Zakat stands as one of the core pillars of Islam, a religious obligation and spiritual practice that binds our ummah together in a spirit of brotherhood, sisterhood and mutual assistance.
In our modern times, it is easy to go online to make a donation, or to set up monthly withdrawals, while still remaining detached and disconnected at times from those in need in our own communities.
Do we know where to send people when they need support?
Are our institutions equipped to work with those in need of support beyond providing limited handouts?
Our Muslim community is full of sincere believers who have been thinking about and addressing these issues. This conference is an opportunity for these people to learn from eachothers experiences. For those who are wanting to serve their community more effectively to learn, reflect and find their own inspiration. We ask Allah to make our intentions sincere and to open up for success in Allah's pleasure (tawfiq) and increase the blessings of our zakat for our community, the beneficiaries, the donors and the service providers all together.
The core question for this conference to explore is how we can better manage local zakat distribution in ways that maximize benefit to our community.
Key notes will focus on our relationship with zakat and principles of effective philanthropy.
Panels will allow foundations and other zakat service organizations to share how they have developed to better serve their community and what they have learned throughout the process.
Breakouts and networking sessions will allow for participants to learn from one another and explore new possibilities.
By the end of the conference, we look to have some concrete ways to continue the conversation and actionable opportunties to work together in support of our community.
This conference is hosted by: the Muslim Life Program at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pennsylvania Muslim Students Association, The University of Pennsylvania Spiritual and Religious Life Center.
Register here!