Dear Friends, Partners, and Community Members,

As I reflect on the journey of CAIRO, the Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization, I am filled with immense gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. From humble beginnings, driven by a vision to foster a community where every African immigrant and refugee can achieve their fullest potential, CAIRO has grown into a pillar of strength, advocacy, and support for those we serve. This strategic framework marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to create a more just and equitable society.
Our mission was born from the collective stories and struggles of our community—stories of resilience, hope, and the relentless pursuit of equity. These narratives have not only shaped our organization’s ethos but have also ignited a powerful movement towards genuine inclusion and social justice. As the founder, my role has been that of a listener, advocate, and leader, always guided by the voices of those we aim to empower.
Over the years, we have witnessed remarkable achievements and faced formidable challenges. Each success has bolstered our resolve, and every obstacle has taught us valuable lessons, refining our approach and strengthening our resolve. Today, as we stand at the cusp of a new phase of growth, this strategic framework is designed to deepen our impact and expand our reach, ensuring that our efforts resonate effectively and sustainably within the community and beyond.
The strategic framework outlined here is more than just a document—it is a declaration of our collective commitment and a roadmap for the future. It reflects our aspirations to not only address the immediate needs of our community but to challenge and change the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality. It is crafted with the understanding that our work does not exist in isolation but is part of a larger narrative of global movements for human rights and social justice.
This framework is also a call to action for all stakeholders—community members, partners, funders, and policymakers—to join us in this critical work. Your support, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, is invaluable to the advancement of our mission. Together, we can build a foundation of equity that will enable our children, youth, and families to not just survive but thrive.
Thank you for your unwavering support and belief in our mission.

Warmest regards,
Abdikadir Bashir.