Muhammed
Meet Muhammed Mohammed, the thoughtful, gentle man from Sudan with words of wisdom and hope. He has lived in Cleveland since moving to the United States five and a half years ago and originally connected with BHITC through classes at The Hope Center (THC). In fact, Muhammed was the very first student to attend THC’s Adult Basic Education (ABE) class about two years ago, which he still attends today!
“At The Hope Center, they are helping everyone who comes here. The teachers are so nice and everyone is smiling. It is hard to move to a new country; there is a lot to overcome. The Hope Center is a fascinating idea, and they are doing a great job helping people and giving people a chance to discover themselves,” says Muhammed.
Over the summer, Muhammed joined the team at Common Threads, assisting with donation pickups and transporting goods between the now two store locations in Fairview Park and also Brook Park. Above and beyond his strong work ethic and desire to grow his own personal skills, he exudes wisdom around his new role anyone can learn from.
“Some countries are not wise enough to recycle goods. People in this country strive to use things wisely. The way I see Common Threads is that not only is it a great experience for self-growth, but there is a lot of teamwork. There is an open sharing of ideas. Whether our roles are small or big, we work together and help each other for the better. They have a vision and a good message,” says Muhammed.
He may love the work and community he’s found at THC and Common Threads, but what does a Sudanese man think of Cleveland?! He shares, “This area is a blessing. It is a place someone would love to live. Cleveland is a quiet city with a good environment. I enjoy it greatly, especially living by the water.”
Muhammed has a wonderful heart, peaceful demeanor and big dreams for the future. Through classes at The Center, he is pursuing his citizenship and GED. His personal dreams include starting a business, maybe in the field of transportation, and also providing support in his home country through clean and renewable energy.
“When Muhammed first began attending the Adult Basic Education class, he asked me how to get his GED,” says Eileen Wilson, BHITC’s Director of Refugee Ministries. “I drew him a picture explaining this class is the bridge to cross over the river from one piece of land to another. He still carries it around with him to this day.”
Muhammed concludes with, “We have to be a light and leave the rest to God.” We couldn’t agree more. The next time you are at The Center, be sure to look for Muhammed and introduce yourself. He would love to say hello and offer a warm smile!
Looking for ways to connect with Common Threads this fall and winter season? Here are ways you can help!
Collection Drives! Organize a one-time or recurring collection drive at your church, business, with your book club or in your neighborhood. The store is looking for partners to offer ongoing collection drives and will assist with storage options, promotional materials and pick-ups, when possible. Email donations@commonthreadsthrift.com for more information.
Volunteer! Bring your friends and family members or just yourself – both stores have one-time and ongoing volunteer needs. Email Mary Jo Mitchell, Common Threads’ Volunteer Coordinator for more information at maryjo@commonthreadsthrift.com.
Donate to SocksPLUS! Common Threads in Fairview Park is the official collection site for Community West Foundation’s SocksPLUS initiative. Because socks are the number one requested item by the homeless, each year and especially approaching the cold weather months, the Foundation and its partners collect donations of socks and other essentials to distribute to local shelters through the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH). Visit socksplus.org for more details and a full list of items needed.
Note: Please clearly label all items intended for SocksPLUS for easy sorting and ensuring your donations are used as intended.