Ramadhan Mubarak

In this holy month of Ramadhan, the month of fasting and drawing closer to God, let us remember to pray for the innocent victims of war, torture and oppression all over the world. In order to overcome the difficulties we face worldwide, we need to put aside our differences and rejoice in our brotherhood of faith. Let us use the strength we gain in unity and continue working together to actively try and clarify misconceptions about Islam - a religion of Liberty and Jusice for all.

At UMF we believe that every human being has an enormous potential to make a difference because we are all God's creation. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. And as we let our own light shine by giving of ourselves and reaching our greatest potential, we subconsciously give others permission to do the same.

UMF is pleased to announce that just in the last week, two local schools in Orlando and PA. that have agreed to put up a banner Celebrating Ramadhan. These professional looking banners are perfect for any school and are personalized by UMF with the school's name. We have also in circulation a brochure packet with information on Islam and collages on Ramadhan being created by Muslims Nationwide for Display.

UMF would like to urge all youths to please approach their schools and universities to see if they would like to get on board and recieve a banner from UMF to display this event celebrated by Muslims worldwide and across cultures. We would also like to call on YOU to get into action and help make collages for your local library or school that reflect the multicultural aspect of this Holy Month, with all the foods, clothes and colors to make it an exciting and vibrant presentation.

"Righteousness does not consist in whether you face towards the east or the west. The righteous man is he who believes in Allah and the last day, in the Angels and the Book and the Prophets; who for the love of Allah gives his wealth to his kinsfolk, to the orphans, to the needy, to the wayfarers and to the beggars, and for the redemption of captives; who attends to his prayers and pays the alms tax; who is true to his promises and steadfast in trial and adversity and in times of war. Such are the true believers; such are the God fearing." The Holy Koran 2:177

UMF is helping the Salvation Army collect school supplies, shoes and clothes to help individuals and families in need. The drive will run through Friday, October 6th. All donations may be dropped at Al-Ahad Islamic Center in the main lobby.

As part of our ongoing efforts to reach out and bring a smile to the sick and elderly, UMF is organizing a visit to the nursing home on October 3rd in order to spend some time with an elderly Muslim woman there. This event is perfect for women and children.

Remember: Taking the time to bring joy into someone else's life also enriches your own. If you are interested in joining our group, please e- mail us at info@unitedmsulimfoundation.org as soon as possible. Spaces are limited.

UMF is joining hands with Hands on Orlando to make life better for low-income adults who live at a respite-recovery center in Casselberry. Spaces are limited at this event, so you must sign up to confirm that you will be attending ASAP.

It's sure to be a great time! We’ll cook and serve a tasty lunch to seniors with different dietary restrictions, play games like BINGO with residents, and hand out stuffed animals as prizes. No cooking or special skills are required.

Please also remember to wear comfortable clothing and closed- toed shoes. There's nothing you can't do with a smile and the desire to make a difference :)

UMF is helping Muslim Student Associations throughout the US and Canada raise money for Niger, a Muslim nation in Central Africa that has, despite its desperate need, been neglected by the international community.

Over the past four years the MSA has raised $12,000 for various charities and UMF is hoping to help them have the same success in this year's fastathon with your generous contibutions.

The fastathon will culminate on October 18th in Orlando with a fast-breaking dinner at sunset. The iftar catered by Alladin's Cafe is open for both Muslims and non-Muslims. There are people in this world who go without food every day, and sharing a free meal together will help us to remember their suffering.

UMF urges everyone to please send your tax duductible contributions marked for Niger as soon as possible. Checks may be made payable to: United Muslim Foundation P.O. Box 952934 Lake Mary, FL 32795-2934

Come and join us at the Salvation Army once again on October 29th, as UMF volunteers generously betake themselves to a hot stove, clanking pots and chopping vegetables as we set to work preparing a feast for the hungry.

UMF will provide the meat and supplies for the meal. All YOU have to do is sign up! Take advantage of this opportunity to have a great time while making a difference. E-mail shelina@unitedmuslimfoundation if you would like to participate in this event.

"Verily, this brotherhood of yours is one brotherhood, and I am your only Lord. Therefore serve Me. Men have divided themselves, but to Us they shall return. He that does good works in the fullness of his faith, his endeavours shall not be lost: We record them all." The Holy Koran 21:92-94

On September 15th, Muslim Girls from all over the Lehigh Valley gathered together for a UMF event at the Al Ahad Islamic Center for a night of fun and and games. Everyone had a great time getting to know each other over brownies and icecream. UMF is set to schedue this as a monthly event insha-Allah as all the girls are eager to meet again.

A commemorative was held at Wesley United Methodist Church in Bethlehem, PA on the fifth anniversary of 9/11. It was organized by an interfaith group to reflect on the tragedy attempt to understand different perspectives as we grow together. UMF was included in pre- planning activities and attended the event.