My work with immigrants and refugees began as a member and leader of the Immigration Justice Task Force which is part of the First Parish Unitarian Universalist church in Concord, Massachusetts. Over the last several years I have been involved in immigration advocacy for state and national legislation including the Safe Communities Act, separating local authorities actions from state immigration enforcement; the Family Mobility Act, allowing those undocumented to obtain legal drivers licenses; and No Cost Calls, providing free communications to immigrants in detention. I’ve also been part of a team of volunteers helping to resettle three Afghan families who were evacuated from Kabul in the fall of 2021. We have provided these four adults and ten minor children with financial, medical, mental health, material, legal, employment, and educational support and they are well on the way to self-sufficiency. In addition, our team sponsors speakers and educational opportunities to raise awareness of the obstacles and dangers for those seeking refuge in the United States, including allies still in Afghanistan and others entering via the southern border. My educational and career background is in Leadership Development for nonprofit organizations, especially higher education institutions. My home is in Concord, Massachusetts from where I’m honored to be part of the Hamdeli team.

Email : info@actandhope.org