Safi Mans: U.S. Citizen (origin: Sierra Leone) – victim to the travails of “notorio fraud,” a significant hurdle to legal immigration into the U.S.
“I was devastated from the death of my brother and sister-in-law during the 2014 Ebola Epidemic and adopted their four minor daughters. For three years I experienced one immigration hurdle after another to bring my daughters to join our family in the U.S. During that time, the oldest of my daughters was placed in a different category making her process difficult and lengthy. Identifying with my frustration a colleague introduced me to ACISS, Inc. With ACISS’ intervention, in less than a year the U.S. Embassy in Sierra Leone processed my three younger daughters’ immigration to the U.S. with the Embassy’s legal staff describing ACISS’ submission ‘a work of professionalism rarely seen.’”
I Zep: Lawful Permanent Resident (origin: Liberia) – domestic abuse victim with an ego
“I am a male that was in a marriage where my wife was physical with me on a regular basis. The correction authorities intervened a few times, but I needed intervention for it to stop! I heard about ACISS from family sources and reached out. I was amazed that their initial response was not money or the legal process – rather treatment. I was in a different state from their office, but ACISS’ staff navigated the system to secure Christian counseling (my preference) for me. I did not want to go through the counseling process. I felt embarrassed talking about it as a male, but my first session changed my attitude, and I am so glad I went through with it! I encourage any male that has been or is going through the same situation to call ACISS and get counseling because it does help talking to a licensed therapist. I was also able to self-petition as a result. ACISS processed my application and now I am eligible for citizenship!”
JEC: US Citizen (origin: Guatemala) – “I must have been one of the first clients. The processing of my relative petition (sibling) was endless and when I finally got the approval my brother’s family dynamics had changed, and the required supporting documents were confusing. The ACISS Team accepted my case and was thorough in obtaining legal documents – guiding every step of the way. We had a noticeably short window of time, but their diligence and hard work made it possible. I am happy with their service that is highly recommendable!”
Tchi B: U.S. Citizen (origin: Togo) – “I met ACISS’ Executive Director (Nancy T Burphy) via my hair braiding services. Learning about ACISS, Inc. during light conversation, I felt compelled to share my most painful domestic abuse victimization as I could not survive its extremities. ACISS provided both legal and therapeutic services on a pro-bono basis! At the time I was a conditional resident and had no access to my paperwork or the status of it. Today I am a U.S. Citizen and have completed the first manuscript of my book, ‘… a pathway from brokenness to wholesomeness.’ Without ACISS’ care, concern and professionalism I could never have become an overcomer.”
(excerpts from conversation: The ACISS Team) STAG: Asylee (origin: Liberia) – “In 2021 we met this client who provided credible evidence of torture and fear, and we decided to process his asylum application during a period when asylum processing times were vastly extended. Within four months USCIS scheduled his interview and approved his application. This client continues to refer the community to ACISS, as he awaits the immigration of his family.”
Augustus Bodah, Jr: U.S. Citizen (origin: USA) – “I am offering my highest praise, endorsement, and deepest gratitude for The ACISS Team. Finding ACISS was a true blessing from God. After a grueling four-year battle to reunite with my wife from Liberia, ACISS achieved a successful outcome! Before learning about ACISS, I dangled among prominent law firms that either refused to take my case or flatly gave up, leaving us hopeless. Our situation was burdened by an incredibly tight timeline and immense pressure. Where others saw impossible roadblocks, The ACISS Team embarked on a mission! Their lawyers and executive director possess a rare combination of flawless legal expertise and a spirit of stoic vigilance. They consistently remained a step ahead of the complex immigration process, anticipating every hurdle before it arrived. Their ethics truly set them apart where they do not simply manage a legal file; but provide profound compassion along with their passion, unwavering emotional support, and spiritual guidance – especially when I needed it most. The power of God and my faith brought ACISS into my life. The dedication and heart they pour into their clients is a rare find that money simply cannot buy. Because of the team’s brilliant contribution to my case, my wife is finally here in America, and our family is whole. We will avidly support ACISS forever, and with utmost respect and endless gratitude.”
A Heart of Gratitude:
The ACISS Team includes a professional team with remarkable dedication! During our ten-year period of operation there have been extended periods of minimum resources resulting in the staff relinquishing their compensations. They remained, and continued to provide our services with passion, dedication, and excellence. Our Finance Director, Program Director, Grants Team Lead, Office Assistant, License Clinical Social Workers, and Licensed Graduate Therapist served the program and clients with unusual diligence – and they make us tell our stories. Thank you – thank you!
