Join us to help build a welcoming community in Michigan!
Michigan is home to about 652,000 immigrants and refugees, and the numbers will only increase as the Syrian crisis continues. Join the Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP) and Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy (EPIP) – Michigan chapter for a special Ramadan Iftar dinner, film screening & panel discussion centered around refugee and immigrant support and integration. At Building a Welcoming Community, we will discuss how we – as individuals and organizations – can work together to promote diverse and inclusive communities. Proceeds will support the Building Blocks for New Americans Fund at CAAP, which is directly supporting 25 New American families from Syria. This event is jointly hosted by CAAP and EPIP, but all interested members of the community are welcome. Hope to see you there!
Why you should attend:
- Enjoy a traditional Ramadan Iftar dinner (Note: Out of respect for those who are fasting, we won’t be providing food or drink prior to breaking fast. The dinner will take place after sunset – around 9pm – so for those who need to eat or drink, please ensure to do so prior to the event)
- View a special screening of Salam Neighbor, in which two Americans live amongst 80,000 uprooted refugees in Jordan’s Za’atari refugee camp. (Note: This film may contain disturbing images or material that may be sensitive to some viewers)
- Partake in a panel discussion about the needs of Syrian refugees in Michigan, and ideas for funders to meet those needs
- Special guests include Christine Sauvé, Senior Program Coordinator of Welcoming Michigan, Zienab Berro, Clinician- Emergency Social Services at ACCESS, and more TBD
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is a special month of the year for over one billion Muslims throughout the world. It is a time for inner reflection, devotion to God, and self-control. Muslims think of it as a kind of tune-up for their spiritual lives. The third “pillar” or religious obligation of Islam, fasting has many special benefits. You can learn more about Ramadan, and the importance of fasting, by visiting this link.
Event Location:
Arab American National Museum
13624 Michigan Ave, Dearborn MI 48126
About CAAP:
The Center for Arab American Philanthropy is a national community foundation with the 
objective to unite and empower the Arab American community by demonstrating the impact of giving together.
About EPIP Michigan:
EPIP Michigan, a chapter of EPIP National, is a statewide network of emerging leaders and professionals working in philanthropy and supporting social change. Our goal is to develop and support Michigan leaders by curating knowledge and content rooted in equitable philanthropy; providing opportunities for professional and leadership development; and creating space for networking and relationship building. Our volunteer steering committee consists of professionals from foundations across Michigan who plan and implement year-round programs and activities.