A local soccer club put together in 1982 is now a 25-year-old cultural organization that’s given about $1.5 million to Arab American students in scholarship money.The Lebanese American Heritage Club will celebrate its 25th anniversary Nov. 21 at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn.

The group expanded its role in the community in 1983 at the request of the Lebanese consul general.

Founders Ali Jawad and Ali Berri

Founder Ali Jawad, now President of Armada Oil and Gas Co., said the club was originally intended to teach kids discipline and respect through soccer. It was at first called the Lebanese American Athletic Club.It was started during the civil war in Lebanon. Jawad said that it served to unite many Lebanese in the area who were otherwise divided having come from different parts of Lebanon.The club put together cultural exhibits, printed a newsletter and maintained the soccer team, which won various state championships in different leagues.In 1989, “We felt we needed to invest in education,” Jawad said.They began a fund for scholarships, giving away four $1000 awards the first year. Jawad said that as the years went by the number of awards increased to 10, 20 and 30.This year 65 $1000 scholarships were given to Arab American students demonstrating academic achievement and financial need.Jawad said that in the beginning, the group struggled to penetrate the community.“In the mid ‘80s, the community was only accustomed to religious organizations. We were the new kids on the block. We opened the door for a lot of clubs in the area.”Though the soccer team was dissolved about four years ago, Jawad said he’s in the process of bringing it back.“I love soccer. Sports are about discipline and respect.”He said that when he started the club, he didn’t expect that it would have such influence or pave the way for other groups.“We just wanted to do good things.”The celebration next Wednesday is to feature patriotic musical and dance performances paying tribute the late composer Zaki Nassif.The event coincides with the Lebanese Independence Day. Jawad said they founded the group on Nov. 16 deliberately with yearly Independence Day celebrations in mind to go along with the anniversary.About the club’s next 25 years, Jawad said “I hope the youth will start taking over because we’re tired.”He said he hopes they’ll invite him to the 50th anniversary.

The Arab American News salutes this foundational community organization.