The Minnesota Department of Human Services honored ten refugees for making a difference in their communities. Among them, Hani Haybe, founder of Street Soccer Twin Cities. Haybe a Somali Refugee,
was homeless and played for SSUSA Minneapolis. She now leads the program and has received this honor from the state of Minnesota for her work with SSUSA.
“People who come to the United States as refugees endure great hardship in order to realize their hopes for a better life for themselves and their families,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “I’m so pleased to acknowledge the achievements of these individuals who have done so much to unify Minnesota and make our state a better place to live.”
Haybe received the Civic Engagement Award. This award recognizes individuals who make their communities stronger through civic engagement. Apart from being the founder of Street Soccer Twin Cities, Haybe is also a nurse at Hennepin Healthcare. She has a passion for soccer, but her greater passion is for helping youth. Haybe’s league provides positive social interaction for immigrant youth without the barriers of league fees, uniforms.
“This program ‘Street Soccer Twin Cites’ has had a positive impact on youth in the community, we have created a network of support systems and a deep genuine relationship with the community to affect positive growth.”Haybe said. “Street Soccer Twin Cities has been around delivering programs for almost eight years.”
The program started in 2011 with a goal to build self-esteem for youth and helps them and their families connect to education and life-skills programs if needed.
“We feel very honored by receiving this award from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, this recognition is a reflection of the important work that we, Street Soccer Twin Cities do on a daily basis in our own state of Minnesota, its not easy but the reward is helping to shape a better community and society,” Haybe said.
Above, see a video of Hani from PBS Minnesota.