The Mainstay Foundation is a 501(c)(3) service-oriented, nonprofit organization dedicated to strategic initiatives that serve the advancement of the Muslim community in the United States. Established in 2012, the Foundation was born from the efforts of a collective team of committed individuals with a shared passion for empowering and uplifting their community. With experience across a variety of institutions and organizations nationwide, this founding team brought together their talents and vision to create a sustainable and impactful foundation.

The name “Mainstay” reflects the organization’s purpose: to serve as a vital source of support—an essential pillar in helping the community not only exist but thrive. Believing in the power of collective action, the Foundation focuses on nurturing individual growth and strengthening institutions through organized, collaborative efforts.

The Foundation’s vision is guided by a core philosophy outlined in its evolving document, A Community in Motion, which invites community leaders and members to engage in shaping a stronger, more united Muslim society.

Rooted in the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the Ahl al-Bayt, as interpreted by qualified jurists during the occultation of the twelfth Imam, the Foundation draws its guiding principles from deep theological and scholarly traditions. These principles affirm the sacred right to life, the importance of preserving human dignity, and the responsibility to safeguard all communities.

Mainstay promotes a strong sense of identity through a firm understanding of Islamic creed and encourages active participation in the wider society. With a local focus, national reach, and global mindset, the Foundation works to ensure that the values of compassion, justice, and coexistence remain integral to the evolving narrative of American Muslim life.

Contacts

Address: The Innovation & Leadership Center, 15170 N. Commerce Dr., Dearborn, MI 48120, USA

Phone: +1 (313) 264 4655

Email: info@mainstay.us

Website: https://www.mainstay.us/

The Islamic Center of Naperville (ICN) is a vibrant and inclusive community hub located in Naperville, Illinois, dedicated to serving the religious, educational, and cultural needs of Muslims in the Naperville area and its surrounding cities and towns. Established in 1991 as a non-profit organization under the laws of the State of Illinois, ICN has grown into one of the most prominent Islamic centers in the Midwest, welcoming individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.

Historical Background

The roots of ICN trace back to the 1970s and 1980s when a group of far-sighted Muslims established the Naperville Islamic School as an affiliate of the Muslim Community Center (MCC) in Chicago. Initially, the weekend school was held on Friday nights at Naperville North High School and later at Woodridge School in Lisle to save costs.

By 1983, the community had raised $15,000 to acquire a building for a masjid but postponed their plans when the Islamic Foundation purchased a building in Villa Park. In 1984, members of this group, along with others, formed the Qur’anic Study Club at Bell Laboratories, a prominent local employer. Regular Jumu’ah prayers began at Bell Laboratories during this time, while Isha’ prayers and Taraweeh were held in community members’ homes.

By the late 1980s, the need for a dedicated physical space became undeniable. In the early 1990s, the community purchased a building on Olesen Drive, formerly owned by a religious group, to establish the Islamic Center of Naperville. Since then, ICN has experienced rapid growth, particularly during Ramadan and Eid prayers, when the community often outgrows its current facility and seeks larger venues to accommodate the increasing numbers. Today, ICN holds two Jumu’ah prayer sessions each week, with both sessions often filled to capacity.

Mission

The mission of the Islamic Center of Naperville is to grow into a masjid-centric community dedicated to the obedience of Allah (SWT), the Creator, the Provider, the Most Beneficent, and the Most Merciful. ICN focuses on:

• Raising Muslim generations grounded in the Qur’an and Sunnah as taught by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and practiced by his companions.
• Providing a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for Muslims and interested non-Muslims of all ages.
• Serving as a second home and extended family for the community, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.

Vision

ICN envisions a vibrant community where its centers serve as a second home and extended family, especially for the youth. The center aims to achieve this through:

• Religious services and education, including daily prayers, Jumu’ah, Taraweeh, and Islamic studies.
• Youth programs and leadership development to engage and empower young Muslims.
• Charitable work to support those in need locally and globally.
• Full-time and weekend schools to provide quality Islamic and academic education for children.
• Interfaith activities to promote communal harmony and mutual understanding.

Facilities and Services

ICN boasts a range of facilities, including a spacious prayer hall, classrooms, a library, and multipurpose spaces for community events. The center also provides separate areas for men and women, ensuring a comfortable and respectful environment for all worshippers.

Programs and Activities

ICN offers a wide range of programs catering to all age groups:

• Religious Services: Daily prayers, Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers, and Taraweeh during Ramadan.
• Educational Programs: Quran classes, Islamic studies for children and adults, and Arabic language courses.
• Youth Activities: Youth groups, leadership development, and recreational activities.
• Community Outreach: Interfaith dialogues, open houses, and charitable initiatives.
• Social Events: Family gatherings, cultural celebrations, and community dinners.

Interfaith and Community Engagement

ICN is deeply committed to building bridges with the wider community. The center regularly hosts interfaith events, collaborates with local organizations, and participates in civic activities to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. Through its outreach efforts, ICN aims to dispel misconceptions about Islam and highlight its message of peace and compassion.

Charitable Initiatives

Guided by the Islamic principles of charity and service, ICN actively supports local and global humanitarian causes. The center organizes food drives, fundraising campaigns, and volunteer opportunities to address issues such as poverty, homelessness, and disaster relief.

Leadership and Volunteers

ICN is led by a dedicated team of imams, board members, and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the center’s success. Their efforts are driven by a shared commitment to serving the community and upholding the values of Islam.

Visit ICN

Whether you are a Muslim seeking a welcoming community or someone interested in learning more about Islam, the Islamic Center of Naperville invites you to visit and experience its warm and inclusive atmosphere. Join ICN in its mission to inspire faith, foster understanding, and make a positive impact in the world.

Contact Information

• Address: 2844 W Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
• Phone: +1 (630) 426-3335
• Fax: +1 (630) 428-3737
• Email: info@icnmasjid.org
• Website: www.icnmasjid.org

Centro Islamico, located on Brant Road, offers more than just a place of worship. It also serves as an educational hub, aiming to foster understanding of Islam among the Latino population, Click2Houston reported.

Founded by Jaime “Mujahid” Fletcher, the center is part of IslamInSpanish, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making Islamic education accessible to Spanish speakers. Fletcher, a former gang leader who converted to Islam after a year of self-reflection, hopes the center will provide a space for Muslims like him to reconnect with their faith and culture.

“This center is almost like Islam on display,” said Fletcher. “It’s a place where people can come and learn, not only about Islam, but about the historical connection between Latinos and the religion.”

Centro Islamico features a prayer hall, a museum dedicated to the history of Muslims in Spain, and a community space. The 10,000-square-foot building also hosts Friday prayers in Spanish and English, making it a unique resource for Houston’s growing Latino Muslim population.

Fletcher’s wife, Sandy “Sakinah” Gutierrez, who serves as the center’s interior designer and COO of IslamInSpanish, emphasised the importance of making the space approachable.

The center’s design incorporates Andalusian art and architecture, paying homage to the historical Muslim presence in Spain. “When you first walk in, you’ll see a mural inspired by Andalusian design,” Gutierrez said. “We wanted the space to feel familiar and welcoming.”

One of the key features of Centro Islamico is its focus on education. The museum highlights 800 years of Muslim history in Spain, aiming to dispel misconceptions about Islam’s global reach.

“A lot of times people think Islam is an Arab religion, but it was native to Spain for centuries, where many of us have roots,” Fletcher explained.

In addition to its religious and educational offerings, the center has a café and a youth room designed to make visitors feel at home.

“We want people to come in, drink coffee, ask questions, and feel comfortable exploring the space,” Gutierrez said.

“Even if they don’t have questions, they’re welcome to observe.”

The center’s inclusive approach has attracted a wide range of visitors, but it has also faced some criticism from traditionalist Muslims. Despite this, Gutierrez believes that the center’s mission to bridge cultural and religious gaps is essential.

“We’ve been through the process of not knowing what Islam was,” she said. “We designed this space to minimize any tension or fear people might have.”

Centro Islamico is currently in a soft launch, with a grand opening set for November 16. The center offers Friday sermons in Spanish at 1:30 p.m. and in English at 2:30 p.m., and all visitors are welcome.

Source: About Islam

The World Federation is made up of member organizations based in different regions:

• The Federation of Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaats of Africa,
• The Council of European Jamaats,
• Federation of Australasian Communities,
• India Federation,
• Organization of North American Shia Ithna-Asheri Muslim Communities (NASIMCO),
• and The Federation of Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaats of Pakistan.

The role of The World Federation (WF) is to facilitate endeavors of its member organizations, through strategic planning and providing necessary resources for effective implementation.

The World Federation is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations.

The World Federation believes that all human beings are entitled to basic provisions, and therefore one of its key strategic objectives is to undertake humanitarian projects to achieve this. The long-term aim of the World Federation is to bring about self-sufficiency within the developing world, through providing access to water, healthcare and education for all. In addition, the organization’s core values include spreading the true message of Islam as a religion that emphasizes on peace and upholding human values.

WF, with its motto ‘We Exist to Serve,’ implements its projects by working closely with partners based in different parts of the globe. Examples of projects undertaken include:

• A rapid response to emergencies and disasters worldwide
• Relieving financial deprivation through economic development and building human capacity and potential
• Provision of medical facilities and healthcare, through the running of several Health Centers and Eye Clinics worldwide
• Supporting of projects that provide for safe drinking water in developing countries
• Provision of low-cost housing
• Provision of necessities to groups that are most vulnerable, such as seniors, children and women
• Sponsoring students from developing countries who wish to study in regions where there is a high level of education, supported by adequate resources and facilities
• Engagement with various interfaith groups aimed at bridging the gap between Muslim communities and those of other religions, in order to promote community cohesion
• Publication and distribution of Islamic books

Contacts

• Address: Wood Lane Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LQ, UK
• Phone: + 44 20 8954 9881
• Fax: + 44 20 8954 9034
• Email: secretariat@world-federation.org
• Website: https://www.world-federation.org/

The current premises, known as the “Haidery Centre,” was purchased in 1982. The building houses a mosque, an Imam-bargah, and a school. It consists of three floors, encompassing an approximate working area of 12,000 square feet, and includes a separate parking lot in front of the building.

Mission

The Association was established to serve the Shia community of Montreal, a role it has fulfilled successfully for nearly 50 years. Its mission is to spread the message of the Ahl al-Bayt while contributing through volunteering and cooperative efforts within the Montreal Muslim community.

Activities

The Shiane Haidery Islamic Association actively serves the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the Shia community through its mosque, Imam-bargah, and school.

• In the mosque:

– Weekly Rhythms: Friday prayers and Thursday night gatherings for prayers and dhikr.
– Ramadan Rituals: Daily prayers, Qur’an recitations, and special observances on the night of Qadr.
– Eid Celebrations: Prayers for Eidul Fitr and Eidul Adha.
– Funeral prayers

• In the Imam-bargah:

– Cultural Commemorations: Majalis and Milad events to honor significant figures in Islamm including Muharram majalis and Eid-i Ghadeer Khumm celebration.
– Spiritual Gatherings: Majalis-i Sawab for communal spiritual reward.
– Youth Programs: Tailored programs for young people in multiple languages.
– Women’s Programs: Special events for women on notable occasions.

• At the Haidery Centre:

– Life Milestones: Conducting matrimonial ceremonies and funeral arrangements.
– Membership Meetings: Regular meetings, fundraising, and social events.

• In the school:

– Sunday School: Religious and Quranic education for children, supplemented with practical skills training.

Contacts

• Address: 2174 Ave Belgrave, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 2LB, Canada
• Phone: +1 (514) 483-1273
• Email: info@shianehaidery.com
• Website: www.shianehaidery.com

At Al-Noor Institute, a variety of activities are undertaken beyond the primary congregational mission. Seminars are hosted, and community service volunteering is done to assist the homeless and those in need, all while upholding the institute’s religious ethos focused on unifying the community. With an open-door policy, individuals from all backgrounds are welcomed, providing a conducive environment to explore Islam through reflecting on the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH & HP) and his Ahlulbayt (A.S).

Historical Background

In the year 1990, a group of young people, aiming to fill a void, decided to start regular lectures in English by distinguished Muslim scholars, followed by a question & answer session.

At the time of its inception, this was quite a unique and, in many ways, revolutionary concept as there were hardly any facilities available in those days that were dedicated solely to the younger generation, especially in English.

The program continued regularly every Friday for several years at the Idara-e-Jaaferiya in Tooting and was immensely successful.

In 1996, the program moved to St. Phillips Church Hall in Norbury and in 1997 a charity named Al-Noor was established to give the program a more formal structure.

From 1997-1999 the Friday programs continued at St. Stephens Church Hall. A separate room was utilized during the lectures/seminars to provide Islamic classes for Children.

In July of 1999, Al Noor moved its present accommodation at London Road Norbury and Al-Noor Institute formally came into being with a view to broadening the services and activities that could be offered to the community.

Mission Statement

Al-Noor has a very clearly laid out mission statement, which is as follows:

• To establish knowledge about Islam amongst Muslims & non-Muslims and to provide a complimentary service to that already provided by existing Islamic Institutions.
• To promote the spirit of true Islam in a friendly atmosphere where both brothers & sisters are encouraged to develop in the Islamic way of life.
• To protect Islamic identity through the teachings of Islam.
• To develop an Islamic environment within which stimulating religious services and programs can be provided, complemented by social, educational & porting activities.
• To provide access to knowledgeable persons for guidance on all Islamic matters, thoughts & issues which affect the Muslim community.

Contacts

• Address: 2nd Floor, 1517A, London Road, Norbury, SW16 4AE, UK
• Phone: +44 7765 746537
• Email: info@alnoor.org.uk
• Website: https://alnoor.org.uk/

What Community Should Feel Like

Established in 1978, the Islamic Center at New York University (ICNYU) functions within the Division of Student Affairs at New York University, a private institution of higher education and research located in lower Manhattan. ICNYU is overseen by the Office of the Muslim Chaplain, established in April 2007 to meet the needs of a growing Muslim community.

The Islamic Center at NYU provides a safe place for individuals with multiple points of entry to learn, pray, socialize, and utilize a space situated at intellectual and spiritual crossroads. The center offers a variety of services and activities, including Jumu’ah Prayers, classes and Halaqas for youth men and women, events for Shi’a and Ja’fari, Latino Muslims, families, Majalis for Muharram, Arba’een, Ramadan, etc.

Inspired by the idea that America’s Muslim community will best develop in a supportive environment, the Islamic Center has not only seen tremendous increase in membership but has motivated its student population to find new ways of harnessing their resources and expanding their relationships with the wider community.

Today’s Islamic Center caters to a wide and growing audience, reaching not only Muslims in New York City but also individuals from other communities. The Islamic Center at NYU is dedicated to fostering a sense of awareness, activism and scholarship among the Muslim community both on and off campus.

Administration and Staff

• Imam Khalid Latif, Executive Director and University Chaplain
• Faiyaz Jaffer, Associate Chaplain and Research Scholar
• Amira Shouman, Associate Director

Contacts

• Address: The Global Center for Academic and Spiritual Life, 4th Floor, 238 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012, US
• Phone: +1 (212) 998-4712
• Email: info@icnyu.org
• Website: https://icnyu.org/

Islamic education is the cornerstone of being a good Muslim and citizen. Essex Islamic Academy is dedicated to this cause and offers education classes for children and adults. The Mosque caters for both boys and girls (girls form 4 year and boys from the age of 5).

Students follow a structured syllabus throughout their time at the Maktab/Madressa and progress is assessed annually through oral and written examinations, as well as assessments during the year.

Vision
To be an exemplary Muslim community organization in East London in providing Islamic guidance and services to the community.

Mission
To serve the spiritual, religious and communal needs of East London area Muslims by means of nurturing their faith, upholding their values, and fostering the well-being of the community through worship, charity, education, outreach, and civic engagement.

Contacts

• Address: 343 Ripple Rd, Barking, Essex IG11 7RR, UK
• Phone: +44 20 3802 2149
• Mobile: +44 7944 605984
• Email: info@essexislamicacademy.org
• Website: https://essexislamicacademy.org/

The Islamic Center of New England (ICNE) founded in 1964, is an institution dedicated to the betterment of both Muslims and society at large and draws its strength and guidance from the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWS), may the peace and blessings of Allah be bestowed upon him. It has masajid (mosques) at two sites, one in Quincy, MA and the second in Sharon, MA.

Today, the Islamic Center of New England in Sharon, MA has a beautiful large prayer room, social hall, and school, with plenty of land for further expansion. The Center has become a model of peaceful co-existence and is open for interfaith dialogue, socializing, and learning.

The Intra-Faith Community Relations Committee is responsible for the relationships between Muslims and other Muslims, both within ICNE and between ICNE and other masjids in the Greater Boston area. Our goal is to ensure that ICNE is a place where everybody feels connected and welcome.

Mission

• To promote connections and harmony between different groups within the community.
• To create and strengthen bonds between members of ICNE and members of other Boston-area masjids.
• To take pro-active steps to make ICNE an anti-racist community that promotes racial equity both within the local community and in the Greater Boston area.

Contacts

Address (Sharon Mosque): 74 Chase Dr, Sharon, MA 02067, USA

Phone (Sharon Mosque): +1 781 806 0942

Address (Quincy Mosque): 470 South St, Quincy, MA 02169, USA

Phone (Quincy Mosque): +1 617 479 8341

Email: icne_email@icne.net

Website: http://www.icne.net/

The center was the cornerstone of the Islamic Education of the Islamic youth in the St George Area. In 2000 they moved into new premises in Turrella with the intention to create a Community Centre with a school to cater for the growth of the community.

The Jaafaria center is a well-established community; the center has educational programs for children, youth and adults in both English and Arabic. Along with youth activities that range from camping to an upcoming soccer team in 2012.  Al-Jaafaria will continue to strive and support the community with various programs and activities and welcomes all to take advantage of the center.

Shia Islamic School Scripture is an initiative of Al-Jaafaria, they consider Special Religious Education (SRE) a great way to be involved in the local community as they assist children and young people to engage with the faith of their family, it’s a great privilege to help educate children to form a strong personal moral and ethical structure, enabling children to have a stronger understanding of faith while at school. It’s an opportunity for children to explore and understand the religious scripture of Islam. Al-Jaafaria is an Approved Provider of SRE and working with many Public Schools (Primary & High schools).

Imam Mahdi School is another initiative of Al-Jaafaria, it takes place in Arncliffe Public School every Saturday during school days, the schools aim to teach the community kids Arabic language.

Website: https://www.aljaafaria.com.au/