A new American citizen story in Portland Maine

PORTLAND and AUGUSTA, Maine- Four years ago, Mahmood Omar became the Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine’s first Muslim and first Kurdish employee when he took a part-time position at the front desk. 

Mahmood Omar, new American citizen with Maine Governor Janet Mills in the Augusta state house.

His personal story of service, perseverance and resilience, as well as his kindness and positive energy, made a huge impact at the JCA.

He now works full-time as our HIAS* Employment Services Specialist, helping refugees navigate the path to careers and self-sufficiency. On Friday October 28th, he became a Naturalized U.S. Citizen. Congratulations, Mahmood!

*HIAS is a Jewish American nonprofit organization that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to refugees.