MISSION
NEAAO’s mission is to bridge the culture gap for a healthier, better-integrated community.
ABOUT US
We are an energetic group of professionals who are passionate about advocating for our mission and vision. Immigrant and refugee voices inform all programs and services as well as our vision for a healthy, resilient, integrated community. We speak the same language, share the same culture, and cherish the same values and concerns. Compassion and experience make us a highly effective resource to help new Arab immigrants integrate and positively contribute to our new society.
New England Arab American Organization was founded at the request of many New Mainers who came to Maine, fleeing their countries because of war and chaos, to seek safety for their families. NEAAO's goal is to have multiple hubs in different cities of New England to support Arabic-speaking people from many countries.
NEAAO helps ease integration of Arab immigrants into the American society by bridging the gap between the cultures.
NEAAO is hiring! Join our Team
Help us expand our programs and services as we continue to grow. NEAAO has the following job openings beginning in January 2023.
To apply, please send a resume and message of interest to Zoe Sahloul at Zoe.Sahloul@neaao.org. Please include APPLICANT in the subject.
Community Health Worker (Afghan) - Full Time
Community Health Worker (Arabic/English) - Full Time
Finance and Administrative Coordinator - Part Time
Why We Do This Work
THE STRUGGLE
Arab immigrants experience various feelings of grief during their transition. They struggle with the loss of their home country, family and language.
In particular, women and children are most targeted and impacted by those changes. Women are especially isolated as they are in constant fear of being judged and potentially harmed due to their different appearance and culture. On the other hand, many children suffer from severe losses in motivation, leading to chronic absence and even early dropouts.
OUR VISION AND MISSION
We envision a future where people live in culturally diverse, productive, and welcoming communities, with a sense of pride, inclusion, empowerment, and fulfillment.
NEAAO bridges cultures, celebrates diversity, and empowers Arab Americans and New Mainers to build healthy, fulfilling, and productive lives in their community while preserving their heritage.
Guiding Principles
At NEAAO, we envision a thriving and inclusive community that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Arab Americans in New England. Our vision is to empower, uplift, and unify Arab Americans, fostering a society where individuals of all backgrounds are embraced, respected, and provided with equal opportunities to succeed. Through collaboration, advocacy, and cultural exchange, we aim to bridge cultural gaps, break down barriers, and promote a harmonious coexistence that enriches the fabric of New England’s diverse tapestry.
TARGET COMMUNITIES
No matter what country, dialect, religion, age or gender, NEAAO serves all immigrants that speak Arabic. Looking forward, we are planning to expand our services throughout the state of Maine with a hub in every major city. Currently, we are focused on Westbrook where the Arab immigrant population has recently risen sharply.