In the early 2000s, the Mukadi family of nine fled their home in the Democratic Republic of Congo to escape persecution.

Their search for safety led them to Zambia, where they were welcomed and granted refugee status. For nearly 10+ years, they waited with hope and determination, dreaming of a brighter future. Finally, on July 10, 2023, their perseverance paid off, and they were granted authorization to resettle in the United States.

Upon arrival in Denver, the Mukadi family faced the challenge of starting over. Finding housing for a family of nine and securing jobs for six working-age adults was no small task, but the African Community Center rose to the occasion. ACC’s Housing Team tirelessly worked to find a home spacious enough for the family, while the Matching Grant Program assisted the adults in building job readiness skills and overcoming employment barriers. This program aims to help refugees achieve economic self-sufficiency within 240 days without relying on cash assistance.

Four of the six working-age adults enrolled in the Matching Grant Program, where they received comprehensive support, including case management, employment skills training, job referrals, and family budget planning. After just two months, three members of the family secured full-time positions at the newly opened Capital One Lounge at Denver International Airport, earning a starting wage of $25 per hour, well above the local median wage. Soon after, the family helped their mother and sister find jobs at the airport, achieving full employment for all six adults in record time.

Within 180 days, the Mukadi family achieved economic self-sufficiency. They also moved into a larger home, providing enough space for every family member.

But their story doesn’t end there. Each family member is pursuing their dreams. All the children are back in school, with one son (left with yellow shoes) set to graduate high school in 2025. One adult has plans to start nursing school in the fall of 2025, while the eldest son is actively exploring opportunities to fulfill his dream of becoming an airline pilot. Three others are preparing to return to school, driven by their aspirations for higher education, personal growth, and better opportunities.

This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to be a part of more stories like the Mukadi family’s. Your generosity transforms lives, creating opportunities for families to not just survive but to thrive. Together, we can continue to support resilient families who arrive in search of safety and hope.

Give today. Make a difference. Change lives.

Written Rhossy Ouanzin Gbebri, Development Manager