About MIRA
Rooted in Community. Driven by Dignity.
Middle Eastern Immigrant and Refugee Alliance (MIRA) is a community-led nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting immigrant and refugee families through culturally responsive services, advocacy, and partnerships.
Founded by community members, MIRA was built to address real gaps faced by families navigating immigration systems, economic hardship, trauma, and displacement.
OUR MISSION
Middle Eastern Immigrant and Refugee Alliance (MIRA) empowers immigrant and refugee families by providing culturally responsive services, trusted guidance, and community-centered support that promotes safety, stability, and long-term opportunity.
Vision Statement
We envision a future where all immigrant and refugee families live with dignity, security, and a true sense of belonging.
How We Work
Our work is grounded in lived experience, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care. We partner with families, not systems, and design services that reflect real community needs.
Our History
A Community-Led Organization Built to Meet Real Needs
MIRA was founded by community members to address service gaps faced by immigrant and refugee families navigating displacement, trauma, and complex systems.
Our journey began in 2009 with the foundation of the organization, marking the start of an impactful timeline of growth and innovation. Served in the beginning SIVs from Iraq until we started expanding to serve every.
Get to Know Us
Who We Are
MIRA is a community-led nonprofit serving immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and mixed-status families across Chicago’s North Side and surrounding suburbs.
Our multilingual staff reflect the communities we serve and bring deep cultural knowledge, professional expertise, and lived experience to their work.
What Makes Us Different
- Community-rooted and immigrant-led
- Multilingual and culturally responsive
- Trauma-informed and survivor-centered
- Holistic services under one roof
- Trusted by families, partners, and funders
Leadership & Governance
MIRA is guided by a committed Board of Directors who provide fiduciary oversight, strategic leadership, and community accountability.
Our board members bring experience in nonprofit leadership, law, finance, public service, healthcare, and community advocacy.
Board Members
Zinah Kadhim
Board Chair
Vice Chair
Thaer Al Hasnawi
Treasurer
Secretary
Roula Amire
Board Member
Mandy Terc
Board Member
Members of Our Team
Mariam Mroueh
Executive Director
Othman Al Ani
Deputy Director
Muna Korel
Senior CM
Halah Aldulaimi
CM
Saja Al Obaidi
CM
Narges Panahi
Afghan CM
Dalya Alani
DOJ
Carin Petyo
Staff Attorney
Supported by
Our Funders & Partners
MIRA is proud to be supported by public agencies, foundations, corporate partners, and community institutions committed to equity and opportunity for immigrant and refugee families.
Public & Government Partners
Federal, state, and local agencies
Foundations & Philanthropy
Private and community foundations
Corporate & Financial Partners
Businesses and CRA-aligned institutions
Community Partners
Nonprofits, schools, libraries, and faith-based organizations