Heba and Aziz, originally from Libya, arrived in the U.S. with their five children in 2017, seeking safety and opportunities for their family. Despite the challenges of starting anew in an unfamiliar country, they quickly became active members of their community, embracing their new home while preserving their cultural heritage. “For me, it wasn’t easy moving to the US with 5 children,” Heba says.

“Especially with a different language & culture, it wasn’t easy to make friends and look for a job. I worked very hard to get a good job. I was a teacher in my country. I started to volunteer at Beaverton School District, then I worked as an assistant teacher while going to college. All while working and raising five children. We always teach them how we never gave up!”

Their journey in Beaverton has been one of adaptation and growth. From learning English to navigating the intricacies of American life, Heba and Aziz have persevered, finding solace in their community and the support of organizations like MFS.

“At [MFS Community Schools CAFE] they respect our culture - when we celebrate Ramadan, when we celebrate Eid. They understand when the kids are fasting, when they need to go pray. They help us a lot and I always appreciate their help.”

MFS provided invaluable assistance with homework and activities at MFS Community Schools CAFE, our afterschool/in-school enrichment program, and also with tax preparation with MFS CASH Oregon, easing the transition for the family.

“For us, it wasn't easy when we came here. English is my second language. I was a volunteer at school to learn more. We are so thankful for MFS. They helped us a lot. Even when my daughter was looking for a job, MFS Community Schools CAFE helped us so much. We try to help our community, because when we came here, MFS helped us a lot.”

Heba and Aziz’s oldest daughter is now working as an Activity Leader for MFS Community Schools CAFE.

One of the most heartening aspects of Heba and Aziz's story is their commitment to giving back. Heba, a former elementary school teacher, volunteers regularly at the Beaverton City Library, where she shares Arabic stories with children, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. Meanwhile, Aziz has been actively involved in various community initiatives with their mosque, demonstrating the importance of community engagement and mutual support.

“Twice a month after I finish the story time, Arabic story time, I volunteer to teach them the Arabic letters and Arabic language. The other way would maybe be private school, but we use the library to teach them Arabic language.” Heba says.

Their dedication to community service extends beyond cultural boundaries. Whether it's participating in school events, volunteering at local mosques, or celebrating American holidays like July 4th, Heba and Aziz embody the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance. “We celebrate Thanksgiving,” says Heba. “I learned how to cook turkey.”

As they reflect on their experiences, Heba and Aziz emphasize the importance of education, cultural exchange, and respect for diversity. They cherish the opportunities their children have had to learn and grow in a multicultural environment, embracing their Libyan heritage while embracing the values of their adopted home. “My kids have friends from many cultures,” Aziz says. “They want to be doing things like their friends. Always I told them, ‘You are from Libya, but you are here now. We try to be a part of the culture here too, but we don’t forget our culture.”

“We all really appreciate our Beaverton Community,” Heba says. “We’re especially thankful to our neighbors, the Muslim Educational Trust, Beaverton School District, Beaverton City Library, Community Action, and of course MFS!”

In March and April, as they joined millions of Muslims worldwide in observing Ramadan, Heba and Aziz found comfort in the openness and acceptance they've encountered in Beaverton. This month they celebrated Eid with their family and community, sharing traditional foods and customs while fostering bonds of friendship and goodwill.

“We’re always doing things to be a part of this community. We give food to a charity in our community - people here in Portland, who are from all over the world - from Somalia, from Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Palestine. We are all the same.” Heba says. “We are bonding with the community,” Aziz notes.

As we celebrate Arab American Heritage Month, let us draw inspiration from the stories of families like Heba and Aziz's, whose resilience, generosity, and cultural pride enrich the fabric of American society. Their journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of Arab Americans and the transformative power of community.