Adjusting to a new culture can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially for refugees and immigrants. For many, organizations like the New American Association of Massachusetts (NAAM) serve as lifelines during this transition. Founded in 1991 as the Russian Community Association of Massachusetts by Soviet Union refugees, NAAM was established to assist others fleeing religious and political persecution. Its mission is to help newly arrived refugees and immigrants integrate into American society, promote economic stability, build bridges with the larger community, and maintain their cultural identities.  

While a significant portion of NAAM's current clients comes from the Afghan, Haitian, and Ukrainian communities in Lowell and Lynn, NAAM equally supports individuals from all backgrounds who are eligible for their services and in need of assistance. Lynn, a city of about 100,000 residents, has long been a hub for refugee resettlement, with 35% of its population being foreign-born. Notably, 51% of residents speak a language other than English at home, and 69% of Kindergarteners were identified as multilingual learners in the 2022-2023 school year. Similarly, Lowell, with a population of approximately 113,000, reflects this diversity, with 28% of its residents being foreign-born and 40% speaking a language other than English at home.  

As a United Way New Way Forward partner, NAAM’s work aligns with our commitment to fostering economic prosperity across races and ethnicities while uplifting historically marginalized communities. “United Way has been a strategic partner in driving systemic change by supporting our programs, providing critical resources, and connecting us with a broader network of opportunities. Together, we are working to ensure that refugees and immigrants not only find immediate support but are also empowered to build long-term stability and success in their new communities,” said Natasha Soolkin, Executive Director of NAAM.  

Natasha Soolkin, Executive Director of NAAM, is an emigre from the former Soviet Union who arrived in the U.S. in 1990. For the past 25 years, she has actively supported the immigrant and refugee community.

NAAM envisions newly arrived refugees and immigrant clients as secure, happy, and healthy in their new homes, capable of independently navigating community resources through holistic, multigenerational services, including: 

These services, which reduce barriers and create opportunities for refugees, have made NAAM a cornerstone for countless immigrants, providing essential support to help them acclimate to life in the U.S. The journeys of Harena Gebreyesus and Helen (a pseudonym to protect her identity) illustrate this impact. 

Harena Gebreyesus, an Urgent Care Physician Associate who graduated from MGH Institute of Health Professions and a former refugee from Ethiopia, has been involved with NAAM since her arrival in 2009. Now a board member, she highlights NAAM's significant impact on newcomers. Harena and her siblings benefited from youth programs, while her parents received ESL classes, employment services, and case management, with NAAM supporting the family on their path to citizenship.  

Harena Gebreyesus, an Urgent Care Physician Associate and former Ethiopian refugee, has been with NAAM since 2009. Now a board member, Harena emphasizes the organization's vital role for newcomers.

Harena's story began in 2009 when she arrived in the U.S. as a young teenager, stepping into a world that felt foreign and overwhelming. She recalls the challenges of adapting to a new culture: "When I first came to the country, I felt lost. The simple concept of hugs was so strange to me, and I often wondered why people smiled at me as I walked down the street." NAAM served as a sanctuary where she could connect with others facing similar challenges, helping her navigate the complexities of adapting to the American life.  

"NAAM is an organization that helps refugees and immigrants acclimate, and that's exactly what they did for me," said Gebreyesus. NAAM’s after-school program provided Harena with a space where she could ask questions without fear of judgment, make friends, and improve her English. “NAAM made me feel comfortable to be in my own skin. I learned to be myself and not be afraid to speak English, especially in the beginning,” explained Gebreyesus. "My best friends at that time were from Nepal and Iraq—where else do you find such diversity in one place?" These connections enriched her high school years, transforming what could have been an isolating experience into a vibrant, supportive community. 

As Harena gained confidence, she transitioned from being a participant in NAAM's programs to tutoring in the afterschool and summer programs during her sophomore year of high school. "I loved knowing that I could give back after receiving so much help," said Gebreyesus. This shift allowed her to engage younger students and keep them off the streets during summer breaks, particularly in an area facing challenges such as gang involvement and violence. "Being involved in the summer programs was crucial. It kept kids out of trouble and gave them something positive to focus on," said Gebreyesus. This cycle of support—receiving help and then providing it—exemplifies NAAM’s mission to cultivate community among newcomers.   

NAAM helped Harena embrace leadership, and her experience continued to grow as she took on roles like supervising teen staff and serving as a teacher’s assistant. She later went to college to study nutrition, and soon after, pursued a master’s degree in physician associate studies. Harena graduated about a year ago and now works as a PA in urgent care. 

For Harena, NAAM is a transformative force in her life. "I would not be who I am today without NAAM," said Gebreyesus, “NAAM is more than just a place for support; it’s a community that nurtures growth and encourages individuals to thrive," This sentiment resonates with many who have found refuge and strength within its programs. 

Harena’s journey with NAAM has evolved into board membership, where she contributes to the organization that has given her so much. "When I became a board member, it was mind-blowing to see how much NAAM is involved in the community and how much its hands extend," said Gebreyesus.  

NAAM -Immigrant's day at MA State House 2024.

In her role, Harena advocates for the values she gained through NAAM, fostering an inclusive environment. "Being a board member is an honor that allows me to give back to the community that shaped me. It’s empowering to contribute to an organization that not only supports individuals but also drives change in the lives of so many families. I feel a deep responsibility to ensure that others have the same opportunities I did," Gebreyesus added. Recently, Harena accepted the presidency of the board, “I'm trying to connect the board and the organization to a much more intimate level. Sometimes board members aren’t aware of the intricacies of the organization, so I aim to bridge that gap,” said Gebreyesus. 

Harena’s experiences at NAAM remain a cornerstone of her identity, creating ripples of change as individuals like her make meaningful contributions to society. Sharing stories like Harena's highlights the vital role that NAAM plays in shaping the future of newcomers in our communities. 

Helen arrived in the United States on September 15 of last year, seeking a fresh start for her and her family after fleeing from Cameroon. As a newcomer, Helen faced numerous challenges, from adjusting to a new culture to securing basic needs for her family. Despite these difficulties, she found hope and emotional support in NAAM, an organization that has since become a crucial part of her family's life. “When I first arrived, I felt lost and alone. But NAAM showed me that we are not alone. They treated us like family, helping us with everything we needed. Their support has been a light in our darkest times,” said Helen. 

When Helen and her family arrived, they lived in a small house with no furniture or appliances. Initially skeptical of NAAM’s outreach, Helen felt threatened by anyone approaching due to her war-torn background. However, her doubts began to fade when Darlene, a NAAM representative, explained that they were there to help. Her concerns eased further when her children showed her the iPads they received for weekly Zoom meetings with other kids. The center also organized yoga and sports activities to keep the children active and engaged, leaving Helen feeling "overwhelmed with happiness." 

A few weeks after her arrival, Helen and several other families were invited to a gathering where NAAM staff encouraged them not to feel discouraged. "They told us that we are not alone and that they are like family here. They provided us with furniture, kitchen utensils, winter clothes and other essentials. It was such a relief," said Helen.  

Emilie Wilk, Youth Program Coordinator at NAAM.

This sense of community was crucial for Helen, as NAAM offered more than just material support. They enrolled her in yoga sessions and group Zoom meetings where women could share their worries, learn stress management techniques, and build a network of support. "They taught us breathing exercises, how to handle problems without overreacting. These meetings have been so valuable, especially as someone adjusting to a new life," said Helen.  

As Helen’s mental health improved through these resources, NAAM also organized summer camps for her children, which became a vital part of their adaptation. "They had never experienced anything like this back home. They went on excursions, participated in activities, and got to know America better. They even went on a boat for the first time!" Helen said, her voice filled with joy. 

As Helen began to settle in, NAAM’s support continued to grow. When she expressed a desire to further her education and pursue a career, the center covered her tuition to attend the Royal Health Institute. With their financial assistance, she completed her CNA training and soon faced the challenge of learning to drive—another necessity for her new life in America. Once again, NAAM stepped in, paying for her driving lessons. "I didn’t have to pay a single dime. They arranged everything," Helen said gratefully.  

NAAM helped Helen secure a job, and on July 22 of this year, she started working as a direct support professional at a government group home under the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), thanks to the center’s efforts in helping her secure the job. "We take care of the residents—give them medication, assist with daily living activities like preparing their meals, and making sure they are comfortable," said Helen.  

Now, Helen has a stable job and a reliable support system, and her children are thriving in school. Her oldest daughter is studying computer engineering, while her second daughter is pursuing a career in neurology. "They make me proud every day," Helen reflects, considering the progress her five children, aged 20, 18, 15, 13, and 11, have made in just one year. 

Silvie Prinston an AmeriCorps Fellow at NAAM, supporting K-12 students through after-school and vacation programs that offer mentoring, career exploration, and academic assistance. "We’re both immigrants, but our paths are entirely different. That’s why it’s important to have places like this to accommodate different stories. That’s what makes us the new Americans."

Looking back, Helen is immensely grateful for NAAM and how it transformed her family's life. "They gave us everything we needed to start fresh. It’s not just the material things—the furniture, the clothes, or the iPads—it’s the sense of community, the way they embraced us and made us feel like we belonged. I cannot thank them enough," Helen said. 

As Helen continues to build her new life, she is determined to give back. "I want to help others who come here, just like they helped me. It’s not easy arriving in a new place, but when people welcome you with open arms and offer support, it makes all the difference. The New American Center gave me the highest gift—the chance to start over," said Helen. “NAAM is a genuine organization that helps people with a sincere heart.”