Islamic Relief USA Fundraiser Dinner by Sakeena Ahmed

The night's volunteers.

MashaAllah, Islamic Relief USA celebrated its 25th year of humanitarian work around the world on Saturday, April 14 at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham, The Wynfrey Hotel. IR-USA presented a fundraiser dinner, “Together for Children in Need”, for the children of Palestine, Syria, and Myanmar. The program began with dinner, followed by a presentation of awards to local community members who have worked in various activities that have served our community. Br. Ashfaq Taufique, Sr. Yasmin Nimer, and Br. Farook Chandiwala were recognized and presented with a plaque honoring their works. May Allah continue to give them the health and strength to continue their efforts.

The audience was shown a video of the plight of the children in the above mentioned war torn countries. Not a dry eye was seen after viewing the video. May Allah ease the burden of these children, and all children around the world, suffering from any type of hardship. Eye witnesses Br. Ridwan Adhami and Br. Yousef Abdallah spoke from their hearts appealing to the audience to give what they can to IR-USA who would deliver to the needs of these children. Alhamdulillah over $100,000 was collected from the fundraiser dinner. We pray that this small amount will offer some relief to what our Muslim brothers and sisters are facing on a daily basis.

Imam Suhaib Webb addressed the audience next with beautiful reminders from the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) life and reminding us about the journey of Isra wa’l Miraj, which occurred in the month of Rajab that just passed. The program ended with a light hearted comedy show by Br. Amer Zahr. The audience enjoyed the program and concluded with Isha prayer before heading home fo the night.

May Allah reward all the volunteers and organizers of the fundraiser dinner. It was a well organized program and reminder to all who attended that everyone is being tested in one way or another, whether it be through wealth or poverty. For those who have been blessed with wealth, Allah is testing them to see how much they will give to those who are being tested with hardship.