Our Name

The meaning of Pol-e-Omid (Bridge of Hope)

The name Pol-e-Omid, meaning Bridge of Hope, was chosen with deep intention and reflection. It embodies the journey of Afghan immigrants and refugees who, forced to flee the brutal regime of the Taliban, found themselves uprooted, displaced, and scattered across the world, many seeking safety, and others simply trying to survive.

For those who arrive in the United States, the search for a new beginning is not just about finding shelter—it is about reclaiming dignity, belonging, and a sense of home. Yet, in this search, there lingers a quiet fear: the fear of losing one's cultural identity, of erasing the rich heritage left behind, of fading into the background of an unfamiliar society.

Pol-e-Omid is the bridge between these worlds—a bridge connecting Afghan stories and resilience with the broader human narrative. It is a space where the beauty, wisdom, and strength of Afghan culture are not only preserved but celebrated. Here, we honor our roots, even as we build new futures.

This organization exists to connect people to people, cultures to cultures, and hearts to hearts. It tells the true story of Afghanistan—a story not just of war and displacement, but of courage, creativity, and deep humanity that the news rarely shows.

Our vision is to cultivate peace and prosperity through connection, healing, and shared understanding. Pol-e-Omid is more than a name—it is a promise: to build bridges where there were once walls, to create belonging where there was once isolation, and to illuminate the rich tapestry of Afghan heritage in a world that desperately needs hope.