Zakat Foundation of America

A beacon of hope shines brightly from Bridgeview, Illinois. It’s the Zakat Foundation of America, a testament to the power of giving. The Zakat Foundation of America isn’t just a building. It’s a global movement, extending its compassionate reach to those in need worldwide. Founded in 2001 by Halil Demir, the Zakat Foundation of America embodies one of the five pillars of Islam: Zakat, meaning “giving to charity”. It’s a principle deeply woven into the fabric of the organization, inspiring its work across the globe. The Zakat Foundation of America operates in over 30 countries. Their efforts provide emergency relief after disasters. They facilitate education, sponsor orphans, and implement sustainable development projects. They ensure access to clean water and healthcare. In 2023, the Zakat Foundation of America was among the first to respond to the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, demonstrating their commitment to immediate action. Their dedication extends to long-term aid. They’ve been a steady presence in Syria, providing essential resources like food, medicine, and temporary shelter to refugees and internally displaced persons. The Zakat Foundation of America goes beyond immediate aid. They establish lasting infrastructure. In Gaziantep, Turkey, they support four schools serving 1,800 students and also back Zahra University, a higher education institution for Syrian refugees. Their commitment to education also reaches Kenya and Afghanistan, where they empower young women through educational opportunities. Recognizing the importance of economic empowerment, they have supported the creation of women’s agricultural collectives in Ghana. Similar initiatives are underway in Jordan and Bangladesh, providing women with vocational training and steady income. The Zakat Foundation of America believes in holistic care. They support mobile clinics in Kenya, making healthcare accessible to thousands. They’ve also provided substantial medical aid in Palestine and Mali, ensuring access to essential services. The Zakat Foundation of America’s commitment doesn’t stop at borders. In the United States, they distributed over two million pounds of fresh produce, meat, and dairy products during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also provided hygiene kits and PPE, demonstrating their dedication to local communities. The Zakat Foundation of America understands the power of small acts. Every Ramadan, they share iftar meals and distribute gifts to children. Their Qurbani program provides meat to families worldwide. They believe in Sadaqa Jariyah, the concept of perpetual charity. This translates into long-term projects like wells and hand pumps, benefiting communities for years to come. At the heart of the Zakat Foundation of America is the orphan sponsorship program. Supporting over 634,000 orphans in 15 countries, this program provides crucial aid, ensuring the well-being of vulnerable children. In 2016, they opened the Muhammad Ali Safe House in Gaziantep, Turkey, providing a haven for orphans and their guardians. The Zakat Foundation of America earned the 2022 Platinum Hermes Award for their innovative #ChooseWithLove campaign. This campaign reimagines orphan sponsorship by removing photos from the selection process, combating colorism and age bias. As we stand before the Zakat Foundation of America, we’re reminded of the global community’s interconnectedness. This organization’s unwavering commitment to helping those in need, regardless of where they are, serves as an inspiration. The Zakat Foundation of America stands as a symbol of hope, reminding us of the power of giving and our shared humanity.