Americans and refugees.
Not only have I heard their mission, I have been fortunate enough to witness the extremely important role they have in the Moorhead schools and community. It is during these times that I have gained a true appreciation for the impact they have on the new Americans as they are seeking assistance in all areas.
When I have contacted them for help (weekly), they are always eager, informed and passionate. They have provided an unfounded level of support for the Moorhead School District and the English learning families.
They have earned and gained the respect and trust from the community that they so well deserve. Their members are kind, dedicated, driven and determined to make a difference. They have a firm grasp on the meaning of community and the importance of communication.
AADA strives to help bridge the gap between cultures. They mentor students with homework, they provide support within the schools, they teach adults how to speak English, they assist with city transportation, they offer training and teach the skills needed for job readiness. They are extremely interested in the success of those who come to them for guidance and direction.
AADA has been involved in several initiatives to bridge the gap between the general population and the incoming new migrants ( refugees and others). AADA knows how to mobilize and engage its stakeholders, and to use their resources effectively to reach out the maximum number of the clients who need additional guidance, help and support. They are committed to helping people achieve success and have steadily contributing towards achieving community integration necessary for any new immigrant and refugee choosing this community as their new home.
My experience with the AADA has been in partnering to create a New American Job Fair and collaborating on community events. I'm grateful this organization exists in our community to lend a voice to New Americans, but also to lend a perspective to those of us who were born here.
This is an organization which actively helps people, builds bridges in our community, stands up for what's right, shows up when you need them, and makes all the difference in navigating our wonderful differences.