Dinnegan-Rafiq Family

“My daughter, Aaliyah, has developed a caring and more empathetic nature because of Honeycomb,” says mom Modaser Rafiq. 

It was 2017 when Modaser, her husband Michael Dinnegan and their daughter joined the Honeycomb Family. Modaser heard about a forest preserve clean-up project from another Honeycomb volunteer and quickly signed up. Modaser and Michael volunteered as youth, so giving back to their community was a priority to their young children (Aaliyah, age 7 and Noah, age 5).

“Aaliyah likes to do anything outdoors or with baking,” mom says.  “Cleaning up a park or making cookies at Ronald McDonald House was so enjoyable to do together. We were putting smiles on the faces of others and could see the difference we made to others.” 

When the Pandemic hit, it was hard for Modaser’s family to stay active with Honeycomb, so they focused their efforts in their Lakeview neighborhood by cleaning up their park district and collecting trash around their community.

Although it’s been a while since participating in Honeycomb events, Modaser plans to sign up for a project in the near future. “We are fortunate to have food and shelter, but want to continue help those who are struggling,” she says.

“Through Honeycomb, we feel good as a family,” say Modaser.  “Every small act of kindness may not have a big, immediate effect…but it will have a ripple effect in making a positive difference.”

The Dinnegan-Rafiq Family lives in Lakeview. Modaser works in healthcare data analytics and Michael is in technology trading software. Aaliyah is in tennis and gymnastics and loves drawing and crafting.  Noah loves chess and learning about trains. The family likes to explore new playgrounds and go out new restaurants and bake together.