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 is a native of Atlanta who now resides in Dayton, Ohio. She has also lived in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Grenada, West Indies. She discovered Islam in 1994, and her faith, spirituality, and personal development have been the driving force in her life ever since. A graduate of Georgia State University with a degree in Communication, Akanke focused on film, TV, and cultural anthropology during her studies. Her career is diverse, and her interests span various media platforms. From producing TV and radio shows to creating documentaries, coaching individuals towards empowerment, creating and exhibiting unique abstract paintings, providing public speaking guidance, delivering leadership training, and lending her voiceover talent to various projects, she strives sincerely to make a lasting and authentic impact wherever she goes. Akanke has been a dedicated supporter of MANA since 2007, currently serving as the organization’s Board Vice President. In this role, she plays a key part in shaping the organization’s vision and strategy. Additionally, she serves as the part-time Communications Director, where she excels in crafting compelling communication tools, including newsletters, articles, graphic designs, and social media campaigns. Through her work with MANA, Akanke continues to make a positive difference, using her talents and passion to uplift and inspire others.
