SOMALI AMERICAN SOCIAL SERVICE ASSOCIATION (SASSA)
Non-Profit Spotlight
Q: What’s an interesting fact about SASSA that most people don’t know? A : People often ask how we handle the pressure when things get tough, and the truth is that our community has always looked to us as a safe harbor during crises. Whether it was navigating the uncertainty of the pandemic or helping families respond to sudden legal shifts and external pressures, we became the place people turned to when they did not know where else to go. We have stood by families during periods when they felt vulnerable, providing them with the clear, honest information they needed to protect their households and stay together. While we are often over capacity because of this, the most important thing to know about us is that our community sees SASSA as family. They know that when they walk through our doors, they are going to be treated with dignity and pointed in the right direction, no matter what they are facing.
Q: Please share a highlight of how your organization has impacted the region. A : Our biggest achievement is the transition from a small, volunteer-based group to a fully functioning social service hub. We now have a dedicated staff, a strong board, and key partnerships that allow us to address a wide range of needs. Being able to act as a centralized resource center means that when someone in our community is struggling, they don't have to navigate a fragmented system alone. We have become a reliable, first-stop resource that helps families establish a firm foundation in the region. A : Our small business program is growing rapidly, and we invite the local business community to join us in this effort. We work directly with entrepreneurs to improve their business capacity, financial health, and operational outlook. By collaborating with local financial institutions, we help provide personalized business advice. We also look for partners to support our youth programs, whether through mentorship, internships, or by helping us provide financial literacy courses that prepare our young people for future career and entrepreneurship goals. Q: How can the business community become involved in the important work SASSA does?
AUGUST 2026 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 17
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