Together, We Thrive: Reflecting on a Year of Growth and Community

 
 

As we look back on the past year, the words “Together, We Thrive” resonate deeply with everything we’ve accomplished at Amani Family Services. We are so grateful for the collective strength, resilience, and collaborative efforts that have defined 2024.

First Steps in Action

This year marked a significant milestone as Amani and community leaders gathered at the Allen County Public Library to announce the launch of the Welcoming Fort Wayne Plan. This 3-5 year plan offers recommendations and strategies to create a more inclusive, welcoming community.

Celebrating Women Worldwide

Amani celebrated International Women’s Day with staff and community supporters. This annual lunch recognizes the incredible global contributions of women and highlights the specific challenges and obstacles immigrant women face as victims of crime.

Paying it Forward

Emmy Award-Winning CBS correspondent Steve Hartman discussed the power of kindness as the featured speaker for the Jonathan Hancock Lecture Series. Amani was honored to be this year’s nonprofit partner. We are so grateful to Canterbury School and the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne for their support!



Collaboration of Care

The IU Health Foundation awarded $1 million to the Refugee Health Collaborative, which includes Amani, St. Joseph Community Health Foundation, Catholic Charities of Fort Wayne - South Bend and International House, to help meet the needs of Burmese refugees visiting the primary care office of Dr. Cho Mar Aung.

Kickin’ it with Fort Wayne Football Club

Amani joined an international celebration as the local Fort Wayne Football Club took on the Chivas de Guadalajara U23 from Mexico at the University of Saint Francis’ Bishop D’Arcy Stadium.


Growth in Welcoming

Amani and community partners hosted the 3rd annual Welcoming Week, welcoming more than 2,000 participants to inclusive events from Sept. 13-22! Highlights included:

  • The new Welcoming Spaces alley at Downtown Fort Wayne’s Alley Bash

  • A student art exhibit at the University of Saint Francis

  • The annual Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards, where a sold-out crowd celebrated this year’s recipients. Learn more about this year’s winner

The Beat Goes On

Amani’s annual One Beat event was one for the books! Our incredible sponsors took the stage as lip sync bands to support our multicultural community, helping us raise nearly $90,000!

Congratulations to our One Beat Award Winners:

  • 1st Place: The DeHayes Group - Category 5

  • 2nd Place: 3Rivers Federal Credit Union - The Money Thrillers

  • 3rd Place: Five Star Distributing - Sudsy and the 5 Stars

  • Beat the Donation Drum: 3Rivers Federal Credit Union - The Money Thrillers

  • Judges' Pick: STAR Financial Bank

  • Crowd Favorite: STAR Financial Bank

Space for Play

Amani celebrated the opening of the new Green Space located on the agency’s campus. Equipped with natural playground equipment, benches, a play fort, and picnic tables, this new play area offers a welcoming space for Amani’s clients and their families to connect during their visits.





Help From Our Friends

We gathered with our incredible group of volunteers in December to share our gratitude for their efforts throughout the year. The success of Amani’s partnership and events is greatly supported by individuals who give their time, talent and treasures to make a difference. This year, Amani named Samantha Tata as the Volunteer of the Year!

A Phenomenal Person of the Year

Amani CEO Ewelina Connolly was named one of Fort Wayne Magazine’s People of the Year and graced the cover of the December Issue!









The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 12

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • Watch our new Mission Video and consider donating for Giving Tuesday!

  • CEO Ewelina Connolly was featured on Fort Wayne Magazine’s People of the Year cover

  • Amani joins partners in Diversity Dialogue discussion on Community Centered Care

  • Learn more about Community Support Intern Jeremy Mclendon, our featured staff for October!

  • Welcoming Fort Wayne Spotlight: Indiana Economic Development Corporation and The International Center launch Korea-Indiana Partnership

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Amani Celebrates 2024 Volunteer of the Year

Name:

Samantha Tata

Volunteer Roles:

Fund Development Committee
One Beat event committee

Length of service:

2 Years

Why she does the work:

“Fostering a sense of belonging in the community is so important. Everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported.”

How did you learn about amani?

I became familiar with Amani through my current employer and their partnership with the organization. My employer actively encourages community engagement, urging us to identify our passions and direct our energy towards a cause that resonates with us.

How do you currently serve?

 I have volunteered as a band member at OneBeat, and a guest at OneBeat as well prior to joining the Fund Development Committee, and OneBeat committee. I continue to support as a band member year after year, even when I was 7 months pregnant. To be able to put yourself out there to raise funds for such an amazing cause brings me joy. I continue to serve on the committees because I am committed to supporting  the mission of the organization. I believe effective fundraising is crucial for advancing the work they do. I have the opportunity to use my skills and passion to support in securing the resources needed to make a meaningful impact in the community. This committee pushes me to grow, because it is a team of strong, smart individuals and I have loved learning from each one of them.

Why do you invest your time in supporting our mission?

Fostering a sense of belonging in the community is so important. Everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported, especially to those who may be facing significant challenges in adapting to a new environment. Creating a nurturing space for these families is incredibly impactful and I am honored to contribute in any way to this effort.

Interested in volunteering or interning at Amani Family Services? This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: https://amanifamilyservices.org/volunteering

 

The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 11

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • Watch our new Mission Video and consider donating for Giving Tuesday!

  • CEO Ewelina Connolly was featured on Fort Wayne Magazine’s People of the Year cover

  • Amani joins partners in Diversity Dialogue discussion on Community Centered Care

  • Learn more about Community Support Intern Jeremy Mclendon, our featured staff for October!

  • Welcoming Fort Wayne Spotlight: Indiana Economic Development Corporation and The International Center launch Korea-Indiana Partnership

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Intern Spotlight: Jeremy McClendon

Name:

Jeremy McClendon

College, year:

Michigan State University, MSW

Department:

Community Support Program

SEmester:

Fall 2024 & Spring 2025

How did you get connected to AMani?

My child welfare colleagues informed me about Amani Family Services. They expressed that Amani is an amazing agency, and they encouraged me to inquire about completing my clinical internship with this agency since it closely aligns with my personal and professional values.

what kinds of projects have you been helping with during your internship?

I am an MSW clinical intern. I am learning and working in the Community Support Program. Our program provides individual counseling to children and adults. Recently, I assisted our program manager (Emily Bayer, LCSW) with redesigning the community-based Parenting Workship and Bi-Cultural Social Skills group for adolescents/teenagers.

What brought you to Fort Wayne, IN?

I have called Fort Wayne home all of my life. I was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

What excites you most about Amani’s mission?

That they are committed to helping immigrant and refugee individuals and families so that they can be prosperous in our community, and in the United States.

What is your favorite part of your internship?

My favorite part of my internship is being able to provide individual counseling.

What challenges have you faced in your role or department?

Language barriers. I would definitely love to learn to speak Spanish.

What should community members know about Amani?

That our commitment is deep-rooted in supporting individuals and families in their pursuit of the American Dream, while also promoting happiness, health, safety, and prosperity.

Any advice for students looking for an internship at Amani?

I would let a future intern know that they should keep an open mind, and that this internship will help you learn how to serve individuals from various backgrounds. I would also advise future interns to brush up on and or have a passion for advocacy in clinical practice.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Travel, attending sports games, indulging in retail therapy, unwinding, enjoying time with friends, and dining at various restaurants.

What is something not many people know about you?

I love to collect new and vintage fountain pens, and I also love to collect magnets of all of the destinations that I have visited around the world.

Interested in volunteering or interning at Amani Family Services? This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: https://amanifamilyservices.org/volunteering

The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 10

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • A big THANK YOU to all of our partners and supporters for a successful One Beat 2024!

  • Join the Giving Tuesday Fort Wayne Challenge

  • Learn more about Victim Care Intern Ivonne Ruiz, our featured staff for October!

  • Welcoming Fort Wayne Spotlight: Fort Wayne Museum of Art hosts community-centered exhibition for Día de los Muertos

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Amplify Your Impact This Giving Tuesday with Amani Family Services!

As we gear up for the holiday season, we are offered a unique opportunity to support causes that make a real difference in our communities. This year, we’re excited to share that you can amplify your support for Amani Family Services through the Community Foundation’s 7th Annual Giving Tuesday Challenge! Every dollar you donate will go even further, thanks to the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, which will generously match 20% of every donation to our agency's endowment fund from November 1 through 20.

But what does this mean for our mission and the community we serve? Here’s how your support can have an even greater impact.

Why Should I Give?

Each gift made toward Amani’s endowment fund, securely held at the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, is an investment into the organization's future. An endowment is designed for permanency and long-term sustainability.

An endowment can grow through ongoing contributions and positive investment returns. A percentage of those earnings are used to advance the organization’s charitable mission.

How the 20% Match Works

Every dollar counts, and with this year’s Giving Tuesday Challenge, your support can go even further! For every donation made to Amani Family Services' endowment fund, the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne will contribute an additional 20%. This matching opportunity means that a $100 donation becomes $120, directly increasing our resources to continue offering essential services to the families who need them most.

What Your Support Means for the Future

Our endowment fund is critical to ensuring that Amani Family Services has long-term sustainability. By growing our endowment, we’re investing in the future of our community—one where immigrants and refugees have the support they need to thrive. Your Giving Tuesday Challenge donation not only helps us meet today’s needs but also strengthens our ability to serve families for years to come.

How You Can Help

  1. Make a Donation: Every donation, big or small, will receive the 20% match, amplifying your impact!

  2. Spread the Word: Share this post with friends and family, and encourage others to support Amani Family Services.

  3. Celebrate Generosity: This Giving Tuesday, join us in the spirit of giving, knowing that your contribution is making a lasting difference.

Join Us in Building a Brighter Future

Let’s work together to create a stronger, more inclusive community. This Giving Tuesday, maximize your support for Amani Family Services and help us build a brighter, more welcoming future for all. Your generosity will resonate today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

Ready to make a difference? Click here to be directed to Amani’s donation page and to ensure your gift receives the 20% match. Thank you for helping Amani Family Services continue our work in making our community a better place for everyone!

Intern Spotlight: Yvonne Ruiz

Name:

Ivonne Ruiz

College, year:

Purdue Fort Wayne, Senior

Department:

Victim Care Program

SEmester:

Fall 2024


How did you get connected to AMani?

My internship professor was the one that connected me with Amani. Before that, I hadn’t heard of Amani, but I am glad to now know of a great organization that greatly benefits our community.

what kinds of projects have you been helping with during your internship?

I have been at Amani for almost 2 months. I am with the department of Victim Care, and I have been learning a lot about referrals, intakes, and overall, the process of how clients get seen at Amani and how Amani helps them. I’ve been learning more about the courts and the law. I’ve also done some shadowing and cataloging closed cases.

What brought you to Fort Wayne, IN?

My mom’s family lives here, so my parents thought it would be a good idea to move closer to them.

What excites you most about Amani’s mission?

Because I came to the U.S. without knowing anything, like the language and the culture, I am excited to work with an organization that wants those who come to the U.S. to feel safe and to have that feeling of belonging.

What is your favorite part of your internship?

Everything I do is my favorite part. I am learning new things every day and I am getting to know what is truly done out in the field and not just see it through a textbook. I am getting the experience and opportunity to know whether this is the right path for me and what I can do with this degree.

What challenges have you faced in your role or department?

A challenging thing for me so far is in implementing what I’ve learned in class in real life. I am concerned that I will say the wrong thing or that I will come off as rude and not have the empathy that is necessary when working with clients. I think that the more experience I get, the better I will get at it, but for now that is something I am working on.

What should community members know about Amani?

They should know that Amani is a place where clients will feel welcomed and understood. That they will not allow a language barrier to interfere with their services and will find a way to communicate with clients. Amani tries their best with every case, and they will connect clients with other organizations when needed.

Any advice for students looking for an internship at Amani?

One advice I would give them is to not be too worried about it. Everyone here is super nice, and they are willing to talk to you about any questions you have. If you are interested in anything, Amani gives you the chance to learn about it, and you might even be able to shadow or do it on your own. There are many opportunities to further your career.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy my me time. I like to watch my favorite TV shows or read. I know that in this field, burnout is common, so being able to take time off for myself and take my mind off school/work is important.

What is something not many people know about you?

Something surprising is that I wasn’t born in the United States. I was 8 years old when I came to the United States.


Interested in volunteering or interning at Amani Family Services? This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: https://amanifamilyservices.org/volunteering

The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 9

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • Get Ready to Rock! Get your tickets to Amani’s annual One Beat-A Lip Sync Battle today!

  • Give your favorite Lip Sync Bands a leg up on the competition - vote for your favorite bands now!

  • A big THANK YOU to all of our partners and supporters for a fantastic Welcoming Week 2024!

  • Learn more about Community Liaison Adriana early, our featured staff for September!

  • Welcoming Fort Wayne Spotlight: Fort Wayne Metro, Urban League, bring interactive UnWelcomed exhibit to Fort Wayne

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Staff Feature: Adriana Early

Name:

Adriana Early

Job Title:

Community Liaison

Department:

Family Support Program

aMANI START DATE:

January 2022

What inspired you to join the team here?

I initially joined Amani as an intern, knowing very little about the agency. However, as I learned more about the work Amani does and the community it serves, I became deeply intrigued by its mission and impact.

What brought you to Fort Wayne, IN?

I was born and raised in Fort Wayne. My parents came from Mexico and met in Chicago, but they moved to Fort Wayne when my mother was pregnant with me.

What excites you most about Amani’s mission?

The most exciting aspect of Amani’s mission is the positive impact we have on families. Helping people build better futures for themselves is truly rewarding.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love working with the community we serve and seeing the growth in our clients over time. Watching their progress and resilience is very fulfilling.

What challenges have you faced in your role or department?

One challenge we often face is when clients are hindered in achieving their goals due to a lack of documentation. It can be a roadblock, but we do everything we can to help them navigate through it.

What should community members know about Amani?

Amani is a unique agency that works with underserved communities, providing services and resources to individuals and families. We strengthen not only these families but also the community as a whole.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my family and watching my children grow. When I have time for myself, I love working on arts and crafts—whether it’s drawing, painting, or starting a project that I’ll eventually finish!

What is something not many people know about you?

I went to cosmetology school in high school and have a cosmetology license in the state of Indiana.


Amani Family Services is hiring! This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: amanifamilyservices.org/careers

Howard Chapman, Residents, and Organizations Honored for Work to Create a Welcoming Community

Howard Chapman, Residents, and Organizations Honored for Work to Create a Welcoming Community

Fort Wayne, IN (September 20, 2024) – Three Individuals and one organization were honored this morning for their work to make Fort Wayne a community that welcomes everyone, especially immigrants and refugees.

The 2024 Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards took place this morning at 8:30 a.m. at Ceruti’s Summit Room. Winners include Kun Yekha, Gaby Aleman, Fort Wayne Chinese Families and Friends Association, and Howard Chapman.

The Lifetime Achiever Award was presented to Kun Yekha. Kun Yekha was active in the prodemocracy movement in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, and became a political refugee in Thailand because of his activism. In 2002, he received an opportunity to come to the United States through a journalism internship in Washington D.C. and successfully obtained asylee status. For more than 20 years, he has been a leader in the local Mon community.

Gaby Aleman was honored with the Emerging Leader Award. Aleman, one of the lead pastors of Iglesia Principe de Paz, established Ayuda a tu prójima Fort Wayne, a Facebook Group that aimed to foster unity within the community and connect individuals with vital resources. In the past 8 years, the group has grown to a membership of 27,300. Through this platform, she continuously advocates for the Spanish-speaking immigrant population, encompassing crucial areas such as housing, furniture, clothing, and medical care.

The Welcoming Organization Award was presented to the Fort Wayne Chinese Families and Friends Association. Founded in 1983 by a small number of Chinese immigrants from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Mainland China, the organization’s mission has been twofold: first to preserve Chinese culture and traditions among the local Chinese community, and second to serve the wider community through collaboration and outreach. Each year, the association hosts community celebrations of traditional Chinese holidays such as Chinese New Year, Mid-autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival.

In addition to the annual awards, Amani Family Services presented Howard Chapman with the inaugural Amani Ambassador of the Year Award. This new award category was created to recognize community leaders who have directly impacted the organization and have greatly contributed to making the community a better place.

Chapman is a distinguished attorney and philanthropist whose impact on the community spans more than 50 years and touches every corner of Fort Wayne. His efforts extend to education, healthcare, the arts, and our multicultural community. Chapman’s leadership helped Fort Wayne form its first sister city relationship with Takaoka, Japan in 1977 and his commitment to building a welcoming community continues to this day.

"We're thrilled to recognize the individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for immigrants and refugees in Fort Wayne," said Ewelina Connolly, CEO of Amani Family Services. "The Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards are a chance to celebrate the shared values that make our community a place where everyone feels at home."

Welcoming Week will end with the opening reception for the “Works of Welcome” exhibition, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University of Saint Francis. Local high school students were invited to explore the immigrant and refugee experience in greater Fort Wayne and capture these stories in works of art. Art from this project will be displayed at the University of Saint Francis’s Rolland Art Center from September 21 through October 13. Learn more: https://amanifamilyservices.org/works-of-welcome

Welcoming Week is made possible by our following sponsors: Presenting Sponsors – Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, Advocate Sponsors – Google, Bowen Health Center and NIPSCO/NiSource Charitable Foundation, Supporter Sponsor – St. Joseph Community Health Foundation and AnCor and Welcomer Sponsors – Ivy Tech, Neighborhood Health, Old National Bank and Liechty Media

The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 8

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • Welcoming Week is around the corner! Sign up for one of 10 community events taking place between September 13-22!

  • Register today for the annual Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards

  • Strike up the bands! Get your tickets to Amani’s annual One Beat - A Lip Sync Battle today!

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Staff Feature: Maria Zamudio

Maria Zamudio graduated with her Bachelors of Social Work from Indiana University this Spring, and started her Masters of Social Work program this summer.

Maria was born and spent her early childhood in Mexico with her family. Her early years were challenging due to health issues that required frequent doctor’s visits. At the same time, her father had been working in the United States to support their family. When Maria was seven, her father decided to resettle the whole family in the U.S. in order to pursue better opportunities and stability.

At first, the transition was difficult. The Hispanic community was small in the 1990s, and the culture shock Maria experienced was intense. The school schedule was different, the school subjects were unfamiliar, and the taste of the food was strange and unappealing to her. Making friends was hard because everyone spoke English. Maia was naturally shy as a little girl, and she recalls walking around the playground by herself, not knowing anyone. Over time, Maria began to find comfort in her English Language Learners (ELL) class, where she found she could express herself.

Maria always worried that her family would be taken advantage of because of their language and cultural barriers. Her parents worked long hours, leaving them disconnected from her life. Maria had her first child at the end of high school and took on factory and restaurant jobs to provide, feeling trapped in the same cycle she had feared. In 2012, the announcement of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) was a game-changer. She applied immediately and was one of the first to be approved, opening new career opportunities to her.

“ I love everything I do here. When we came to the US we did not have this type of help. Amani supports people who are struggling and need accurate information and guidance.”
— Maria Zamudio

While working as a receptionist at a mental health agency she met Josefina, who encouraged her to pursue further education. Maria enrolled at Ivy Tech, where she earned an associate's degree in Human Services. By the time she graduated, Josefina had joined Amani. Maria then interned at Amani before being hired as a Victim Advocate. Initially, she was very nervous, but quickly realized she could provide resources and empower clients, often telling them - we’re going to do this together! Maria’s role evolved, and she transitioned to the Family Support Associate Program Manager, leveraging her administrative skills. "I love everything I do here," she says. "When we came to the US we did not have this type of help. Amani supports people who are struggling and need accurate information and guidance.”

Through her various positions interacting with clients, Maria saw an overwhelming need for counseling services in immigrant communities and this inspired her to work toward becoming a therapist. She graduated earlier this month with a bachelor's degree in social work from Indiana University and now she is starting the master’s program.

When Maria’s not in the office or in class, she’s busy raising two teenagers! She enjoys car rides on the way to her son’s soccer tournaments because it gives them a chance to connect and talk about life. She also loves dancing to Spanish music and escaping the stress of the day by lifting weights at the gym. Maria’s parents are her biggest supporters and they continue to motivate her to create a better life for herself.

Amani Family Services is hiring! This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: amanifamilyservices.org/careers

Amani Family Services Celebrates Community Champions at Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards

Fort Wayne, IN (August 07, 2024) – Join Amani Family Services' Welcoming Fort Wayne initiative in celebrating the individuals and organizations building a more inclusive community at the annual Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards, 8:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 20.

The event will take place at Ceruti’s Summit Room, 6601 Innovation Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46818. Admission is free but registration is required by visiting amanifamilyservices.org/welcoming-fort-wayne-awards. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and a light breakfast will be served.

Community members are also encouraged to nominate deserving organizations and individuals to receive an award. Award nominations can be submitted until Monday, August 26. Download nomination forms at amanifamilyservices.org/welcoming-fort-wayne-awards.

The Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards celebrates the achievements of exceptional immigrants and refugees, native community individuals, organizations, and companies that have demonstrated a strong commitment to multiculturalism.

There are three categories:

  • Lifetime Achiever: Honors an experienced leader who has devoted a significant portion of their career and volunteer work to the immigrant and refugee community. Their service has deeply impacted multiculturalism in Allen County for more than a decade.

  • Emerging Leader: Honors a newcomer to the multicultural community who has demonstrated exceptional resilience and commitment to improving the community and lives of immigrant/refugee families through their burgeoning career or volunteer work.

  • Welcoming Organization: Recognizes a for-profit or nonprofit organization that has made a lasting effort to be inclusive and welcoming through engagements with the refugee and immigrant refugee community. In addition to its external efforts, the organization demonstrates multicultural representation at various levels of leadership and has taken initiative in hiring immigrants and refugees in Allen County, Indiana.

"We all thrive when we feel a sense of belonging," says Ewelina Connolly, CEO of Amani Family Services. "The Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards honor those who bridge the gap between immigrants, refugees, and the wider community."

Welcoming Week is a globally-recognized celebration in which communities strive to be a more welcoming place for all, including immigrants and refugees. In partnership with several local community partners, Welcoming Week will feature events from Friday, September 13 to Saturday, September 21 that are focused on art, education and local resources. The full Welcoming Week event schedule can be found at amanifamilyservices.org/welcoming-week.

Welcoming Week is made possible by our following sponsors: Presenting Sponsor – Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, Advocate Sponsors – Bowen Health Center and NIPSCO/NiSource Charitable Foundation, Supporter Sponsor - AnCor HR and Welcomer Sponsors – Ivy Tech, Old National Bank and Liechty Media. Amani Family Services is a local nonprofit organization serving nearly 2,000 individuals from around the world. Learn more at www.amanifamilyservices.org.


Event Information:

What: Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards

When: 8:30 to 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where: Ceruti’s Summit Room, 6601 Innovation Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46818

Admission: Free; register and download nomination forms at amanifamilyservices.org/welcoming-fort-wayne-awards; check out the full Welcoming Week schedule at amanifamilyservices.org/welcoming-week.

The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 7

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • Amani CEO Ewelina Connolly is named Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation’s Class VI Outstanding Fellow!

  • Catch up with Welcoming Fort Wayne in our Year in Review.

  • Save the Dates: Celebrate Welcoming Week with us from September 13-22 and join us for One Beat-A Lip Sync Battle on October 24!

  • Learn more about Prevention Specialist Joel Alvarez, our featured staff for July!

  • Welcoming Fort Wayne Spotlight: Super Shot provides vital preventative care for vulnerable populations.

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Staff Feature: Joel Alvarez

Name:

Joel Alvarez

Job Title:

Substance Use Prevention Specialist

Department:

Substance Use Program

amani start date:

3/12/2024

What inspired you to join the team here?

The opportunity to help to educate our immigrant community regarding substance use.

What brought you to Fort Wayne, IN?

Looking to have to my own experience in the American culture. I had family living here that allowed me to come here and get situated.

What excites you most about Amani’s mission?

Being able to help other immigrants develop the sense of belonging by guiding them to explore and reach their full potential in a way that their communities can benefit from their growth.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Seeing individuals willing to challenge and better themselves by doing the work is the part of my job that I enjoy. I like seeing when they realize that not only are their lives getting better, but also everyone else’s lives within their reach.

What challenges have you faced in your role or department?

Since I have only been here a little over four months, I am still learning my job position and responsibilities. I can say that I have a great support from my substance use team as I adapt into this position.

The most challenging part of my job is to keep in mind that some of our clients have many social, emotional, economical, and political disadvantages. However, the power of a good decision may increase their chances for a better outcome.

What should community members know about Amani?

Amani is a good work environment. We provide services for the community as we try to even the playing field for our immigrant community based on what they need. We also partner with other organizations because as a community we realize that we all may need help at some point in our lives. For those in a position to help, we are always seeking more resources to invest into our community.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I am fortunate to have the support of a good, loving family. I spend time with my large extended family whenever possible, primarily with my beautiful wife JoAnne, my super creative and kind son David, and my talented artistic daughter, Briana. With whatever time I have left, I enjoy working on home repairs.

What is something not many people know about you?

People do not realize that I no longer drink alcohol because I am a recovering alcoholic myself. This has helped me empathize with people struggling with addictions.


Amani Family Services is hiring! This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: amanifamilyservices.org/careers

The Ambassador Volume 2, Issue 6

Plenty of good news to share in this month's Ambassador! Check it out here.

In this issue:

  • Amani joins the Greater Fort Wayne Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the economic impact of immigrants during their Cuarto Jueves Networking Meeting.

  • Fort Wayne Football Club brings international soccer to the Fort!

  • Save the dates for Welcoming Week 2024! The full schedule is out now.

  • Learn more about therapist Su Roth, our featured staff for July!

  • In Other News: Amani celebrates World Refugee Day with a digital campaign, and One Beat tickets go on sale!

  • Welcoming Fort Wayne Spotlight: Three PFW faculty members represent the university in Bangladesh.

Join our email list for the latest updates!

Amani CEO Ewelina Connolly named Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation’s Class VI Outstanding Fellow

The Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation (MDLF) announced today Ewelina Connolly, CEO of Amani Family Services, is the recipient of the Class VI Outstanding Fellow Award.

Last year, Connolly was one of 25 leaders selected from a competitive pool of 137 applicants across 28 counties to participate in the Class VI Fellowship. As the sole representative from Allen County, Connolly has made a great impression on her peers and MDLF leadership with her dedication and insight. The Class VI Fellows nominated Connolly to be recognized for her contributions.

"I am deeply grateful for the Foundation's investment in me. This leadership development opportunity has not only inspired me to dream bigger but has also equipped me with the essential tools, support, and networks needed to take concrete steps toward making these dreams a reality and improving Indiana's future,” Connolly said.

 Over the past year, Connolly has participated in monthly convenings and coursework focused on critical state issues including the economy, education, healthcare and civil society.

 “Ewelina’s strength in relationship building is evident in her meaningful participation inside and outside our Fellowship and in her community. She is always engaged and eager to learn how she can help make Indiana a better place to build a future,” MDLF Fellowship Chair Maureen Weber stated in an announcement.

Connolly will be formally recognized alongside Former Indiana Lt. Governor John M. Mutz and and fellow Class VI honoree Dan Kozlowski on August 28, 2024 during MDLF’s Annual Event. To learn more, go to www.mdlfindiana.org/annual-event.

Staff Feature: Su Roth

LCSW Su Roth’s personal and professional experiences reinforce her passion for bringing mental health services to underserved populations.

Su was born in Burma when the country was under a military regime and isolated from the rest of the world. As a child, she felt like it was a good place to live, having believed the propaganda spread by the government. Her perspective changed when her father, a visiting professor teaching the Burmese language in South Korea, relocated their family.

The exposure to democracy and new freedoms was a revelation for Su; she also learned Korean during this time. Su’s older sister developed an interest in Western culture, which inspired their parents to pursue opportunities in America. Just before she turned 16, Su’s family won the green card lottery and emigrated to the United States.

The transition was tough for Su, who started high school with limited English skills and felt lonely and anxious as the only Burmese student. Nevertheless, she worked hard and improved her grades from Fs to As. Her college years were transformative. She met a diverse group of international students, made lifelong friends, and even participated in an exchange program to South Korea. At first, Su followed the pre-med track due to external expectations, but an introductory psychology course sparked a deep interest in her. Despite her family’s stigmatizing views on the subject, Su went on to earn a minor in Psychology from Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW).

““I love working with refugee populations because they demonstrate a willingness and eagerness to learn. These individuals have overcome so much to be here, and they put extra effort into anything that they do”.”
— Su Roth

Su’s time at university was also her first point of contact with Crime Victim Care of Allen County (CVC), which later became Amani Family Services. She met Babra, a program manager with CVC, who introduced her to the agency. Through this contact, Su began working as an interpreter and collaborated with Ewelina, current Amani CEO and former CVC therapist. Babra and Ewelina were both influential figures in Su’s life who showed her the impact she could have in the mental health field.

Working with Amani was an amazing experience for Su, which provided valuable insights into navigating American culture and systems. Ewelina encouraged Su to pursue counseling, which led Su to follow that passion to Indianapolis and earn her Master of Social Work (MSW) from IUPUI in 2020. While working at a clinic in Indianapolis, Su interacted with many Burmese refugees. She noticed that they were incredibly hardworking and focused on providing for their families, but often struggled with balancing work and home life. “Refugees are often misunderstood because of the title attached to them,” said Su. “Talk to people and listen to their stories. It can be heartbreaking, but you will understand how they are seeking stability for their families, just like everyone else."

In 2022, Su moved back to Fort Wayne to be closer to family and worked as a therapist at a local facility. She recently passed her clinical exam to become a fully licensed Clinical Socal Worker (LCSW) and returned to work at Amani through funding provided by the Refugee Health Collaborative. “I love working with refugee populations because they demonstrate a willingness and eagerness to learn,” said Su. “These individuals have overcome so much to be here, and they put extra effort into anything that they do”.

Outside of work, Su is a mother of two young children, aged 6 and 2. She enjoys cooking, traveling internationally, and spending time in nature.


Amani Family Services is hiring! This is a wonderful time to join our team and play a critical role in supporting our immigrant and refugee community. Learn more here: amanifamilyservices.org/careers

Fort Wayne Football Club Brings International Soccer to Fort Wayne

Four all-star kiddos (Eli Connolly, Aldin Cejvanovic, Jose Daniel Romero, and Felix Roth) represented Amani during the opening ceremony of the Fort Wayne FC-Chivas game on June 16.

On Father’s Day, Amani had the opportunity to witness firsthand a thrilling international friendly soccer match between Fort Wayne FC and Chivas de Guadalajara U23 from Mexico, at the University of Saint Francis’ Bishop D’Arcy Stadium.  

Fort Wayne FC, a pre-professional football club in Fort Wayne, IN, invited Amani Family Services to be a partner in their friendly face-off against Chivas. Amani staff and supporters had a great time celebrating the international love of soccer at this event. In addition, Amani outreach were able to share about our programs and services through an outreach table.

Founded in 1906, Club Deportivo Guadalajara, known colloquially as Chivas, is a popular and beloved club in Mexico. This event was a special opportunity for Fort Wayne residents to experience international soccer at the highest level.

The match was a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination from both sides. Both teams showcased some of the best talents in North American soccer. The atmosphere surrounding the game was electric, with supporters from both teams bringing their fervor and energy to the stadium. Whether you were cheering for Fort Wayne FC or Las Chivas de Guadalajara U23, one thing is certain: Fort Wayne Indiana brings the opportunity for both nations to come together, celebrate diversity, promote goodwill, and demonstrate unity.

Watch Amani lead the Opening Ceremony of the Fort Wayne FC-Chivas game here!

"Amani" :  peace (Kiswahili), aspirations or wishes (Arabic)

Amani Family Services is a 501(c)(3) organization. Services funded by Amani are provided to all persons without regard to age, gender, race, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, immigration status, or any other barriers to participation.
Founded in 2006   |   2022 Annual Report  | 2020 Form 990