Dear John,

This month, we gathered at the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn, Michigan to support an important cause and celebrate the accomplishments of CLDP fellows from the 2022 cohort, Ibrahim Ahmad and Nour Ali. The fellows interned with Republican Congressman Darrell Issa and Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens, respectively.

The event was a testament to MPAC's commitment to the future. Through our Congressional Leadership Development Program (CLDP), we aim to prepare the next generation of American Muslim leaders. Our co-founder, Salam Al-Marayati recognizes the importance of empowering American Muslim youth to become engaged and effective leaders in politics. He firmly believes that our community needs a seat at the table. Nurturing and elevating the next generation of American Muslim leaders has been a guiding principle of MPAC since its inception 35 years ago, and it remains a key priority for us today.

CLDP provides young American Muslims with placements and leadership development opportunities on Capitol Hill, all at zero cost to the fellow. By offering housing and a stipend, we aim to make this life-changing opportunity accessible to all. The program plays a crucial role in enabling our youth to gain experience and exposure to the political process, which will ultimately help them become better leaders in the future. Through CLDP, we aspire to create a pipeline of young Muslim leaders who will make a difference in their communities, from Washington, D.C. all the way to Dearborn, MI.

Speaking with the Dearborn community served as a powerful reminder that in a nation often polarized by politics, we must strive not to allow divisiveness to spill into our own communities. As American Muslims, who are already underrepresented, we need to unite in pursuit of uplifting our voices and creating space for our families and our community in our country's government.

As the Policy Program Manager, I am committed to continuously improving the program to provide the best possible experience for our fellows. This includes allocating more resources, enhancing training opportunities, and fostering diversity. We firmly believe that in this diverse ecosystem, we can foster creativity, innovation, and progress, while simultaneously building a more just and equitable society.

As Muslims, it is our duty to support initiatives that help our community grow and thrive. Our youth are the future of our community, and we must invest in their development if we want to see them succeed in all areas of life. Today, I am reaching out to you with a special request for your support.

I am thrilled to announce that we have a generous donor who has offered to match all donations up to $1,000. This means that your contribution will have double the impact, allowing us to provide even more resources, training, and opportunities for young American Muslim students looking to build careers in public service.

By donating to our cause, you are not only investing in the future of our community, but also in the future of Islam in America. Our youth have tremendous potential, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Together, we can help shape the next generation of American Muslim leaders who will make a difference in their communities and contribute to the progress of our nation.

On behalf of MPAC and the young leaders we serve, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your support. May Allah (SWT) bless you abundantly for your generosity, and may your donation pave the way for a better tomorrow.

Thank you once again for your consideration and support.

Warm regards,

Lubna Hassan Heikal
Policy Program Manager
Muslim Public Affairs Council