Cars For A Cause

Earlier this month, a hero who risked his life in Afghanistan to help U.S. troops received a car to help him settle into his new community in Rochester. Abdul Wali Akrami (pictured), known to his family and friends as “Wali”, had served as a trusted driver and aide to U.S. army forces. To refugee families like Wali’s, a car can open up doors for housing and employment that would have otherwise been just out of reach.

Rita Arora and her husband, Ben Browning, generously donated their minivan to Wali and his family.

“I really wanted it to go a family who could use it and would not be able to afford to buy one,”  said Ritika. “I was especially touched by Wali’s story about risking his life in Afghanistan to help our military and wanted to help him and his family to start a new life here in this country." 

“It was so wonderful to meet them and they were so gracious and appreciative and I feel like we helped to make a difference in their lives, ” Ritika added.

Wali's son, Aleem, also a driver for six years, was the first to arrive with his family in May 2015. It took Wali three more years to get here with his wife and three daughters, but sadly his second son, Waheed, remains in Afghanistan after the U.S. government claimed that Waheed  "aged out" of the visa system. Had the U.S. been timely in granted Wali's visa, their remaining child would be with them today.

Gifts like Ritika and Ben’s are essential in empowering refugee families. These generous donors and volunteers gave Wali more than just a car. They gave him the gift of mobility. Now, he and his family will have reliable transportation to work, medical appointments, and meetings with No One Left Behind, as the family continues their fight to bring their youngest son to America. 

Thank you to Ritika, Ben, and the volunteers who helped make this gift happen!