The Bay WaveIn the heart of New York State, Abu Zafar Mahmood, a stalwart Bangladeshi American and freedom fighter, emerges as a beacon of compassion and commitment. He was the Mountain Battalion Commander in the 1971 War of Independence of Bangladesh and was posted in Chittagong Hill Tracts. As the visionary founder and chairman of Bangla CDPAP and Alegra Home Care, Mahmood as devoted over fifteen years to providing unwavering support and care to the sick and elderly, treating them with the warmth and consideration one reserves for family.
His journey in the realm of essential humanitarian services has been a testament to resilience, marked by an unyielding dedication despite grappling with numerous challenges. In an extensive interview with The New York Editorial, Mahmood not only sheds light on his work and organizations but also delves into his current initiative: a robust campaign to safeguard the continuity of Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) services. Thisendeavor unfolds against the backdrop of evolving regulations and mounting challenges, underscoring Mahmood’s unshakeable commitment to the well- being of New York’s most vulnerable residents. As Mahmood passionately explains, CDPAP, or Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program, symbolizes an embodiment of American civilization, transcending the borders of New York State to resonate across the entire nation. He articulates the essence of the program, emphasizing the universal human need for care and service, particularly prevalent among the elderly and seriously ill.
In Mahmood’s view, the beauty of American civilization lies in the provision of care by the state and government to those in need. He reflects on the social nature of human beings, highlighting the integral role of the family in providing care, drawing parallels to the familial care received during childhood. Mahmood takes pride in being the first Bengali-speaking individual in New York to pioneer CDPAP services, commemorating the initiation of their journey with the training of the inaugural batch of home health aides in Jackson Heights. With a deep sense of pride and commitment, Mahmood’s mission unfolds as a narrative of empowerment, shaping the landscape of home care services and safeguarding the well-being of those who rely on the compassionate touch of Bangla CDPAP and Alegra Home Care in New York State. In the vibrant tapestry of New York State, Abu Zafar Mahmood’s journey with the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) unfolds as a narrative woven with cultural appreciation, patriotism, and a profound commitment to humanity. As the visionary founder and chairmanof Bangla CDPAP and Alegra Home Care, Mahmood’s story is not merely a business venture but a testament to love, community, and the unique blend of heritage and American values.
Mahmood’s foray into CDPAP was sparked by a deep understanding of the cultural diversity within the Bangladeshi community. Acknowledging the prevalence of Bengali speakers among trainees, he sought to bridge the gap between their rich traditions and the American way of life. For Mahmood, being a proud American citizen meant embracing the best aspects of ancestral cultures, and enriching the nation with the beauty and goodness of diverse heritages. His sense of responsibility and leadership in America stems from a dual patriotism, honoring both his birth country and the United States. Mahmood firmly believes that Bangladeshi immigrants, with their deep sense of patriotism, contribute significantly to American society.
This conviction fuels his commitment to being a responsible and civilized citizen, inspiring others in the Bangladeshi community to follow a similar path. Mahmood’s involvement in home care, particularly with CDPAP, is rooted in the belief that family members are best suited to care for their own. Witnessing the transformative impact of CDPAP policies, he emphasizes the importance of responsible citizenship and attributes the success to the support of the American government and his faith.
For over a decade, Mahmood has dedicated himself wholeheartedly to this work, foregoing other professional opportunities. His commitment has become a beacon, inspiring others within the Bangladeshi community to seek his guidance and contribute to the shared journey with CDPAP, emphasizing the significance of community support and cultural understanding. When asked about the integration of love and humanity into his services, Mahmood highlights the misconception that only family members can provide care. He passionately advocates for training individuals from arious circles – family members, neighbors, and community members – to ensure quality care for those in need. His institution, now with nine branches throughout New York State, focuses on educating and empowering individuals to not only provide care but also pass on their knowledge to others.
Reflecting on his birthplace in Bangladesh, Mahmood shares memories of growing up in Sandwip, an island by the Bay of Bengal. The frequent floodsand tidal waves shaped his early understanding of humanity, as he participated in rescuing people swept away by natural disasters. The consciousness to stand by the oppressed was further solidified during the liberation war in 1971, where Mahmood served as the Mountain Battalion Commander. His experiences in the war instilled a deep sense of humanity, earning him the Global Ambassador for Peace Award from the United Nations voluntary organizations. Today, they continue to call on him to extend his humanitarian work to different countries worldwide, a testament to the enduring spirit of compassion that Mahmood carries within him.
Amid the intricate workings of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), Abu Zafar Mahmood, a dedicated advocate for humanitarian causes, reflects on the program’s significance and the challenges it faces. In a candid dialogue, Mahmood sheds light on the crucial role CDPAP plays in compensating caregivers, the hurdles encountered, and the looming threat posed by recent regulatory changes. Under the umbrella of the CDPAP program, family members serve as caregivers, a dual role that restricts them from seeking employment elsewhere. Mahmood emphasizes the inherent need for income and survival in this scenario. In the American system, family members, spanning generations, are financially compensated for their caregiving services. Those delivering assistance are termed Personal Assistants (PAs), while the recipients belong to the same family, forming a symbiotic relationship within the program. Navigating the intricate landscape of humanitarian work, Mahmood draws attention to the adversities encountered. Comparing the colossal power of big corporations in the business world to massive aquatic animals in the sea, Mahmood highlights the lack of a comparable platform for the general public. He underscores the disconnect between voters and legislators, expressing frustration at voting for unfamiliar figures who often prioritize corporate interests over community needs.
Mahmood brings into focus the recent rule changes that pose a severe threat to CDPAP program-providing organizations
in New York State. He points out the unfairness and improper implementation of rules, citing the issuance of notices to 217 agencies to cease operations. With nine branches under his organization, Mahmood vividly illustrates the potential impacton staff, service recipients, and the broader community. He emphasizes the need for representatives to recognize the dual role they play – elected by both corporate money and the votes of the general public.
In a plea to representatives, Mahmood calls for introspection on the consequences of their actions. He underscores the potential suffering that will arise if CDPAP services are curtailed, affecting thousands of families across diverse communities in New York State. Expressing a desire for representatives to be seen as “good and civilized people,” Mahmood urges them to consider the profound impact their decisions may have on the well-being of countless individuals and families. As a person deeply immersed in CDPAP services, Mahmood takes proactive steps to initiate a conversation and address the critical situation at hand. His narrative is not just a plea for the preservation of essential services but a call to uphold the principles of compassion, understanding, and responsible governance.
In the midst of an impending challenge to the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), Abu Zafar Mahmood, a tenacious advocate, outlines his strategy to confront the situation. Engaging in a comprehensive discussion, Mahmood elaborates on the measures taken, the growing awareness among the public, and the solidarity emerging in response to potential changes in the program.
Prepared to face the threat head-on, Mahmood discloses his hiring of lawyers and lobbyists to navigate the complex legal landscape. Recently engaging with the deputy leader of the New York Senate and scheduling numerous appointments with leaders and politicians across the city and state, Mahmood stresses the importance of this issue in the eyes of those he’s spoken to so far. Observing the rising awareness among voters and the general public, Mahmood emphasizes that this movement is not confined to political discussions alone. He seeks to raise awareness among the people, ensuring they understand the potential impact of the proposed changes. Astonished by certain rules set forth, he points out discrepancies, revealing a critical need to delve into the core of the problem.
Addressing the profit-driven aspect of his agency, Mahmood underscores a more profound impact— the provision of income to staff across multiple branches, serving hundreds of families. In his plea to elected officials, he invokes the inevitability of aging and the need for such essential services, urging them to consider the consequences if denied such care in their vulnerable years. Highlighting the disparity between large corporations and small local agencies, Mahmood contends that new rules favor the former and are oppressive to the latter, emphasizing the unique needs of local communities. In a democratic reminder, he urges elected representatives to consider the impact of their decisions on the very people who elect them.
With momentum building, Mahmood reports the participation of 46 agencies, several assemblymen, and senators in this movement. The responses are encouraging, indicating a collective effort. Despite some agencies feeling disheartened and contemplating withdrawal, Mahmood remains steadfast, driven by a sense of responsibility to those affected.
Engaging a lobbyist, Mahmood is optimistic about progress, with scheduled meetings and an impending major session with elected representatives. Service recipients, integral to the cause, are actively participating, ensuring their needs are understood and considered in the ongoing conversations.
As the challenges to CDPAP services persist, Mahmood’s message to the wider community echoes one of unity and perseverance. He emphasizes the need for collective action, encouraging everyone to stay informed, get involved, and raise their voice in support of preserving vital services that uphold the dignity and quality of life for the elderly and disabled.
In a call to action, Mahmood reminds the community that today’s advocacy for the rights of others may become a shared need tomorrow, underscoring the value of care and compassion accessible to all.
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