In a heartbreaking turn of events on January 7, 2025, Masjid Al-Taqwa, a cherished house of worship in Altadena, California, was tragically destroyed by a fire. This beloved Masjid has served as a spiritual home and community hub for over two decades, nurturing faith and hosting essential services for the surrounding neighborhoods. As the community grapples with this profound loss, a glimmer of hope emerges through a dedicated fundraising campaign aimed at rebuilding this sacred space.
The Vision for Reconstruction
Led by Backer Abu-Jaradeh, a General Contractor and Electrical Engineer, the campaign seeks to restore Masjid Al-Taqwa to its former glory. Abu-Jaradeh, also the owner of Bayt Construction, has committed to overseeing the reconstruction at cost—ensuring that every dollar raised will go directly toward labor and materials without any profit margin. His dedication to the project is a testament to the community spirit that has defined Masjid Al-Taqwa for years.
A Call to Action
Launched on a crowdfunding platform, the campaign invites individuals to contribute to a goal that reflects the collective will of the community. With an initial fundraising goal that has since been raised due to an outpouring of support, the campaign aims to engage as many donors as possible, encouraging families and friends to share the initiative far and wide. As emphasized in the campaign, “Giving is better together,” highlighting the power of unity in achieving this noble cause.
The Impact of Community Support
Masjid Al-Taqwa is more than just a place of prayer; it has been a vital gathering point for cultural and community activities. Losing it represents a significant void in the lives of those who have relied on its services and fellowship. The rebuilding initiative is not only about restoring a physical structure but also about reviving a sense of community belonging and shared faith.
Throughout the campaign, many generous souls have already contributed, showcasing the profound impact of collective action. Each donation received plays a crucial role in bringing the community one step closer to realizing their vision of a rebuilt Masjid, where future generations can gather, pray, and grow together in faith.
Safety and Trust in Giving
Recognizing the importance of trust in charitable giving, the campaign is backed by a Trust & Safety guarantee, ensuring that each fundraiser is thoroughly vetted. Donors can feel secure knowing that their contributions are protected and will directly benefit the rebuilding of the Masjid.
A Message of Hope
As the community of Altadena rallies together, the words of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ ring true: “Whoever guides someone to goodness will have a reward like the one who did it.” With every effort multiplied through shared contributions, the spirit of philanthropy shines brightly, promising to restore not just a building, but faith, hope, and resilience within the community.
Conclusion
In these challenging times, the restoration of Masjid Al-Taqwa stands as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and compassion. The journey to rebuild is a testament to the dedication of a community determined to support each other. By contributing to this noble cause, you are helping to lay the foundation for a brighter future and ensuring that Masjid Al-Taqwa continues to be a beacon of hope and guidance for generations to come. Join the movement, donate today, and help reignite the light of faith in Altadena.
Link to the Fundraising Campaign
Akanke, an Atlanta native, grew up in a non-religious family. In her late twenties, she embraced Islam after an unexpected introduction to the faith while training as a television producer. Working on a live show featuring Muslim guests, she was captivated by the insightful discussions surrounding Islam. Encouraged by her colleagues, she attended Friday prayers and began reading the Quran, ultimately finding profound inspiration that solidified her decision to convert. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong passion for spirituality and personal growth rooted in her faith.
She holds a degree in Communication from Georgia State University, specializing in film, television, and anthropology. Her diverse career includes roles as a television and radio producer, life coach, voiceover artist, and abstract painter. During a decade spent in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Akanke refined her public speaking and leadership skills, mentoring women through two women-only Toastmasters clubs she founded. Above all, she emphasizes spirituality as the cornerstone of self-actualization, advocating for a life devoted to Allah. She believes personal growth and lasting success stem from a strong, loving relationship with Him.
Since 2007, Akanke has been actively involved with MANA in various capacities, including serving as Director of Communications and Board Vice President.
