First Friends Spotlight - Bilal, Farzana, and Sarah

Written by Ruthann Kallenberg, Community Engagement Coordinator

From left to right: Bilal, Farzana*, Sarah, Sarah’s two daughters, Bilal and Farzana’s son

Sarah met Bilal and Farzana, a young married couple from Afghanistan, through ACC’s First Friends volunteer program.

Sarah entered their life at a significant time, just months before expecting their first baby. An experienced mother of four, Sarah was the perfect match to support the couple and help them know what to expect. She went to several doctor appointments with Bilal and Farzana and was privileged to be present for the birth of their son when they were so far away from family.

Friendships are built by spending time together and creating new memories, enjoying even the samll moments together. Through this past year, Sarah and Farzana have enjoyed cooking naan together, having picnics in the park, planting flowers, and playing music together. In addition to practicing English, Sarah accompanied the couple as they searched for a new apartment and helped them navigate the difficult process of moving.

Everyone has a different journey with goals and dreams from the past and opportunities and visions for the future. First Friends volunteers can walk alongside and support a newly arrived refugee family as they build new lives and new dreams in Denver.

Faces have been blurred for privacy and safety purposes