About Us
Under the leadership of CEO Dr. Dorothy Hassan, Our Helpers keeps mental wellness and cultural understanding at the center of its programs and strategy. Supported by a dynamic Board of Directors and powered by passionate staff and volunteers, Our Helpers helps families move from simply surviving to confidently thriving.
Each person involved—whether staff, volunteer, or community member—is a vital thread in the fabric of Our Helpers. Together, we are weaving a stronger, more welcoming future for all.
Founded in 2014 by immigrant advocate Hodan Mohammed, Our Helpers is a women-led nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of immigrant and refugee families in Central Ohio. What began with Hodan’s personal commitment—hundreds of volunteer hours spent helping families navigate their new lives—has grown into a vibrant organization affectionately named by the community it serves.
Since the very beginning we have told the immigrant community of Central Ohio, “Don’t be lonely, don’t be sad. We are here to help.” This message continues to guide everything we do, reminding us that compassion and connection are at the heart of lasting change.
Weaving Hope Into Every Story
Our Mission
Our Helpers is on a mission to improve the lives of immigrant and refugee families in Central Ohio by connecting and providing resources in all aspects of human services.
Our Vision
A community where every immigrant family feels welcomed, supported, and able to thrive.
Our Values
Woven through everything we do are the values that bind us together and help our communities flourish.
Dignity – Every person is a thread of worth.
Belonging – Together we create an unbreakable fabric.
Rapid Support – Strengthening the weave when it is most fragile.
Growth – Adding new colors and patterns of possibility.
Wellness – Ensuring every thread is cared for and sustained.
Our Team
At Our Helpers, every role, staff, volunteer, or board member, is a vital thread in the fabric of belonging. Whether you want to share your professional expertise, offer your time as a volunteer, or help shape our vision as part of our staff team, there’s a place for you here.
Join our team today and be part of bringing dignity, belonging, and hope into every family’s story.
Our Helpers is powered by passionate staff and volunteers who bring lived experience, cultural understanding, and professional expertise to every interaction. Each member is a unique thread, adding strength and compassion to the fabric of our community.
Our Board
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Carl Holtman
Chairman of the Board
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Laura Berger Abbas
Board Treasurer
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Anisa Liban
Board Secretary
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Ellen Rapkin
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Brooke Leonard
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Abdullahi Saleh
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Naima Ilmi
Join Our Team
At Our Helpers, every role, staff, volunteer, or board member, is a vital thread in the fabric of belonging. Whether you want to share your professional expertise, offer your time as a volunteer, or help shape our vision as part of our staff team, there’s a place for you here.
Join our team today and be part of bringing dignity, belonging, and hope into every family’s story.