In June 1997, and February 1998, northern Afghanistan suffered two earthquakes of a 7.0 magnitude. The first earthquake killed more than 4,000 people, and in the Takhar province more than 15,000 homes were destroyed, leaving thousands homeless. This tragic event inspired the ARO to make its first relief aid trip to Afghanistan in April 1998.

After collecting donations from the Afghan community in the United States, ARO president, Aboul Khalili traveled to the village of Rostaq. In addition to personally distributing relief supplies, a few acres of land were purchased with financial contributions made to ARO. This land was then distributed to those who had lost their homes in Rostaq.

The ARO is grateful for the many contributions that made this relief trip possible. All contributions—large and small—made a difference in the lives of those left injured and/or homeless as a result of these earthquakes.