
OUR TEAM

SARAH CADY
Chief Executive Officer
Sarah Cady, LICSW, brings 24 years of experience working with foreign-born populations in the education, health, and refugee resettlement sectors. She has served as a refugee case manager, job developer, and director of programs at both national and local levels. Prior to joining REACT DC, she was the Executive Director of the Refugee and Immigrant Services Department at Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), overseeing large-scale employment and initial resettlement programs for refugees, SIVs, and Afghan and Ukrainian parolees. She also opened and directed the LIRS Alexandria Field Office, which resettled over 1,400 Afghan allies after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan.
Sarah is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in DC and Virginia and speaks French. When she is not working, you can find her chasing her 10-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter. She is an avid reader and enjoys riding her bike, practicing yoga, running, and gardening.
Directors

Senior Programs Consultant
ALLISON AGOGLIA
Allison lived the life of a military brat and grew up all over the U.S. and abroad. That sense of never staying in one place for too long, learning about different cultures, and exploring new locations through travel sparked her desire to work overseas and with diverse populations. She has worked with several NGOs around the world to provide assistance to women and children, improve access to education, and deliver lessons on women’s health. She previously worked in a refugee resettlement office and assisted with their women’s and cultural orientation programs.
Allison believes in a boots-on-the-ground approach—interacting directly with families, building relationships, learning people’s stories, and making personal connections that drive her to keep going. She approaches situations with empathy, compassion, a willingness to listen, and grit, enabling her to support and empower those she works with. Allison attended James Madison University, where she studied International Affairs with a concentration in Africa and a minor in French.

Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Program Manager
Director of Community Integration
ALLY BROWN
Ally is a military spouse, family advocate, and substitute teacher in Arlington, Virginia. During her many years of activism, she shaped and developed policy for the Virginia Department of Education as part of the Military Child Education Coalition and was selected for U.S. Senator Tim Kaine's Military Family Roundtable, which informed the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee on various issues affecting military families. Ally previously spent 11 years as a software engineer in the telecommunications industry.
As a mother of three—including two children with special needs—and a survivor of 14 military moves, Ally knows firsthand how to be resilient, resourceful, and ready. She is a passionate advocate for both refugee and military families and has experience engaging public officials and senior organizational leaders, particularly on issues related to families with special needs.

REACTlegal Supervising Attorney
JESSICA CEDILLO, Esq.
Jessica Cedillo, a seasoned immigration attorney based in Rockville, Maryland, brings over a decade of experience advocating for her clients’ rights and navigating the complexities of immigration law. As the owner of the Law Office of Jessica Cedillo, LLC, she serves as a dedicated solo practitioner, representing individuals before the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and immigration courts. She offers expert counsel on relief eligibility and diligently prepares and files various applications, including asylum, family petitions, and naturalization.
With prior roles in local non-profits and private practice, Jessica has honed her expertise in diverse immigration matters, managing complex caseloads and conducting impactful community outreach initiatives. Holding a Juris Doctor from American University Washington College of Law and fluent in Spanish, she remains committed to serving her clients’ needs with compassion and professionalism, leveraging her legal acumen to guide them through their immigration journey.

REACTlegal Director
SAFIULLAH DELAWAR
Safiullah Delawar is a highly accomplished professional with over 13 years of experience in government and nonprofit organizations. Previously serving as an asylum specialist at REACT DC, he holds master’s degrees in International Relations and Political Science. His career highlights include roles as Project Manager – Activity Coordinator at Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), Diplomat – Economic Counselor and Consul at the Embassy of Afghanistan in Washington, D.C., and Foreign Policy Coordinator at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Afghanistan. With a strong commitment to human rights and international conventions, he has also served as Director of Reporting to International Conventions. Through his diverse expertise, linguistic proficiency, and dedication to public service, Mr. Delawar continues to make a positive impact in his field and in the lives of those he supports.

Director of Preferred Communities - Case Management
ZARMINA HAMIDI
Zarmina Hamidi is the Director of the Preferred Communities (PC) Program at REACT DC, where she leads intensive case management for vulnerable refugee populations. A former refugee herself, resettled in 1988, Zarmina grew up in Arlington, Virginia, and brings lived experience to her mission-driven leadership. She earned her bachelor’s degree from George Mason University and has been actively volunteering since her high school years, supporting diverse populations across the D.C. metro area.
Since the Afghanistan evacuations in 2021, she has worked in refugee resettlement with organizations including Global Refuge and Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), focusing on trauma-informed care and long-term support for high-needs clients. While at Global Refuge, Zarmina championed refugee storytelling as a tool for community engagement and mobilization, participating in local events organized by groups such as KAMA DC and Story District to amplify refugee voices and foster public understanding.
At REACT DC, she continues to build volunteer networks and community partnerships that expand wraparound services and promote belonging. Through the Preferred Communities Program, Zarmina integrates these efforts into a holistic model of support—one that centers dignity, resilience, and long-term self-sufficiency for those rebuilding their lives in the United States.

Director of Development and Communications
DEVON McCUAN
Devon McCuan is a former U.S. Army Signal Officer, dedicated military spouse, and mother of three. With experience spanning three continents and numerous U.S. locations, she brings a global perspective and a strong commitment to fostering inclusive, resilient communities. Since transitioning from active duty in 2010, Devon has continued to serve both military and civilian communities through extensive volunteer leadership. She has supported multiple Army units, family readiness programs, and spouse organizations across the United States and Europe, strengthening networks of collaboration and mutual support.
Devon is known for her strategic mindset, adaptability, and ability to bring energy and cohesion to diverse teams. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, optimism, and a deep belief in the power of connection to drive meaningful impact. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Politics from George Mason University, reflecting her dedication to understanding and engaging with complex global and organizational systems.

Director of Preferred Communities - Clinical Services
ERIKA PHILIP, LCPC
Erika Philip, LCPC, serves as the Clinical Director for REACT DC, where she is leading the development of a mental health clinic to serve the organization’s most vulnerable clients.
With over two decades of experience in trauma recovery and community development, Erika has lived and worked in Rwanda and Uganda, and has worked extensively in Ethiopia, supporting communities impacted by war, trafficking, displacement, and complex trauma. In the U.S., her work has focused on urban immigrant and refugee communities, addressing human trafficking, forced migration, abuse, and the effects of violence and substance exposure. She also spent more than a decade in refugee resettlement, providing counseling and capacity-building for individuals and families rebuilding their lives after displacement.
Erika holds a bachelor’s degree in International Studies and a graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling. Her therapeutic approach integrates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), family systems, and community-based trauma frameworks to support healing within culturally diverse contexts. A seasoned cross-cultural trauma therapist, Erika is committed to advancing equitable, accessible, and culturally responsive mental health care for those who have experienced profound adversity and marginalization.

REACTlegal Supervising Attorney
ALISON TABOR, Esq.
reactlegal@reactdc.org
Alison Tabor is a dedicated attorney with a compassionate approach to advocacy and a firm commitment to effecting positive change. With a passion for defending human rights and supporting marginalized communities, Alison's journey in advocacy stems from a heartfelt desire to assist those in need. Her impactful work with Afghan evacuees began at the Operation Allies Welcome legal clinic in Ft. McCoy, Wisconsin, in 2021, where she led special initiatives to support the 13,000 Afghan guests.
After Ft. McCoy, she collaborated to create, develop, and facilitate pro se asylum workshops for hundreds of Afghan parolees. Alison's representation spans various immigration processes, including affirmative asylum cases with USCIS and defensive asylum cases at immigration courts. She firmly believes in compassionately guiding clients through the complex immigration system and working to ensure access to justice for all. Alison champions the right of every individual to humane treatment, striving to collaboratively drive positive change and foster a more equitable world.
Staff

REACTlegal Program Manager
LIMA HOTAK
Lima Hotek was born in 1993 in Kabul, Afghanistan, and grew up in a family that valued open-mindedness and education. After completing high school in 2013, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Law. In 2019, Lima immigrated to the United States and began her career as a linguist and interpreter, contributing her expertise to organizations such as Mackellar Corporation and Mission Essential.
In addition to her linguistic roles, Lima gained experience working with the legal team at Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area. She is also an active member of the Afghan American Women Association (AAWA), where she volunteers her time to support the community. As an immigrant woman living independently, she is deeply committed to supporting her community and promoting social welfare. Lima is fluent in multiple languages, including Dari/Farsi, Pashto, English, and Urdu, enabling her to communicate effectively and bridge cultural gaps.

Office of New Americans Legal Program Manager
KHALID MASSOUDI
Mr. Mohammad Khalid Massoudi is an experienced legal specialist with a background in legislative, judicial, and rule-of-law initiatives. He has worked as a lawyer in Afghanistan, representing local and international clients on a wide range of legal matters, and has contributed to projects focused on access to justice, legal reform, and support for vulnerable communities.
Since 2023, Mr. Massoudi has served as Legal Specialist and Legal Program Manager at REACT DC, Inc., assisting Afghans with immigration-related matters and providing guidance to individuals navigating complex legal processes. He has also contributed to projects with organizations such as the United Nations Development Program, the World Justice Project, and other initiatives promoting rule of law and good governance.
Mr. Massoudi is fluent in Dari, Pashto, and English. He is committed to supporting communities through access to justice and legal aid services.

REACTlegal Program Manager
PAIGHAM AHMAD ROSHAN
Paigham A. Roshan is a versatile professional passionate about serving immigrant communities and advancing social justice initiatives. With a background spanning refugee resettlement, legal affairs, information technology, and aviation management, Roshan brings a wealth of experience to every endeavor. Having held multifaceted positions such as Application Specialist, Legal Team Member, and Aircrew/Standardization Officer, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional case management, legal support, and operational leadership skills.
Fluent in Pashto, Dari, English, and Urdu, Roshan facilitates communication and cultural understanding across diverse environments. With a steadfast dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, he is deeply committed to leveraging his diverse skill set and experiences to serve organizations devoted to aiding immigrants, fostering inclusivity, and advancing societal well-being.
Ahmad Tamim Ahmadi "Tamim"
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Intake Coordinator
Freshta Ansari
REACTlegal Specialist
Ahmad Fawad Azizi
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Employment Coordinator
Asma Bandawal
Women's Empowerment Program Childminder
Maiwand Basiri
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Employment Coordinator
Amanullah Chamkani
REACTlegal Specialist
Katy Coleman
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Employment Coordinator
Mansoora Daryabie
Virginia Refugee Student Achievement Project (VRSAP) Coordinator
Joseph Flynn
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Training Specialist
Omid Kamal
REACTlegal Specialist
Frozan Massoudi
Women's Empowerment Program Digital Literacy Instructor
Javed Naseer-Ahmed
Mentoring Youth in Virginia (MYVA) Coordinator
Mohammad Zareef Nizami
REACTlegal Specialist
Humeira O'Mary
Women's Empowerment Program Childminder
Nasira Oraal
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Intake Coordinator
Ana Pavlovic
Virginia Refugee Student Achievement Project (VRSAP) Coordinator
Atiqullah Rahimi
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Interpreter/Translator, Employment Coordinator
Tammy Ross
Mentoring Youth in Virginia (MYVA) Coordinator
Mirza Rafat
REACTlegal Senior Legal Specialist
Hosay Sadat
Preferred Communities Program Coordinator
Nesibe Sevim
REACT DC Administrative Assistant
Hasib Satary
Virginia Refugee Student Achievement Project (VRSAP) Coordinator
Hayatullah Sherzad
Reception and Placement (R&P) Coordinator
Shoaib Khan Shinwari
REACTlegal Specialist
Sora Studa
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Business Liaison
Oliver Subasinghe
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Employment Coordinator
Mansora Sultani
Women's Empowerment Program Sewing Workshop Instructor
Zeynep Timmester
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Employment Coordinator
Zohra Veedy
Refugee Support Services Employment Program (RSSEP) Case Manager/Employment Specialist
Samina Yousofi
Women's Empowerment Program English Language Instructor
Board of Directors
AMY MARDEN
Founder | Board Chair Emeritus
Amy has dedicated thirteen years to giving voice and agency to at-risk and transitional populations. She served six years as a resource and referral liaison for the U.S. Navy, both domestically and in Japan, where she worked with military families facing reintegration challenges after multiple tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and at sea. Following the Afghanistan evacuations, Amy founded REACT DC to assist Afghan allies with their resettlement. She currently serves as Chairman of the Board of that organization, which supports over 800 Afghan and Ukrainian newcomers per month.
Amy is a practicing attorney and former federal law clerk for the Northern District of Florida, where she assessed the validity of prisoners’ “last rights” appeals. She is also the author of The Parts We Lost, which she published on the eve of the final evacuation flight out of HKIA.


Founding Member | Interim President, Board of Directors
JOSH BURGESS
Josh is a social entrepreneur passionate about creating regenerative solutions to the Earth’s most pressing challenges. He previously served 25 years in the United States Air Force as a special operations advisor, pilot, and international affairs expert. Through his deployments in Afghanistan, Josh gained deep insight into Afghan culture and is committed to empowering Afghan allies to build successful futures in the United States.

Treasurer, Board of Directors
PAUL KIEKHAEFER
Paul is a community builder passionate about driving action at the intersection of the public, private, and social sectors. He works as a Delivery Leader for Delivery Associates, helping governments and social impact organizations deliver improved outcomes. He previously worked in management consulting at Alvarez & Marsal, where he assisted state governments in managing operational crises and addressing financial challenges.
Paul believes it is the duty of those with much to help those with less, particularly in welcoming refugees. He brings direct experience as a member of a Sponsor Circle that helped settle an Afghan couple in Northern Virginia in 2022, with REACT DC serving as the fiscal sponsor.

Secretary, Board of Directors
LISA MADDOX
Lisa served 15 years as an intelligence officer for the federal government. Her work included war zone assignments, including one in Afghanistan. An expert in Middle East and South Asia security issues, Lisa developed a deep commitment to Afghan-related issues and stepped up during the August 2021 fall of Kabul to support fleeing families. Lisa’s expertise and insights have been featured in recent New York Times articles and a Showtime documentary entitled The Longest War. Now a small business owner in the field of family history and genealogy, Lisa continues to support newly arrived Afghan allies, helping them adjust and thrive.

Board of Directors
JAFAR HUSSAINI
Jafar Hussaini is a meticulous and detail-oriented financial professional with a rich background spanning auditing, budgeting, reporting, and taxation. With a sharp focus on accuracy and compliance, he has adeptly handled complex individual income tax returns and spearheaded the implementation of robust financial controls across various organizations.
Holding pivotal roles such as Accounting Officer for the Office of the Chief Financial Officer in D.C., Hussaini has demonstrated exemplary leadership in driving strategic financial initiatives while ensuring transparency and accountability. In his previous positions as Director of Financial Analysis, Comptroller, and Director of Finance & Accounting, he demonstrated exceptional proficiency in managing global finances, optimizing payroll systems, and refining accounting protocols.
With a keen eye for detail, Hussaini navigated intricate financial landscapes and regulatory requirements with finesse. He has spearheaded numerous audits with an unwavering commitment to GAAP standards while implementing a resilient internal control structure. His innovative approach to financial operations has bolstered fiscal effectiveness and transparency, marking significant advancements in organizational accountability.
Armed with an Executive MBA in Accounting/Finance from George Washington University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Hunter College, Hussaini brings a unique blend of financial expertise and strategic insight to every endeavor. Recently accredited as an Enrolled Agent—the highest credential awarded by the IRS—he is poised to offer expert guidance and representation in navigating the complexities of tax law, further solidifying his role as a trusted advisor and leader in the financial arena.

Board of Directors
Join REACT DC's Board of Directors
Shape the Future of Refugee Support!
Are you passionate about empowering refugees and making a lasting impact in the community? Do you have the leadership, vision, and dedication to help guide a growing organization in its mission to support newcomers? REACT DC is seeking dynamic individuals to join our Board of Directors and help steer our efforts to provide vital services to refugees and immigrant families.
About REACT DC
Founded by veterans and military spouses, REACT DC is dedicated to supporting refugees and newcomers as they integrate into American society. We provide a wide range of services, including legal assistance, job placement, education, and women’s empowerment programs. Our goal is to help individuals and families build successful, self-sufficient lives in their new communities.
Why Join the Board?
As a member of the Board of Directors, you will:
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Lead Strategic Growth: Play a key role in shaping the future direction of REACT DC, helping us expand our programs and outreach.
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Champion Our Mission: Advocate for refugee rights and influence policies that affect the lives of displaced people.
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Leverage Your Expertise: Utilize your professional skills to contribute to areas such as fundraising, program development, community partnerships, or governance.
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Make a Tangible Difference: Help ensure that refugees receive the resources they need to thrive in their new homes.
What We're Looking For
We are seeking board members with diverse backgrounds and skill sets, particularly in:
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Nonprofit Leadership
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Finance & Fundraising
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Legal & Advocacy
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Community Relations
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Corporate Partnerships
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Immigrant and Refugee Services
Candidates should be committed to REACT DC's mission and able to dedicate time for quarterly board meetings and occasional committee work.
How to Apply
Interested in joining a team that’s making a meaningful impact? We would love to hear from you! To learn more or to apply, please email us at info@reactdc.org.
Help us make a difference—together, we can build brighter futures for refugees and their families!
Key Volunteers
Molly Sepulvado
Founding Member
Caroline Lavin
Summer Intern 2022
Sofia Joucovsky
Summer Intern 2023
Amy Zheng
UMD Impact Intern Summer 2024
Kelly Smith
Founding Member
Public Relations Manager
Caroline Bello
Founding Member
Tomoko Kawasumi
Founding Member
Betsy Keenan
Founding Member
Tomoko Kawasumi
Founding Member
Kim Lundberg
Founding Member
Kim Mestre
Founding Member
Yannie Chang
REACTwomen/VRSAP/MYVA
Katy Coleman
REACTwomen/VRSAP/MYVA
Sebghatullah Ahmad Alizai
RSSEP