President of the United Mission for Relief and Development (UMR) and Adjunct Professor at Indiana University – USA

A special episode on Philanthropic Work in America featured an exclusive interview with Dr. Abed Ayoub, President & CEO of the United Mission for Relief and Development (UMR) and Adjunct Professor at Indiana University. The discussion highlighted UMR, founded by Dr. Ayoub in 2013, focusing on health, education, and refugee support. It also addressed the challenges facing humanitarian work, particularly after the events of September 11 and their impact on Islamic organizations.

Key Points:

• The episode sheds light on the efforts of the United Mission for Relief and Development in the United States, emphasizing its role in advancing Philanthropic Work and sustainable development for underserved communities, it is now operating in 24 countries.

• UMR specifically focuses on developing health and education programs, distributing food baskets, and sponsoring orphans. These activities significantly improve the lives of many in need.

• The organization relies on the support of the American Muslim community, with a particular emphasis on donations and zakat contributions. This support helps maintain the organization’s independence in its decisions and directions.

• UMR aids refugees in conflict zones, including Syrians and Palestinians, partnering with international organizations such as UNRWA to support relief programs.

• Humanitarian organizations working in Palestine face significant challenges related to political classifications and international pressures, which affect their ability to provide essential aid to Palestinian refugees.

• UNRWA plays a crucial role in supporting Palestinian refugees by offering education and employment opportunities. The agency assists displaced Palestinians in countries such as Jordan and Lebanon.

• Schools in Gaza have been converted into shelters due to dire circumstances. This shift impacts education and limits children’s ability to learn in a safe environment.

• humanitarian work in Palestine requires extreme caution regarding terrorism classifications. Organizations need to be well-versed in international and local laws to avoid negative designations.

• U.S. policies significantly influence humanitarian work, especially concerning Islamic organizations. This influence has been evident in the challenges faced by these organizations after the events of September 11.

• Humanitarian aid in Gaza demands collaboration with politically influential entities to access the region. Relationships with both U.S. and Israeli governments are necessary to ensure the delivery of aid.

• Using hunger as a tool to pressure populations is a violation of international laws. Humanitarian organizations must advocate for securing food and medicine for affected civilians.

• Humanitarian organizations face major challenges in sending funds and aid to Afghanistan, mirroring difficulties in other conflict zones.

• The inability to transfer funds due to banking restrictions affects relief efforts in Afghanistan. Aid organizations should explore partnerships with UN agencies to facilitate transfers and implementation.

• Relief institutions encounter significant difficulties in transferring funds due to banking restrictions, making collaboration with UN agencies essential. Such steps can enhance the effectiveness of aid delivery.

• While there are concerns regarding UN agency programs, these agencies offer facilities that benefit humanitarian organizations, including banking arrangements that streamline project execution.

• The concept of philanthropic work has evolved significantly, with increasing overlap between philanthropy and commercial goals. Organizations must strive to maintain the purity of Philanthropic Work and return to its foundational principles.

• All Philanthropic programs must comply with Sharia standards to ensure their acceptance and validity. This requires clear definitions and reviews of the terms used in humanitarian work.

• The Democratic Party in the U.S. shows greater openness toward the Muslim community compared to Republicans. This openness enhances collaboration in humanitarian fields.

• The experience of Philanthropic organizations in Kuwait is an example to be followed, as the Kuwaiti people are distinguished by their giving and generosity. Kuwaiti philanthropic work is not subject to centralization but rather allows freedom in giving.
• There is a balance in Kuwait between oversight and freedom, facilitating the work of foreign institutions. The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires institutions to register before granting the necessary permits to operate.

• Kuwaiti institutions emphasize the importance of collaboration in humanitarian work. Effective partnerships among various organizations are essential for achieving shared goals and responding to crises.

• Collaboration between Kuwaiti institutions and foreign associations enhances the effectiveness of humanitarian projects. This cooperation includes joint initiatives in several countries, particularly in Africa.

• Philanthropic Work should be complementary rather than competitive. Kuwaiti institutions are well-positioned to contribute to both funding and execution for better outcomes.

• Philanthropic associations should remember the importance of thanking ALLAH for the blessings and abilities that enable them to help those in need.

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