Khalid Herez

Khalid Herez is a dedicated community leader and social services coordinator whose 17-year career exemplifies RICA’s commitment to holistic support and empowerment for refugee and immigrant communities. With extensive experience spanning three countries and multiple humanitarian organizations, Khalid brings deep cultural understanding and practical expertise to serving vulnerable populations navigating complex resettlement challenges.

Khalid’s professional foundation was built through comprehensive work with prominent international organizations, including the International Rescue Committee, Save the Children, and the International Catholic Migration Commission in Jordan, where he provided direct family outreach services to refugee populations. His hands-on approach included conducting home visits to assess family needs, coordinating healthcare access, facilitating school enrollment for children, and providing essential supplies, embodying RICA’s holistic support framework that addresses interconnected challenges.

From 2017 to 2022, Khalid served as Social Services Coordinator and Property Manager at Worcester Islamic Center, where he implemented culturally responsive programs that supported refugee integration into the Worcester community. His comprehensive services included transportation coordination, assistance with Social Security and welfare applications, banking support, and community engagement programming, demonstrating his commitment to addressing practical and social integration needs.

Khalid’s educational background uniquely positions him to serve diverse populations with cultural sensitivity and religious understanding. He holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Baghdad and a master’s degree in Uloom Al Quran (Islamic Studies) from the World Islamic Sciences & Education University in Jordan. His specialized religious certifications, including Ijaza Qiraat credentials, enable him to provide spiritual guidance alongside practical support services.

Khalid has demonstrated expertise in community outreach, family support coordination, and cross- cultural communication throughout his career. His experience as both an educator in Iraq and a business owner has developed his skills in program development, resource management, and community relationship building. These capabilities allow him to effectively bridge newcomer families and the complex systems they must navigate.

Currently volunteering with various refugee assistance organizations in Worcester, Khalid continues to empower immigrant communities through education, advocacy, and direct service provision. His multilingual abilities and deep understanding of Middle Eastern cultures and American systems position him as a vital resource for families seeking to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.

Khalid’s dedication to serving society’s most vulnerable members reflects RICA’s vision of creating inclusive communities where refugees and immigrants can heal, grow, and contribute to a more equitable society.