Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA) works throughout the world and here in the U.S. to provide communities in need with compassionate aid that upholds their human dignity. In the U.S., these projects include hot meals and other food aid; disaster response to Hurricanes Helene, Beryl, Matthew, Florence, and Dorian, and other natural calamities; and refugee resettlement support for those who have emigrated to the U.S. to escape adverse conditions at home.
Day of Dignity
Another of IRUSA’s signature domestic programs is its Day of Dignity initiative, which encompassed 29 events and served upwards of 60,000 people across the country in fall 2024. Day of Dignity events provide an opportunity for IRUSA volunteers to engage with their communities and provide necessary care and services to deserving populations in need.
At these events, attendees received hot meals, clothes, hygiene supplies, and even haircuts, free of charge. Medical screenings and medical care were also provided where possible. Classes and other opportunities were on offer as well, including yoga and movement classes, art projects, and a host of other activities targeting children.
IRUSA recognizes that just like in other countries, there is much need within the U.S. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 37.2 million people in the US, more than 10 percent of the population, live in poverty. The Day of Dignity events provide aid to those in need in a manner that makes everyone feel that they are important, appreciated members of the community. These events are an acknowledgement of each person’s intrinsic value as brothers and sisters of the human family, and that a person’s importance is not dictated by their financial situation.
In addition to supporting the actual services provided at the Day of Dignity events, volunteers and stakeholders have the opportunity to further the initiative through social media.
IRUSA maintains accounts on Facebook and other social media where community members can learn about and spread the word about the Day of Dignity and other IRUSA projects and volunteer opportunities.
This Year’s Events
IRUSA’s 2024 Day of Dignity began on August 12 in Inkster, Michigan. On August 17, an event was held in Dallas, Texas. The following week, another event was held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Over 1,000 people attended this event, most of whom were Rohingya refugees living in the area.
A Day of Dignity event in Detroit, Michigan, welcomed 2,500 people. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib attended to show support for this initiative and raise awareness throughout the community. Working alongside several local partners, IRUSA distributed meals, groceries, school supplies, backpacks, hygienic kits, and coats. A horse ride was also conducted for the children who attended this event.
One of the last events of the 2024 Day of Dignity series was on November 9 in Dallas. Food and pregnancy assistance were some of the resources that attendees received at the event, in addition to education assistance and flu shots. More than 1,000 people received a range of services provided by IRUSA, along with a dozen local partners including health, technology, and legal professionals, as well as housing and food assistance counselors.
The Importance of Islamic Relief USA Volunteers
Dozens of partner organizations and hundreds of volunteers throughout the U.S. participated in the Day of Dignity events, offering their time, effort, and skills free of charge in support of those in their community who are less fortunate.
The Day of Dignity series is one of the hallmarks of IRUSA’s work in the U.S. and only happens with the help of these generous volunteers who demonstrate time and time again their commitment to serving others and making the world a better place. With the help of these volunteers, every event brings IRUSA one step closer to achieving its goal of creating a world without poverty.