Community Stories

The Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) has nearly 100 programs that strive to assist, improve and empower people in the community locally and nationally. These stories highlight ACCESS programs in the community and across the country, as well as clients who are positively impacted by the organization. Nonprofit groups and media outlets are welcome to reprint these stories with attribution and/or to link to these pages. If you have questions, please contact the ACCESS Communications Department at 313-842-5128.

 

Officials cut ribbon on innovative ACCESS Recovery Center

ARC ribbon cutting

ACCESS celebrated a major milestone with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new ACCESS Recovery Center (ARC) in Dearborn, a nearly 53,000-square-foot, three-story facility set to open in phases in early 2027. Designed to transform behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment in Southeast Michigan, ARC will provide comprehensive, culturally responsive care, including residential treatment, crisis stabilization, outpatient services and wraparound support—all under one roof. Guided by a “No Wrong Door” philosophy, the center aims to remove barriers to treatment and provide individuals and families with compassionate, coordinated pathways to recovery. The ceremony also featured a special tribute to outgoing ACCESS President and CEO Maha Freij, with the announcement of the Maha Freij Community Garden, Dar Al-Sakina (“House of Tranquility”), honoring her 35 years of leadership and dedication to community well-being.

ACCESS Announces New President & CEO Leadership Transition

ACCESS announced the retirement of President & CEO Maha Freij after more than 35 years of service and the appointment of longtime Chief Operating Officer Lina Hourani-Harajli as her successor, effective October 1, 2026. Freij’s visionary leadership helped transform ACCESS into the nation’s largest and most comprehensive Arab American nonprofit, expanding its programs, national institutions, and community impact. With more than 25 years at ACCESS, Hourani-Harajli brings extensive leadership experience and a commitment to innovation and organizational excellence. Freij will continue serving as a Strategic Advisor, ensuring a smooth transition as ACCESS enters its next chapter of service and growth.