August 12, 2025

Two Inspiring Recaps from Our Latest Events

Empowering Dialogue:


Reducing Stigma Through Community Workshops

On Friday, August 15, MAS-SSF hosted an inspiring workshop, “Breaking the Stigma: Community Mental Health” at Tarbiya House Roseville. The session was led by Sister Nazia Khan, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, who offered practical strategies for opening conversations and building greater awareness around mental health in our community. This was the third time we’ve hosted this workshop, and each session has been welcomed with great interest and appreciation from the community.


Following her presentation, Sister Nazia was joined by MAS-SSF Executive Director, Gulshan Yusufzai, for a lively Q&A panel where they addressed questions from nearly 30 attendees. The audience included youth participants from the Tarbiya Nizami program, ages 14–16, who engaged thoughtfully in the discussion.


This workshop not only provided valuable education but also created a safe space for dialogue—helping our community take meaningful steps toward compassion, understanding, and support for positive mental health. MAS-SSF staff members were present to share information about our services and also encouraged attendees to do what they can to break the stigma associated with seeking support.


We’re grateful for the opportunity to foster these meaningful conversations within our community.

Snapshots from the Workshop

Play and Learn Parent and Child Sessions Launched!

On Monday, August 18th, the Shifa for Youth Program proudly launched a new initiative designed to support newcomer families with children ages 0–5. For the day, our counseling room was transformed into a bright and welcoming play space filled with color, laughter, and learning.


We hosted two sessions—morning and afternoon—where six families (eight parents and ten children) joined us. Parents enjoyed refreshments, children received goody bags, and families left with small gift cards. Together, we explored available services and discussed the benefits of developmental screenings to ensure every child is ready for school.


Our sessions focused on two goals:


  • Helping children grow confident and comfortable as they prepare for school.
  • Empowering parents with tools, guidance, and faith-based strategies to nurture healthy, thriving families.


Parents shared their appreciation:



  • “I’m really glad you’re offering this—it means so much for my child to be around other Muslim children.”
  • “We are happy to learn about positive parenting in our own language.”


If you’d like to join with your child under 5, please contact Hamed

at (916) 249-8818. Weekly registration is required.

Learn How to Protect Your Family from Harmful Chemicals in Your Home


The Center for Environmental Health is hosting an Afghan Refugee Community Workshop on Tuesday August 26th in the UC Davis Medical Education Building. This adults-only event requires advanced registration – see flyers for more details.


Download a flyer in English, Farsi or Pashto and a map of the UC Davis Health complex then reserve your spot for this free workshop about keeping your family safe and healthy.

ENGLISH

FARSI

PASHTO

REGISTER HERE

Our Mission

MAS-Social Services Foundation is a non-profit that aims to aid families at large

and the Muslim community in particular with their social services needs.

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info@mas-ssf.org | www.mas-ssf.org

(916) 486-8626 | 9 AM - 5 PM

3820 Auburn Blvd. #83 Sacramento, CA 95821