Ebenezer Se, president of the United Liberian Association in North Dakota, told the Human Rights Commission on July 17 that the Liberian community — which he described as the state’s largest immigrant group — is seeking $50,000 to establish a community center in the Fargo–Moorhead area. “This center will be a cornerstone for culture enrichment, education initiative, social engagement,” Se said.

Se said the group plans two events in July to raise funds and public awareness: an indoor Liberian Independence Day program on July 19 and a soccer fundraiser on July 26 at Moorhead High School; proceeds from the July 26 game will go to the community‑center project. Project lead Hafiz Sano described how a center would reduce the burden on family members who currently help newly arrived relatives navigate Social Security, driver’s‑license and other appointments. “We are here today, and every contribution, every proceed from the game on Saturday, July 26 will be going to you and towards our community project,” he said.

Speakers described planned services: computer access and digital help for job and benefits applications, assistance with immigration paperwork, resume building and soft‑skills training, mentoring and after‑school sports programs that organizers say have reduced youth involvement in crime in some neighborhoods. Se said the center would be open to Liberians and other African communities in the Fargo–Moorhead area and would help coordinate calendars among Liberian organizations so events do not conflict.

Se appealed to city, state and federal officials, as well as nonprofits and human‑rights organizations, to consider financial or in‑kind support. Commissioners thanked the presenters and encouraged them to engage city staff and to share flyers and contact information; commission members also encouraged attendance at the July 26 fundraiser so commissioners could experience the community’s culture firsthand.