The Muslim American Society - MAS Chicago sincerely thank you for another successful dinner and is prepared to capitalize on this community's support and momentum in the coming year.

Past Sunday, April 15, over 1200 leaders and community members attended MAS Chicago's annual fundraising dinner. Over $320,000 in pledges were collected to fund a major overhaul and expansion of MAS Chicago's Bridgeview center.

Imam Zaid Shaker was among three notable guests who headlined this year's dinner. His speech, which dealt with the importance of building and maintaining one's character around the model set by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), resonated throughout the packed banquet hall. He reminded attendees that investing in a Muslim institution is an investment in Islam, and an investment in Islam is an integral component of a righteous Muslim character.

Azhar Usman and Yahya Hawwa were the other two distinguished guests. Usman, an Indian-American Muslim comedian best known for his role in "Allah Made Me Funny" ofical muslim comedy tour, entertained the crowd with stand-up comedy. Hawwa, a Syrian-based singer known for his songs on the Syrian Revolution, energized the crowd and mobilized them with a message of strongwill and determination.    MAS Chicago stresses the importance of youth development and giving students an opportunity to display their talents to the community. Malek Nahhas, a student from MAS Chicago's Qur'an Institute, opened the event with a beautiful recitation from the Holy Book.

  MAS Chicago also recognized a number of the community's most effective leaders. Sister Ameena Matthews was awarded the Community Service Award for her dedicated efforts aimed to interrupt violence around the city. Brother Eddie Redzovic was awarded the Good Word Award for the insightful discussions he hosts on his TV show known as The Deen Show. Dr. Abdel R. Amine was awarded the Visionary Leadership Award for his dedication to improving the condition of the Muslim community here in Chicago and around the country.

MAS Chicago is excited to take advantage of the momentum displayed during this year's fundraising dinner. With the Center's expansion project finding increased support from the community, MAS Chicago is in a greater position to serve the needs of Muslims in America. MAS Chicago is indebted to you because this cannot be accomplished without your nominal and financial support.