Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, "Wealth is not diminished by charity."
[Muslim]
The Goal
Proceeds will go towards the first year, part-time salary for a Muslim chaplain position at the University of Michigan.
Our Story
For more than 20 years, the
Muslim Students Association (MSA) at the University of Michigan has been
actively contributing to the diversity of the Ann Arbor
campus community. Just as most other religious groups have a religious counselor in place
to bring guidance and stability to their communities, the Michigan Muslim
Alumni Foundation is now looking to establish the first Muslim chaplain
position at the University of Michigan.
Why is this important?
We are blessed to have a
vibrant Muslim Students Association (MSA) that has been a second family to many
students on campus. However, student communities are transient. A chaplain can provide a consistent presence
for Muslim students and the greater U-M community. This person would be a
resource to students who are trying to create a balance between their religious
values with the dynamics of college life. We contacted twelve universities from
around the country that either have a Muslim chaplain or are looking to hire
one. Many of the people we spoke to were often surprised that U-M does not have
a chaplain given the size of its Muslim student population. By contributing to
this initiative, you are making a long-term investment in the well-being of
Muslim students at U-M.
Why are we fundraising?
As a public institution,
the University of Michigan cannot financially support religious institutions.
Groups faced with this situation are then required to rely on other sources of
funding. We are asking for your
support to establish the first Muslim chaplain position at U-M. Your financial
contributions will go towards supporting a 1-year, part -time salaried
position.
I�m interested in the project but I cannot
donate.
Spreading the word is one of
the most important tasks for this campaign. If you can, please take a moment to
share the campaign page with your friends and family. Have an idea for a great gift or can donate a business service like ALIM did? Please send us an email with your opportunity! Email us at msaalumni@umich.edu
FAQs
What role will the chaplain fulfill?
A Muslim Chaplain will work to foster a cohesive and balanced Muslim
community on campus while serving as an advocate for the diverse needs and
interests of Muslim students through direct engagement with individuals, on
campus organizations, University administration, and the Michigan Muslim
community at large. He or she will also work in close collaboration with
local leadership of other faith traditions in order to enrich the overall
religious and spiritual life at the University of Michigan.
When will the
position start?
The position is anticipated
to start in January 2012.
What will be
the chaplain�s key responsibilities?
-
Provide
regular opportunities for one-on-one counseling to students on religious, personal, and
academic issue
-
Directly
assist the Muslim Students Association (MSA) with organization of educational
activities
-
Maintain
ties with other local religious institution
-
Build a relationship with the University of Michigan administration and serve as a resource to the campus community
Has a
chaplain been chosen?
No, applications have been
submitted but a final candidate has not been selected.
