By Liz Godfrey, Communications Manager
August 2024

When I started with Opening Doors in mid-June, I was thrilled about all the different ways we help families in need. One experience I was especially looking forward to was setting up homes for arriving families after I’d seen the recent story on Opening Door’s Instagram. Just four weeks into my new role as the Communications Manager, I got my chance to be part of this life-changing process. 

On a regular day at my desk, a coworker mentioned that a family from Afghanistan would be arriving soon, and we needed to prepare an apartment for them. Eager to contribute, I jumped at the chance to join the team. It was my opportunity to see firsthand the impact of our work and to play a small part in welcoming a new family to our community. 

I reached out to Kaitlyn, our Volunteer and Community Engagement Associate, who explained that the Refugee Resettlement Case Manager had called on Monday about needing an apartment ready for the family's arrival on Tuesday at 12:30 PM. Understanding the urgency, Kaitlyn had quickly put together a list of items and gathered what she could from the warehouse early that morning. 

Kaitlyn picked me up from our office after finishing the prep work at the warehouse, and we headed to the apartment. There, I met one of our newest volunteers, Adesola, a local nurse who had been helping Kaitlyn all morning. Adesola, new to Sacramento, joined Opening Doors as a volunteer to find meaningful ways to spend her days off. 

Upon arriving at the apartment, we found the door locked and the key missing from the lockbox. The plumber and electrician working on the home had taken the key with them to lunch. Undeterred, we used the 30-minute wait to unload the U-Haul van and organize everything, making the most of our time. Once inside, we set to work setting up the home. 

We placed beautiful toshaks, traditional Afghan floor cushions, in the bedrooms and living room, arranged a couch and TV, and unpacked supplies for the kitchen and bathroom. Despite the rush, we aimed to create a welcoming and comfortable space for the family, knowing they were arriving the very next day. 

Setting up the home was a profoundly rewarding experience. I learned how valuable donations are—even something as simple as a box of toothbrushes can make a significant difference. Every item we placed had a purpose, contributing to making the apartment feel like a home. By the time we finished and returned the remaining supplies to the warehouse, the temperature had soared to over 100 degrees. I was blown away by the commitment of Adesola, who tirelessly helped Kaitlyn from morning until we were done. 

Reflecting on the day, I realized how essential our work is in providing families with a safe and comfortable space when they arrive in Sacramento. This experience was just a glimpse into the broad range of services offered at Opening Doors. From assisting with legal services and employment opportunities to providing education and healthcare access, our programs support newcomers in every aspect of their journey. 

Seeing the tangible impact of our efforts reinforced the importance of what we do at Opening Doors. It's about more than just setting up an apartment—it's about creating a foundation for stability, self-sufficiency, and belonging for each family we serve. The dedication and compassion of our team and volunteers make this possible, and I'm grateful to be part of such a vital mission. 

Upon their arrival at the apartment, we learned from the case manager that the family was pleased to find all their essential needs met. Beds, furnishings, and other necessary items were already in place, thanks to the generosity and support of our community. This made their transition smooth and stress-free, allowing them to focus on settling in and beginning their new chapter. 

Now, the family is settling into their new life in Sacramento, exploring their neighborhood, and getting acquainted with the local community. They are optimistic about the future and deeply appreciative of their warm reception. 

Are you looking to help out? Visit our Welcome Kits page or our volunteer page.