Living the American Dream

Occupations:   Majid:  Language instructor / Maryam: Bonds insurance clerk

Majid and Maryam, a young couple living in Liverpool, NY, applied to VESID after both were injured on the job.  In addition to his orthopedic injury, Majid was diagnosed with a slow progressive neurological disorder.  These circumstances led to Majid and Maryam’s unemployment, the need to file Workers Compensation claims, and numerous doctor appointments, all with no insurance or income. 

For Majid, VESID provided counseling, guidance, and placement assistance, and he was able to secure employment as a Language Instructor at Ft. Drum U.S. Army Base.  He is responsible for teaching his Iranian language, culture and customs to U.S. Soldiers who will be going to Iraq, and  Afghanistan.  Majid is well liked by officials at Ft. Drum, and he loves his job.

VESID also provided counseling, guidance, and placement services to Maryam, which enabled her to secure a job at an insurance bonds company.  With no experience in an office setting, the employer agreed to hire her using a VESID service, On-the-Job Training, (wage reimbursement) program.  After 5 months Maryam received an increase in pay due to her progress.  She, too, is well-liked at her job, and is being cross-trained in different departments.  The employer has committed to continue Maryam’s employment after the completion of the On-the-Job Training.

Majid came to the U.S. from Iran as a refugee under religious and political asylum.  Maryam came from Afghanistan as a refugee of war.  With VESID’s assistance, they now both have stable jobs with substantial incomes and medical benefits.  They have both gone through the naturalization process and have become U.S. Citizens.  They own their own home and two new cars, and they are the proud parents of a 3 year old daughter.  Majid and Maryam are truly living the “American Dream”.

Barry Tatters, Regional Marketing Representative
Syracuse District Office