International Service Center (ISC) Ambassadors:  Zahra Sultani, Ivanna Mozil

Event Date:  September 7, 2025
Event Location:  Pine Street Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg, PA

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, representatives from the International Service Center (ISC), Zahra Sultani and Ivanna Mozil, had the honor of visiting Pine Street Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg. This visit was an important opportunity to share ISC’s mission, highlight the range of services available to refugees and immigrants, and emphasize the critical role that volunteers play in supporting newcomers as they rebuild their lives.

A Welcoming and Engaged Community. Following the morning worship service, nearly 50 attendees gathered to explore a variety of booths highlighting Pine Street’s ministries and community programs. Among the five service booths presented were:

• Pine Street Book Club
• Music & Arts Maps around the church area
• Welcome Home Sunday Mission Committee
• International Service Center (ISC)
• Fellowship and hospitality displays, including homemade cookies and cakes prepared by church members

The warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by thoughtful decorations and delicious baked goods, encouraged meaningful conversations and connections between community members and local service organizations. The ISC booth was beautifully decorated by Becky Cotich, a dedicated Pine Street and ISC volunteer. The display featured: ISC program flyers, ISC mission, Language Bank service information, volunteer activity handouts, and traditional Afghan and Ukrainian cookies, symbolizing the cultures and traditions of those we serve.

Church members were eager to learn more about ISC’s mission, particularly how recent federal funding cuts impact refugee programs. Attendees expressed compassion and strong support for ISC’s work. As a direct outcome of these conversations, six community members volunteered to assist refugees with critical needs, such as accessing ESL classes and transportation support—two of the most pressing challenges newcomers face.

The ISC ambassadors were warmly received by Pastor Rev. Stuart Seelman, along with church leaders, staff, and members. The spirit of hospitality and collaboration was evident throughout the day. This event demonstrated the power of partnerships between faith communities and nonprofit organizations in creating pathways for refugees and immigrants to thrive.

The visit to Pine Street Presbyterian Church was both successful and inspiring. ISC ambassadors made valuable connections with potential volunteers and strengthened ties with the broader Harrisburg community. Events like these remind us that, together—with compassion, unity, and service—we can help newcomers adapt, find belonging, and contribute positively to their new home.

ISC extends heartfelt gratitude to Pine Street Presbyterian Church for their generosity, warm welcome, and commitment to serving others.