It's not goodbye, it's 'see you around, Mike!'

It's with a deeply heavy heart that we announce the departure of our Director of Outreach, Mike Swies, from Taleef. But it's not a goodbye, it's a "see you around!

It's with a deeply heavy heart that we announce the departure of our Director of Outreach, Mike Swies, from Taleef. But it's not a goodbye, it's a "see you around!

Over his years at Taleef, Mike developed the tools to create welcoming, inclusive, and authentically Prophetic spaces for anyone looking to learn more about our religion. He's spent countless hours between Chicago and Fremont ensuring that Taleef is truly a place where hearts come together. So much of what he has contributed to our community has happened behind the scenes and is known only to Allah. But what most of us will remember him for is the warmth he brought to his service. He was never without a smile, a sincere welcome, or brotherly love and advice. 

Seeing Mike go is a bittersweet moment for us at Taleef. But we also understand the cost of serving the community. It comes at the expense of time with our families, our emotional bandwidth, and our own ability to be served in the places we call home. Mike has given the better part of 20 years to this work. He's done his tour of duty and left behind a beautiful legacy for everyone who will ever walk through our doors.

So, Mike, we pray that every tongue you've guided in reciting the shahada, every heart you've touched, and every tear you've shed in the course of your work testify on your behalf when we stand before our Lord May your sacrifices give you, your children, and your children's children a community that you can always call home. May your example inspire countless others to carry your torch. And may Allah reward your beloved wife, Alia, who shared in all your sacrifices over the years. Ameen.

Peace and blessings,

Ta'leef Team

The 1000 Hearts campaign is an effort to gather 1000 Hearts together in support of Ta'leefs work. 1000 supporters coming together forming one beating heart that helps keep this work alive. By giving $3 a day($90/month recurring) we would meet our annual budget and more. 1000 hearts came from an effort to highlight the individuals that we take care of at Ta'leef. The seeker, the newcomer and the youth. By giving $1/day for each category above you would sustain our work and beneficiaries at Ta'leef. Please support so we can continue lending a heart to those that need our support the most! 

Taleef Collective, 43170 Osgood Rd, Fremont, CA 94539, United States, 510.573.2719