Muslimat Al-Nisaa Shelter received the inaugural Black History Month Community Leaders Award from the Governor of Maryland.
According to the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism (GOSV), the Black History Month Community Leaders Awards recognize Maryland-based, African American-founded organizations that provide volunteer service to improve Maryland communities for all.
On February 26, 2018, an awards ceremony was held for the recipients of the award at the Banneker-Douglass Museum, Maryland’s official museum of African American history.
Van Brooks, the director of GOSV, presented the awards. “We are fortunate to have a strong culture of service and volunteerism throughout Maryland,” said Brooks. “With this new awards program, we are pleased to recognize the many African American leaders in our great state who dedicate countless hours and energy to serve our communities and change Maryland for the better,” he added.
Muslimat Al-Nisaa Shelter operates to provide a safe haven for refugee families and women victims of domestic violence. The organization is one of the only shelters in the country that caters exclusively for Muslim women, especially refugees and their children, providing approximately 3,855 bed nights a year.
Additionally, the organization provides education on domestic violence and homelessness, food, school supplies, and health services to families, youth, and the elderly.
"Passion, sacrifice and trust in Allah is what comes to mind when I think of Muslimat Al-Nisa,” said Aurangzeb Nisar, a longtime supporter. “Sr Asma is a true leader, not just in the African American community but also in the American Muslim community,” he said.
The Black History Month Community Leaders award committee was sent over 100 nominations to be recognized, highlighting the commitment to community service present throughout Maryland organizations.
The final selections were based on nominations that described the highest degree of meaningful volunteer commitment and service, making a transformative impact in the community. Ultimately, 10 organizations were selected to receive the honor in recognition of their efforts to make a difference in the community.
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