By Samihah Vaid, TMA AmeriCorps VISTA Member
This year’s MLK Day of Service was a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together to serve. As an AmeriCorps VISTA member with Homes Not Borders (HNB) through Transform Mid-Atlantic (TMA), I’ve had the opportunity to support refugee resettlement efforts in the Washington, D.C. region. But there was something particularly special about this day.
Despite the bitter cold and the many other events happening locally, it was heartwarming to see so many community members show up, eager to serve and welcome their new neighbors. With the support of our friends from Accenture, we jumped right into action, loading up beds, kitchen supplies, décor, and other essentials for two families—one of eleven and another of three—who were about to move into their new homes in Silver Spring, MD.
Our well-coordinated team of volunteers packed everything into four different cars and our moving truck, making record time. As we gathered for a group photo before heading out, I was struck by a bittersweet realization—due to upcoming changes in resettlement patterns, this would be the last large-scale service day with HNB for quite some time. That moment reminded me to truly appreciate the impact of what we were doing.
"After unloading and arranging household items, one family graciously invited us
to join them for tea and snacks."
The apartment setups went smoothly, thanks to the abundance of volunteers and the support of the families we were assisting. After unloading and arranging household items, one family graciously invited us to join them for tea and snacks. Their hospitality and kindness were overwhelming. They brewed their finest tea and served delicious snacks to share with us—a small but beautiful act of generosity that reminded me how welcoming and resilient our new neighbors are.
One of the most memorable moments of the day involved Sidra, a young girl from one of the families. The second she spotted the box of toys we had brought along, she was captivated. I noticed her struggling to untie the knot on the bag, so I stepped in to help. The moment the bag was open, she eagerly pulled me aside, ready to play.
For the next hour, we built an entire city out of magnetic tiles, cooked imaginary meals in a play kitchen, and solved wooden puzzles together. Although she didn’t speak a word of English, nor I a word of Farsi, she chattered away with enthusiasm. Her laughter was infectious, and it reminded me that connection transcends language.
Since 2022, Transform Mid-Atlantic has partnered with Homes Not Borders through its AmeriCorps VISTA program, strengthening efforts to support refugee families as they rebuild their lives in the U.S. As a VISTA member, I have had the privilege of working alongside HNB staff to coordinate volunteer efforts, secure essential resources, and build capacity for long-term sustainability.
Through this partnership, AmeriCorps members have played a vital role in expanding HNB’s impact—ensuring that families receive not just a place to live, but a true sense of home and b
elonging. TMA’s commitment to civic and community engagement aligns deeply with this mission, proving that national service can be a catalyst for lasting and meaningful change.
During my time as an AmeriCorps VISTA, I’ve participated in many home setups, but none quite like this. As I reflect on that day, I am deeply moved by the resilience and generosity of the families we served and the unwavering commitment of our volunteers. This experience was a powerful testament to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy—a reminder that service is about building bridges, fostering connection, and uplifting communities.
And as we navigate recent changes in refugee resettlement, I carry with me the memories, lessons, and connections formed through service days like these. They serve as a reminder that even in challenging times, our collective efforts can foster hope, build community, and create meaningful change.