The chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in August 2021 marked a significant moment in history, leaving behind many Afghans who assisted American military operations.
Among them was Darwaish Zakhil, who watched from Beaverton, Oregon, as the Taliban regained control of Kabul, a city he had once helped to navigate while working as an interpreter for the U.S. Army.
In the wake of this withdrawal, Zakhil found himself filled with anger and confusion, feelings shared by many in Oregon’s Afghan community.
Outrage turned into action, leading Zakhil and three fellow Afghan immigrants to establish the Afghan Support Network (ASN), aiming to assist newly arriving Afghan refugees seeking shelter and guidance in their local area.
Since its inception, ASN has experienced substantial growth and its services have become increasingly vital in the face of diminishing funding and the fear of immigration enforcement among Afghan immigrants.
As ASN approaches its fourth anniversary, Zakhil reflects on the challenges ahead but also celebrates the organization’s achievements.
Zakhil and his co-founders, including a certified accountant, a nonprofit consultant, and a city government employee, recognized a pressing need for support as they gathered around Zakhil’s dinner table to brainstorm solutions.
Their goal was to uplift Afghan refugees in their community, providing assistance that ranged from housing and translation services to case management.
Within months, ASN gained nonprofit status in December 2021, marking a significant step in formalizing their commitment to aid Afghan immigrants.
Initial funding was modest, and early efforts centered on providing essential meals for 30-50 families living in local hotels.
However, as demand for their services grew, ASN’s funding sources expanded, allowing them to open a community center in Beaverton, which became a hub for cultural and educational activities for Afghan immigrants.
Inside the center, people gather for various programs, such as nutrition classes delivered in Dari and courses aimed at facilitating their transition into American life.
The programs have significantly impacted many lives, with women learning to drive and acquiring skills that empower them and mark newfound freedoms.
Despite these successes, ASN now faces serious financial challenges.
Haqiqi, one of the organization’s leaders, reveals that many grants that previously supported their work are no longer available.
This sudden funding shortfall has led to layoffs and program adjustments, complicating the already demanding task of helping vulnerable Afghan families.
Despite these challenges, Zakhil remains optimistic and committed to finding new partnerships to ensure that support remains available to those in need.
However, the fear of immigration crackdowns looms over the Afghan community, creating a heightened sense of uncertainty.
Haqiqi highlights the pervasive anxiety stemming from the previous administration’s policies, which foster a climate of fear where individuals hesitate to engage with immigration processes, jeopardizing their paths to stability.
Moreover, many Afghan immigrants face delays in their visa hearings, exacerbating the already difficult adjustment to life in the U.S.
The system, seen by many as a maze fraught with hurdles, makes it difficult for immigrants to secure jobs in their field, as they lack the necessary documentation.
As Zakhil and Haqiqi discuss the successes of ASN, they also emphasize the necessity for a renewed commitment from the U.S. government to honor its obligations to those who risked their lives working side by side with American forces.
The potential for Afghan immigrants to contribute positively to their communities remains vast, as Zakhil dreams of a future where Afghans serve as leaders in the broader American society.
As ASN continues to navigate the dual challenges of funding and community fear, its leaders remain dedicated to uplifting their compatriots, turning the narrative of immigrant burdens into one of resilience and contribution.
Through collaboration and continuous support, ASN aims not only to serve Afghan refugees but also to create a legacy of giving back, paving the way for future generations to thrive.
image source from：opb
