Ali Ashour is the Chief Executive Officer of Hand of Mercy Health Care – a mental health and wellness facility based out of Portland, Maine.
With a mission to provide quality and compassionate care, the professionals at Hand of Mercy are committed to helping program participants gain the necessary skills to navigate personal milestones. Offering a wide range of comprehensive services, their team of experts works diligently to ensure individuals have the knowledge and resources required for long-term success.
What do you currently do at your company?
I am the CEO of Hand of Mercy Health Care, an organization that works diligently to ensure members of our community have access to quality mental health care. Founded in 2019, we have spent the last three years helping individuals put their best foot forward. By offering our support, we provide people with the tools and resources needed for community integration. We recognize that everyone is different, so we work alongside program participants to ensure that they are on their path to success.
What was the inspiration behind your business?
Prior to founding Hand of Mercy Health Care, I worked as a language interpreter. I always wanted a role that would allow me to positively impact others. I also recognized a lack in quality mental health care in the State of Maine. I did my best to bring members of my local community together. I now work alongside some of the most passionate individuals I have ever met. We provide services for both individuals and families, and our facility is founded on the principles of compassion, acceptance, respect, empowerment, and sincerity.
What defines your way of doing business?
I never think of my job as a business, but rather a community of like-minded individuals who are all working to help individuals reach their full potential. By providing high-quality and compassionate care, we work alongside anyone who may be struggling to navigate challenging times. We do however of course utilize certain social platforms to help with our reach and spread the word.
What keys to being productive can you share?
I would have to say communication. When working on a team it is vital to keep communication channels open throughout the day. Make sure everyone is always on the same page and working towards the same goal. Also never be afraid to delegate certain tasks if you begin to feel overwhelmed. Everyone is there to help you succeed.
Tell us one long-term goal in your career.
We are on a mission to serve individuals in need of mental health services in the State of Maine. Our goal is to continue providing the highest level of service to both individuals and families. Our guiding vision consistently reflects our core values and we look forward to our continued expansion throughout Portland and beyond.
How do you measure success?
We measure success by the number of individuals we are able to help. This line of work is never easy, but it is highly rewarding. Everyone heals differently. That is why we focus on getting to know each individual while understanding their story. We then develop a comprehensive plan of action to get them the help they need.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through the course of your career?
The most valuable lesson I have learned is that I will never stop learning. Every individual that walks through our door is different and requires different tools to be successful. I am currently pursuing a psychology degree from the University of Southern Maine, as it will further aid my knowledge and understanding of mental health.
What advice would you give to others aspiring to succeed in your field?
Never pursue any type of role in mental health services if you lack passion. While I mostly run the business side of things, I come to work every day knowing that I am making a significant difference in my local community. My advice would also be to perform extensive research and perhaps volunteer first to ensure the career path is right for you.
What are some of your favorite things to do outside of work?
I am a business owner so it can be really hard for me to take a step back from my professional obligations. However once I am home I do try to unplug and reset. I recently started making more time for myself so that I can give it my all while at work.
What are a few influential books you’ve read and/or websites you keep up with that you’d recommend
“Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle” by Emily Nagoski, PhD, and Amelia Nagoski, DMA. In our fast paced society it can be hard to just take a minute to ourselves. This book really helped me re-center and refocus my priorities.
