You Always Come Through
It's simple. We need each other.
Support our Work (Zakat & General Fund)
Dear Community,
Every Ramadan, we see countless worthy causes calling for support, and yet, you continue to stand with us. That means everything.
As our community grows, more and more people are calling this space home. Unlike suburban or neighborhood-based centers, being centrally located comes with its own set of challenges. There is no built-in congregation from a single neighborhood. People drive across town, sometimes from the farthest reaches of the city, to be here. They do it because they find something here they cannot find elsewhere, a community that feels like home, a space where they are spiritually nourished, intellectually engaged, and emotionally supported.
But maintaining this kind of community is not easy. There is no large endowment funding our work. We are not tied to a wealthy donor base. This center has been built and sustained by the people who believe in its mission, one act of generosity at a time.
Here is a beautiful story among many. A few years ago, a young man took his shahada here. He wanted to embrace Islam privately, so we stepped into my office, and with a few other teachers present, he recited the testimony of faith. Afterward, I asked how he found us. He smiled and said he had been listening to a podcast where the host had mentioned our center multiple times. What struck me most was that this podcast host lives in Istanbul, Trkiyethousands of miles away.
We dont pay for advertising. Yet, this man in Istanbul called our community his favorite in America.
Think about that. Someone halfway across the world recognizes the importance of what we are building here. This is why supporting Islamic communities in America is critical. We cannot afford to let go of the places that get it rightthe ones that care for converts, create spiritual grounding, and provide a home for those seeking faith and connection.
And that spirit of giving is what sustains this place. This Ramadan, I was humbled when one of our seminary students from Chicagosomeone who doesnt even live heredonated $1,000 to our fundraiser. That same week, a local teenager gave $5 of her own money to support her community. Two people, two vastly different circumstances, but both recognizing the value of this space.
I pray that you will continue to help sustain and strengthen this work. Your generosity allows us to continue providing a space where people find connection, meaning, and spiritual grounding.
May Allah bless you and your families and multiply your rewards in these blessed days.
With gratitude,
Khalis Rashaad