As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reflecting on the incredible stories of resilience and transformation made possible through your support. 
This year, our upcoming holiday appeal highlights two remarkable young men, MZ and Abdul, whose journey serves as a powerful reminder of the difference you can make with your donations to United Way.
MZ and Abdul first met a few years ago at the Teen Resource Centre in Saint John. They quickly bonded over shared experiences of hardship and hope. Both had immigrated to Canada as teenagers, seeking refuge and stability after their lives were uprooted by conflict.
For MZ, the path here began after he and his family fled war-torn Syria. His family moved constantly, making it difficult for him to form lasting friendships or feel a sense of home.
Abdul’s story is different but equally poignant. Having spent most of his childhood in the United Arab Emirates, Abdul’s yearly visits to his extended family in Syria were a highlight – until the war forced those connections to stop.
When both young men arrived in Canada, they faced the daunting challenge of adjusting to a new culture, language, and life far from everything they had known.
It was at the Teen Resource Centre that their lives began to change.
Supported by United Way donors, the centre offered MZ and Abdul a community where they felt seen, supported, and valued. They were surrounded by mentors who encouraged them and peers who became lifelong friends. The centre provided academic support, volunteer opportunities, and, most importantly, a sense of belonging.
Today, MZ and Abdul are thriving.
This fall, they both began their studies at the University of New Brunswick, embarking on journeys toward careers in the medical field. MZ dreams of becoming an anesthesiologist, while Abdul aspires to specialize in cardiology. Their dedication to their studies is matched only by their ambition to give back to their community – a community that embraced them in their time of need.
Outside of school, MZ and Abdul are pursuing their passions and finding ways to connect. MZ recently joined the Canadian Army Reserves, an experience he describes as both challenging and rewarding. Meanwhile, Abdul is gaining valuable experience in his part-time job at an optical store. Together, they’ve even started a small business with friends, creating custom rugs – a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and drive.
MZ and Abdul credit the Teen Resource Centre with providing the support and stability they needed to succeed.
“The centre has been our go-to place whenever we need assistance,” they shared. “It not only helped us navigate resettlement but also gave us a true sense of belonging in this community. For that, we say thank you.”
Their story is just one example of how your donations transform lives. Last year alone, your generosity supported 67 life-changing programs that helped more than 9,500 people in our community. These programs provide critical resources to those experiencing poverty, homelessness, and social isolation, ensuring that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
As we prepare to send out our holiday appeal, I encourage you to think about the impact you can make. Your gift to the United Way is more than a donation – it’s an investment in hope, opportunity, and community. It ensures that vulnerable people in our communities have a chance at a brighter future.
You don’t have to wait to receive the direct appeal to make your impact ahead of the holidays. You can go to the donate page of our website at any time.
Let’s come together to support our neighbours and strengthen the communities we all call home. Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we truly are stronger.
With gratitude,
Alexya Heelis
Senior Executive Director
Central and Southwestern New Brunswick
United Way Maritimes