CRIS 30th Anniversary Story | Zarak

In his home country of Afghanistan, Zarak and several of his family members supported community development through their work with USAID. When the Taliban returned to power, this connection to U.S.-funded programs made them targets. Zarak, his wife, and their young daughter, who was born with complex medical needs, were forced into hiding as they awaited a chance to flee to safety. During that uncertain time, their son was born.

In 2023, the family of four arrived safely in the United States. One of Zarak’s first priorities was getting medical care for his daughter. He worked closely with CRIS’ Health & Wellness Program Manager, Cat Gossman, to begin navigating the U.S. healthcare system—a challenge for any parent, and especially for one in a new country. In those early months, he focused on getting his children settled, arranging medical appointments and therapies, and making a new home for his family—all with continued support from CRIS.

“When I have knowledge and a plan,” he explains, “that reduces the stress I feel in life. Moving to America, I knew I would need a plan for building a life here and ensuring that my kids can grow up in safety.”

When he heard about an open case manager position at another local immigrant and refugee services agency, Zarak applied. He was hired and now works with families who are beginning the same journey he once started.

“Helping others is so important,” he shares. “It’s what I want to do.”

Although he and his family have only been in Columbus for a short time, Zarak says it already feels like home. “We know this is our permanent home.”