Hero Story

Zaman is a nonprofit organization that epitomizes what it means to put people first and help our neighbors. It works to empower marginalized women to pursue the education and skills they need to earn stable income and lift their families out of poverty. Zaman's Hope For Humanity Center is truly one of the most inspiring places I have ever entered. From the outside it looks more like an industrial warehouse, but inside it is packed with activities, programming and resources to help women and families from some of the poorest communities in Michigan. It has everything under one roof to help these resilient women move beyond crisis to sustainability -- from basic necessities to education and vocational training to onsite employment. It has a food pantry, resale shop, professional bakery, industrial sewing center, literacy center and health clinic onsite.

But what makes Zaman elite -- is that it puts people at the center of everything it does. It recognizes the humanity and dignity in every person and the importance of using our time and resources to help our neighbors in need. It builds around the individual women's strengths and goals to provide what they need to thrive. While Zaman has specialized experience in immigrant and refugee populations, its doors are open to any women or children in need.

In total, Zaman has helped more than 540,000 people in Southeast Michigan and more than 5 million around the world. As Zaman approaches its 30th anniversary it's fitting that they be recognized as the heroes they are.