To improve the lives of immigrant and refugee families by connecting and providing resources in all aspects of human services.
Inspire full integration of immigrant and refugee families by connecting Central Ohio through mutual understanding.
Our clients come from different countries and speak different languages. We provide culturally sensitive programs to our clients.
When muralists Ryan Sarfati and Eric Skotnes were learning about Columbus before painting their 11,000 square foot, 11 stories tall mural at the Graduate Hotel at 750 N High St, Columbus in the Short North Arts District, they learned that Columbus has the second largest Somali community in the United States. Being the children of immigrants, they wanted to celebrate the immigrant experience in the city. During their research, they met Hodan Mohammed, the founder of Our Helpers and knew they had the central piece of their mural in a portrait of her representing those who have the strength and courage to leave their homes to come to Columbus and succeed. A mystical experience of hummingbirds flying around their heads one day brought them to study the birds. They found a direct parallel in their migratory pattern as far as the Somali population traveling to Columbus. A circle of hummingbirds completed the vision that became “The Journey”. Since its completion in June of 2020, ‘The Journey’ has become an iconic mural in the Short North Arts District.
Mission: To help all who seek employment. One of Our Helpers primary functions is helping New Americans obtain employment. We accomplish this through helping people search for open jobs, write resumes, practice employment interviews, “dress for success” and teaching language skills. We have built relationships with local businesses to help the employment process go smoothly. We track each client's retention on the job to ensure the proper fit. Anyone is welcome to use our services, there are no requirements in serving everyone.
Mission: To develop the minds, hearts and lives of those who have become susceptible to Drug Abuse, Gang Life and Radicalization.
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to identify the unique struggles facing the Somali Immigrant Youth in terms of drug abuse, violence, extremism, etc. We successfully have created a basketball program that includes workshops on issues the youth face. In its third year, 300 youth have benefitted from this incredible program..
We envision a city where all individuals and families can communicate their needs and never have to make a choice that may affect their life due to a language barrier.
If you would like to get help communicating with Somali audiences or a document translated contact us, we will refer you to one of our interpretation service providers.
