Our Mission

The mission of the Arab American Association of New York is to support and empower the Arab Immigrant and Arab American community by helping them adjust to their new home and become active members of society. Our aim is for families to achieve the ultimate goals of independence, productivity, and stability.

Our History

The Arab American Association of New York (AAANY) was founded in 2001 by prominent and active members of the Arab­ American and Arab immigrant community to respond to the needs of low-income, recent Arab immigrants in NYC. AAANY formed not even a month before the attacks of September 11th, 2001, as a one-­room social service agency run entirely by volunteers. After 9/11, AAANY stepped into an advocacy role, recognizing that the onslaught of surveillance tactics, hate crimes, and community isolation would not be solved by direct services alone.

Our Community

Dr. Ahmad Jaber Way Street Naming Ceremony (JULY 27, 2024)

In a heartwarming street naming ceremony, the Bay Ridge community paid tribute to a remarkable individual whose journey from humble beginnings to esteemed accomplishments has left an indelible mark on the neighborhood. The ceremonial naming of the intersection of 5th Avenue and Ovington Avenue to Dr. Ahmad Jaber Way was not only a celebration of one man's triumph over adversity but a recognition of his unwavering commitment to uplifting and empowering the immigrant community in Bay Ridge and beyond.

Dr. Jaber's story embodies the epitome of the immigrant success narrative. He arrived in this country from Palestine in 1975 with little more than a dream and determination. Here, he embarked on a journey that would see him rise from humble beginnings to establish a thriving medical practice. But his aspirations extended far beyond personal financial gains. Dr. Jaber's heart was firmly rooted in the community he came to call home, and his dedication to uplifting newly arrived immigrants was evident from the outset.

As the co-founder of the Arab American Association of New York (AAANY) in 2001, Dr. Jaber significantly improved the lives of countless immigrants. Initially, a small, volunteer-run agency supporting low-income Arab immigrants in NYC, we expanded after 9/11 to advocate against surveillance, hate crimes, and community isolation. Through his work with numerous mosques, community organizations, and institutions, Dr. Jaber provided medical care, education, social services, and immigration support to immigrants from all over the world. His commitment to community empowerment and well-being helped us thrive, and we remain a vital non-profit today, showcasing his enduring impact.

"This ceremony is deeply personal for me, as Dr. Jaber was not only a friend and partner but also my brother. As the President of the Arab American Association of New York, he made a huge impact on countless lives, and I was privileged to serve as Vice President alongside him. Naming this street after him is our way of honoring his legacy and all the positive changes he brought to our community." - Habib Joudeh, Board President, Arab American Association of New York

“Dr. Ahmad Jaber was an extraordinary human being and a visionary leader for Bay Ridge, and his impact on our community reverberates far beyond this amazing neighborhood. From the humble beginnings of a small OB/GYN clinic (and yes, he did bring a couple of my siblings into the world), he founded AAANY, transforming it into a cornerstone of support and care for all who enter its doors. His calm and measured approach to this vital work has been a guiding light for me in my time as ED of AAANY. I’m blessed to have known and worked with him for many years, and though I miss his physical presence, I feel him near us every single day. Naming this street in his honor is a testament to his enduring legacy and the countless lives he touched and continues to touch.” - Marwa Janini, Executive Director, Arab American Association of New York

The naming ceremony, at 5th Avenue and Ovington on July 27, 2024, was attended by community leaders, public servants, and individuals touched by Dr. Jaber's legacy. Executive Director of AAANY, Marwa Janini, offered a poignant reflection on Dr. Jaber's contributions. Councilmember Justin Brannan also addressed the gathering, underscoring the profound impact of his work.

“Dr. J was exactly the kind of person you would hope to see become a local legend: deeply good, compassionate, and determined to help others. We are very lucky that, after arriving in New York in 1974, Dr. J built his legacy here in Bay Ridge. We still benefit today from the great work of AAANY, through which Dr. J’s legacy lives on. I am honored to play a part in immortalizing his name for members of our community both present and future. His wisdom warm, his impact limitless, his name eternal.” - Councilmember Justin Brannan

Other attendees included Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, State Senators Iwen Chu and Andrew Gounardes, Councilmembers Alexa Avilés, Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes, faith leaders, community members, and the friends and family of Dr. Ahmad Jaber.

"Dr. Ahmad Jaber’s compassion and generosity have left a profound legacy. From his founding roles in organizations like the Arab American Association of New York and the National Arab-American Medical Association to his unwavering support for people of all backgrounds, Dr. Jaber's life was a testament to service and dedication. As a personal friend, he brought warmth and kindness into countless lives. Dr. Jaber's support for Maimonides Medical Center exemplified his commitment to the betterment of all. The naming of a street in his honor stands as a fitting commemoration of his remarkable life, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations." - Douglas Jablon, Executive Vice President of Community Relations & Special Assistant to the President, Maimonides Health

"Dr. Ahmad Jaber was a beloved medical doctor and activist who fought for what he believed in and served his community. As founder of The Arab American Association of New York, he was dedicated to helping others by providing education, medical care, and immigration support to the Arab and Muslim communities, and any New Yorker in need of assistance. He was a great leader who had a positive impact on the city by strengthening and uniting individuals, and he will be missed. By lifting up his name over a street in the community he loved, we commemorate his impact and ensure that his legacy continues to live on for generations." - Public Advocate Jumaane Williams

As Bay Ridge takes this momentous step to honor Dr. Jaber, his legacy continues to flourish, resonating in the lives he transformed and the community he helped shape. Dr. Ahmad Jaber Way stands as a beacon of hope, an emblem of immigrant success, and a reminder of the extraordinary potential that can be achieved through dedication, perseverance, and a profound love for the community.

In line with Dr. Jaber's spirit of progress and community betterment, AAANY has embarked on a new phase of growth. We have recently relocated to a new office and launched a groundbreaking workforce development program. This initiative not only connects immigrants to high-paying jobs, including within the medical sector but also provides job-related training. We have also opened three new satellite branches to expand its reach and impact.