“In Iraq, deaf people were not treated equally,” said Saad Aldulaimi. “It was frustrating. There was no education, no jobs, no communication. We felt forgotten.” 

After spending time in Turkey during their resettlement process, the family eventually made it to the United States and were connected with People Inc.’s Deaf Access Services program. It was there that they met David Wantuck and Andrea Russell, two advocates who would come to mean the world to them. 

“David and Andrea helped us with everything,” said Saif Aldulaimi. “Finding jobs, getting driver’s licenses, teaching us ASL (American Sign Language). They made us feel like we belong.” 

Since coming to America and working with People Inc., their lives have changed tremendously in all facets of life. Today, the family members are employed at several major companies across Buffalo, including Amazon, Wegmans, Home Depot, TruMold, and the Hampton Inn. Some also work game days at the Buffalo Bills stadium through Delaware North. 

“I used to think people like me couldn't work,” Saad shared. “But here, I am treated equally. I can earn money and support myself. That never happened before.” 

Language access has been a key part of their journey. “Before, we only had basic signs. We couldn’t read or write,” Maher Aldulaimi explained. “Now, we take ASL classes every week. David and Andrea explain things so clearly. We’ve learned so much.” 

Learning American Sign Language has opened new doors, helping the family navigate everything from employment to health care. They are also beginning to learn English, with support from People Inc. staff who help translate texts and explain written communication. 

“We didn’t know how to read or write back home,” said Israa Aldulaimi. “School stopped at six or seven years old. But here, we’re learning every day.” 

One of their proudest achievements is earning their driver’s licenses. “It took time, but we studied and passed,” said Saad. “Now we have freedom. We can get to work, go to appointments. It’s changed everything.” 

When asked what advice they’d give to other deaf families arriving in Buffalo, they answered without hesitation: “Come to Deaf Access Services. 100 percent. They will listen. They will help. You will be seen.” 

“Everything is amazing here,” Saif added. “We are safe. We are working. We are learning. We finally have a future.”