|
A Pillar in the Community |
|
|
|
|
When Imam Qatanani arrived in Paterson, he found a fragmented community, united only by locale and language. But with a vision of a uniquely American ideal implanted in his mind, the Imam set out to unify the community. Working tirelessly, the Imam implemented youth programs, weekend school classes, nightly community gatherings, summer picnics, and community festivities uniting the community with the message of hope and peace.
Thirteen years later, the ICPC community has been transformed into a thriving and culturally diverse community with a strong sense of civic pride and duty. Fruits of the Imam’s work include:
1. Annual voter registration drives
2. In-house round table discussions with political leaders including several Governors, US Senators, Congressman, State Senate and Assembly Representatives, Mayors ands Municipal Council Officials.
3. Human relief efforts comprised of food and fund drives for the victims of September 11, Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina
4. Local Health fairs and blood drives
5. Diversified congregation with comprehensive interpretation and translation services
6. Strengthened familial bonds and increased their engagement within the community.
|
