Flying High:

Donna Miller’s Day with the Mojave Afghan Community

By Debra Holm

Donna Miller’s winning bid at SFA Chapter 78’s Medal of Honor Luncheon’s Live Auction for the ACL Afghan Community “Fund-a-Need” auction item didn’t just lead to an exciting adventure; it became a heartwarming journey of cultural exchange and community support.

The control tower at Mojave Air and Space Port

The jet containing Donna Miller’s group lands and comes to a stop on the runway.

Geri Long waives as she is the first to exit the jet.

Donna Miller exits into the windy desert.

Nimo Aslami, Project Manager of Refugee Housing, welcomes Donna.

A private jet for six carried Miller, her daughters, granddaughters, and good friend Geri Long to the Mojave Air and Space Port. There, they were met by Nimo Aslami, Project Manager of Refugee Housing, and Masood Farzan, Community Manager. Together, they embarked on a special trip to the Santiago Estate of Mojave, a community bustling with new beginnings for Afghan families resettled by the non-profit Affordable Community Living.

Masood Farzan, Community Manager, greets guest at the Community Room at the park in Mojave.

Nazia and Lubna organized the luncheon and were also on hand to greet the guests.

Donna Miller with Geri Long and family.

A traditional Afghan seating area complete with rug and cushions.

The delicious buffet prepared by the women of the community was made up of traditional Afghan dishes.

Lubna assists Richard Simonian as he fills his plate.

Donna and her family enjoying lunch.

Donna enjoyed learning about the community from Nazia and Lubna.

Some of the children from the community came by after lunch for some fun and games.

Warmth and hospitality awaited them at the community center, where Nazia and Lubna were waiting to greet visitors. Several women from the community had worked together to prepare a mouthwatering feast. The spread included Kabuli Pulao, Afghanistan’s national dish, along with Chicken Curry, Mantu, and Beef Qurma—a delightful symphony of flavors.

But the true highlight came after lunch. The group was greeted by the community’s children, their laughter and joy filling the air as they engaged in games and activities. Later, a tour revealed the remarkable transformation underway. Roads recently repaved by the men in the community showcased the hard work of the men who have learned valuable skills in pre-manufactured home rehabilitation.

Another street repaved by the Afghan community members. The artificial turf at each of the homes was also installed by the Afghan team.

A street recently repaved by the Afghan workers in the community.

Many of the Afghan refugees live in the homes on this street, which were all rehabilitated by the men of the community.

Some of the children from the community came by after lunch for some fun and games.

The plans for the future are ambitious—adding additional units to the existing property to accommodate more families, creating a larger park for the children, and potentially doubling the park’s size. As word about this project has spread, there is great interest, and it has resulted in a long waiting list. 

With summer approaching, Miller’s winning bid couldn’t have come at a better time. It will directly contribute to acquiring essential supplies for the ACL Afghan Community’s vital 2024 summer youth program.

Donna Miller and family back at the airport at the end of the day.

Donna Miller’s adventure went beyond a private jet and a delicious meal. It became a testament to community, cultural understanding, and those who rebuilt their lives.