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Positive Impact of Ansar Outreach Drive

By: Abdul Qudoos Mahmood (Seattle, WA Majlis)

At the launch of Ansar Outreach drive, we understood the objectives of the drive, but the response was unpredictable. Fast forward, Covid-19 impacted 12-months of this year, Seattle Majlis has seen amazing and outstanding results of the initiative. A 74-members majlis which is stretched across 400 miles, forming and maintaining human level connection is a daunting task.

The Outreach drive served as a catalyst to motivate Amila members; particularly Halqa leaders, to call and meet members outside the realm of routine follow up on Tarbiyat topics, financial sacrifices, etc. On countless occasions, members appreciated a call just to inquire about their well-being and if Majlis Ansarullah could serve them in any capacity.

Sharing a few brief accounts of positive impacts of the outreach drive for the benefit of members:

A Halqa leader reported that a brother who was not actively participating in the Majlis activities, appreciated the calls so much that now he calls the Halqa leader. He also participated in Majlis chanda and Talim tests this year.

An Amila member connected with a brother. This brother was struggling and needed help with the job search. Not only this Amila member provided guidance but also helped in finding a suitable job for him.

Another brother is in the transportation business. He is on the road most of the times. A Halqa leader called him and inquired about his well-being. This brother was in Texas at the time. After the casual conversation, that brother said that I am behind in Majlis chanda but I will take care of it as soon as I return, and he did.

An Amila member knew a brother for many years but just superficially. Due to the Outreach drive, they spoke for almost an hour and learned about their common interests. They are well connected now.

A Halqa leader stated that he knows a lot more about Ansar brothers in his area because of the Outreach drive. It results in a different type of conversation.

May Allah enable us to forge a lasting relationship with our fellow Ansar brothers, Ameen.

A Nasir Staying Fit - Regular Half-Marathon Runner Runs Again

By Rashid Syed (Los Angeles Majlis)

I am happy to report to my fellow Ansar brothers that just as in previous several years, I participated this year in the 25th Surf City Marathon and 1/2 Marathon, Huntington Beach, California.

Due to COVID, this year's marathon was re-scheduled from first Sunday in February, to September's 11, 2021. It also had less than usual participants. Typically it has 25,000 - 30,000 participants, as compared to 17,000 this year. An event like this requires lots of volunteers, and this year approximately 2,000 volunteers donated their time for the event.

This year an eighty-one year young lady was recognized, who finished 13.1 miles (1/2 marathon).

Three years ago I had a back surgery for a bulge disc, but that didn't stop me from taking part in marathons. The funds raised by this event help different charities.

As a former Zaeem of Los Angeles for six years, I know a good percentage of Ansars who are active in some kind of physical activity. However, there is a large percentage of Ansars, who are not physically active.

I encourage all my Ansar brothers to please spare 15-20 minutes a day, at least 3-5 days a week. If for some reason, you are not able to get out, get a stationary bike or a treadmill, get working on it, when ever you get some time during the day.

May Allah enable us to stay fit and healthy through these kind of activities (Ameen)

Send us your stories of brotherhood, Ijtima memories, or any other inspiring experience that we can share with Ansar brothers via this e-newsletter.

Department of Publications Majlis Ansarullah USA

   ♦  Sadr Majlis
   ♦  Editor