About Us.

Mission and Vision.

Massachusetts Afghan Alliance (MAA) supports Afghan families in Massachusetts by providing essential resources, advocating for refugee rights, and mobilizing volunteers to help them rebuild their lives.

By 2026, the Massachusetts Afghan Alliance’s vision is to redefine the support system for Afghan allies in Massachusetts, consolidating resources, fostering a nurturing environment that cultivates resilience in Afghan families and volunteers, and amplifying their voices, empowering them to rebuild their lives with dignity and joy.

Beyond the First Hello.

Resettling in a new country is a journey that goes far beyond the initial welcome. The Massachusetts Afghan Alliance (MAA) is committed to providing support to arriving Afghan allies by connecting them with local resources and support networks.

When first arriving, the appeal of a familiar warm meal—a token of home and comfort—can make all the difference. MAA has provided more than 24 grocery deliveries, allowing families to relax and enjoy nourishing meals in their new homes. Additionally, MAA and dedicated volunteers have supplied rugs and blankets for families to gather and unwind together after their long journeys to the United States.

MAA strives to create a sense of belonging for all. Our Eid celebrations have brought together dozens of Afghan allies and their new neighbors to share in the joy of cultural traditions. These events are a time for allies to celebrate their heritage, and they also create an opportunity for everyone to learn about each other, fostering mutual understanding and connection.

By creating welcoming spaces for gathering, sharing meals, and participating in cultural activities, we are building a community where our allies can feel at home and form lasting relationships. Afghan families and volunteers, and amplifying their voices, empowering them to rebuild their lives with dignity and joy.

Afghan Reunification.

In the chaos of the fall of Kabul in August 2021, thousands of Afghan families were separated. Many still wait in Afghanistan, where they live each day in fear and with evolving threats. These families, displaced and divided, want to rebuild and find stability. Reunification is more than paperwork; it’s an urgent matter of restoring security and belonging, enabling families to move forward together in safety.

Resettling in the U.S. is only part of the journey for the hundreds of Afghans in Massachusetts. True stability and rebuilding remain out of reach when loved ones are left behind in uncertain and precarious situations in Afghanistan or nearby countries. Keeping families together is foundational to U.S. values, and after decades of U.S.-Afghan partnership, it’s critical that the government prioritize accessible, effective family reunification pathways. Expanding existing options and improving processes like the DS-4317 will help bring Afghan families together more swiftly and safely.

What We Do.

Resource Network

Connecting Afghan families to housing, healthcare, and education.

Community-Led Empowerment

Amplifying Afghan voices in partnership for advocacy efforts and building out direct services to support self-sufficiency and leadership.

Welcome New Families

Offering meaningful ways for our community to get involved through mentorship, donation drives, and other volunteer opportunities.

Our Service Areas.

Currently providing support and services to Essex, Middlesex, and Worcester counties.

Our Organization.

The Massachusetts Afghan Alliance (MAA) leadership represents a diverse and empathetic team that supports Afghan allies and those through Massachusetts those who support them.

We are a people-focused team first, dedicated to activating kindness to others first. We will remain committed to maintaining dignity for those we serve, our Afghan families, and our volunteer communities.

Community of Volunteers

The Massachusetts Afghan Alliance (MAA) is committed to supporting volunteers and the crucial roles they play in assisting Afghan allies during their resettlement journey. By providing mentorship, logistical support, and organizing community events, our volunteers make a significant impact on the lives of those we serve.

To sustain this vital work, volunteers also need support. By getting involved as a volunteer or supporter, you can help ensure that MAA continues to provide essential resources and opportunities for Afghan allies to thrive in their new home, while also offering dedicated support and community for our volunteers. Together, we can foster a stronger community for everyone.

MAA Leadership.

John Moses

Co-Founder

Mass Afghan Alliance Farishta Shams

Farishta Shams

Co-Founder

Mass Afghan Alliance Jason Chandonnet

Jason Chandonnet

Chief Technology Officer

  • Co-Founder

    John, a retired Army veteran with three overseas tours, including Afghanistan, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role. Following the fall of Kabul in 2021, his involvement in the evacuation effort working directly with families and individuals seeking to leave Afghanistan deepened his commitment to supporting volunteers and families in his community. With more than 20 years of experience in the tech industry, John is also a partner in a startup company. In his neighborhood, he is serving his eighth year on the Chelmsford School Committee, where he is the senior member. John was also an esteemed Hoover Veteran Fellow.

  • Co-Founder

    Farishta, originally from Afghanistan, has dedicated her career to empowering communities. With nine years of experience working on USAID projects, she specialized in women’s business development and agricultural initiatives in Afghanistan, fostering opportunities and growth in her homeland. Now serving as a community services manager at the International Institute of New England in Lowell, Farishta carries forward her dedication to supporting refugees from around the world as they rebuild their lives.

  • Chief Technology Officer

    Jason is a seasoned engineer, architect, and leader with 23 years of experience. Specializing in medical technology and human capital management, he is committed to delivering solutions that prioritize quality and safety. In addition to his professional work, Jason serves on several boards and volunteers for nonprofits, underscoring his dedication to social responsibility. His technical expertise and passion for humanitarian causes make him a dedicated innovator at the intersection of technology and community impact.