IRUSA’s Day of Dignity Started Off Strong!
by Zana Sahyouni, IRUSA Communications Specialist
Every year Islamic Relief USA hosts several Day of Dignity (DoD) events throughout the nation. These events are an opportunity for Islamic Relief USA volunteers to provide essential services to communities in need through interventions such as serving hot nutritious meals, providing essential items such as clothing and hygiene kits, and offering haircuts to those unable to afford them.
Since its kick-off at Zaman International on August 12, IRUSA has hosted nine DoD events across the nation.
On Saturday, August 17, IRUSA hosted a DoD event at the FJV Foundation in Dallas, TX.
There was an estimated 400–500 people from various walks of life that came out to receive much-needed supplies and show their support for the community.
“This year, we distributed essentials like elementary, junior high, and high school kits to help students prepare for the school year. Alongside these, we handed out hygiene kits, sanitary napkins, and even hats and gloves to ensure everyone had what they needed as the seasons change” shared IRUSA US Programs Coordinator, Abdisalam Sharif.
While helping the community prepare for back-to-school with needed supplies, IRUSA also provided social services. “In addition to the supplies, we were fortunate to have social service providers and healthcare professionals on-site, offering guidance and assistance to those in need,” he continued.
“The turnout was heartwarming, and the energy was one of unity and compassion — truly reflecting how much of an impact these events can have on the lives of others.”
When asked what else these events bring, Abdisalam Sharif shared that: “Being part of the DoD event in Dallas was an incredibly meaningful experience for me. It showed how small acts of kindness can ripple through a community, creating a sense of shared humanity and support. Seeing everyone come together to help those in need reinforced the idea that dignity is something we can all contribute to, no matter our background. This day left a lasting impact on me, as it demonstrated the power of compassion in bringing people together and making a real difference.”
The following week, on Saturday, August 24, IRUSA hosted another DoD event at the Hanan Refugees Relief Group in Milwaukee, WI.
Similar to last year’s DoD event at Hanan Refugees Relief Group, the event brought much needed school supplies to refugees and other beneficiaries in the area.
“Hanan Refugees Relief Group (HRRG) provided such incredible services and ran such a smooth operation for this event! Masha’Allah it was amazing to see the beneficiaries come out and receive the help that they needed!” shared Jasmine Saadeh, IRUSA Regional US Programs Coordinator.
There were over 1,000 attendees, with the majority of the attendees being Rohingya refugees. IRUSA provided hygiene kits, school kits (for all grade levels), school bags, and feminine products. There were other vendors there that provided free vitamins for kids, domestic violence assistance, medical screenings, and games for the kids.
“I asked the Executive Director for HRRG to put me to work as I wanted to get that firsthand experience,” Jasmine Saadeh shared.
“As I worked the table handing out socks to the adults and children, I got to talk to the attendees. Not only do you feel their humility as you hand them a simple pair of socks, but you hear their thankfulness in their ‘thank you.’ A ‘thank you’ can be said in so many ways and yet the mothers and fathers I handed the socks to had the halo of hope in their eyes,” she continued.
A turning point for Jasmine at the DoD event was reflecting on the items that were needed. “I think what got me the most was that we were handing out baby socks. Baby socks. As an expectant mother myself, I felt this immediate sense of saying alhamdulilah, because I am able to purchase baby socks for my baby. I would grab two, or three pairs of baby socks to give just from that feeling, and half of the time the mothers carrying their baby would not ask for the baby socks unless I asked them myself”
“Overall, it was a great experience to see how our donor money is put to use, how our items are distributed, and how our assistance to our partners can really elevate communities.
“Spoke with staff and beneficiaries and they both agree that events like Day of Dignity are what pushes communities forward in both inspiration and hope!”
“Thank you to everyone involved,” Jasmine shared.
None of these events would have been possible without YOU, our donors, volunteers, and staff.
If you are interested in attending, there are still more events to come. You can find all of the upcoming Day of Dignity events here.
