ARWA Community Development Center

OUR STORY

The Legacy of Queen Arwa

We chose our name in honor of Queen Arwa bint Ahmad, a remarkable Yemeni queen who led with wisdom and strength more than 900 years ago. Known for advancing education and community development, her legacy reflects the very values we uphold today. At ARWA, we don’t just provide services; we carry forward a 900-year-old tradition of leadership and compassion.

ARWA stands for the four pillars of our work: Awareness, Resilience, Wellness, and Advocacy.

ARWA Community Development Center was incorporated in New York in October 2025. We serve the Yemeni and broader Arab-American immigrant community of Staten Island’s North Shore and beyond, with programs offered in both Arabic and English.

MISSION & VISION

Our Mission

Empowering individuals & families through education, leadership, and advocacy.

The Community Development Center is dedicated to strengthening families and communities by providing comprehensive programs and services that promote education, economic opportunity, health, and social well-being. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every individual has the resources to thrive and contribute to the collective growth of the community.

Our Vision

We envision a vibrant, resilient, and empowered community where families are strong, opportunities are accessible, and individuals of all backgrounds work together to build a future of dignity, equity, and shared prosperity.

Our Goals

Strengthen Families: Provide programs and services that promote family stability, positive parenting, and youth development.
Advance Education & Workforce Development: Deliver educational opportunities, training, and mentorship to prepare community members for academic achievement and meaningful careers.
Promote Health and Wellness: Support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of families through accessible health resources, awareness, and partnerships.
Foster Community Engagement: Encourage civic participation, cultural enrichment, and volunteerism that build unity and pride within the community.
Support Economic Empowerment: Enhance financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities to help families achieve long-term self-sufficiency.

Our Partnership Model

As a hybrid and virtual center, we work hand-in-hand with community partners and local organizations to host events where they are needed most.

NYPD officer with a young community member at an ARWA community recognition event

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Our Commitment

ARWA does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability.

ARWA Community Development Center is the public name of ARWA Community Center Together We Rise, Inc., a New York not-for-profit corporation (EIN 41-2478585). Our application for federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status is pending with the IRS.