The Islamic Culture Center of Fresno is more than just a place for Valley Muslims to pray.
“Like other religious organizations, (we do) whatever we can to stretch out a helping hand to folks.”—ICCF’s Reza Nekumanesh
The facility at 2111 E. Nees in Fresno has also been used for community and cultural programs. GV Wire hosted forums at ICCF this past year for the Fresno city council candidates and the Measure P parks tax initiative.
While December may be associated with Judeo-Christian holidays and observances, ICCF shares in another tenant linked to this season—giving back to the community.
The Practice of Charity
In Arabic, “sadaqah” is the word for charity. It’s practiced in these Days of Giving and year round.
“Like other religious organizations, (we do) whatever we can to stretch out a helping hand to folks,” says ICCF executive director Reza Nekumanesh. “We give to people in ways of helping with bills, when they are in a rut or struggling—trying to find ways to lift them back up so they themselves can move forward.”
Imam Seyed Ali Ghazvini said giving back comes in many forms.
“Pay what you can in terms of money or time—volunteering or any other forms of helping could be helping with knowledge or expertise or financial assistance,” Ghazvini said.
The imam welcomes anyone in the community to reach out to ICCF to learn more about Islam, the ICCF or the community in general. Visit their website here.
Watch the 12 Days of Giving video above by GV Wire’s Jahz Tello to find out more about the programs and services offered by Islamic Cultural Center Fresno.
