DEARBORN — On Sunday October 21 the Islamic Institute of Knowledge (IIOK) located on Schaefer Road held their semi-annual fundraising dinner, where hundreds of guests turned out to support the organization and get the latest updates on a center that has established itself in the Dearborn community since 1983.

The event, emceed by Bilal Amen, included a recitation of the Holy Qur’an and included speeches from IIOK chairman Dr. Kassem Charara, Riverside Academy Principal Mr. Ramzi Saab and Imam Abdul Latif Berry. Dinner for the event was prepared, served and donated by Habib Bazzi of Habib’s Cusine. 

Imam Abdul Latif Berry discussed some important topics during his time on the stage including the current conditions of the Arab world, stating that it’s important that Muslims stay united and not fall into the traps of division. 

Riverside Academy Principal Mr. Ramzi Saab took the stage following the Imam’s speech to discuss some updates about the charter school’s academic progress. Riverside Academy, located right next door to the IIOK, is an independently operated school run by Global Educational Excellence.

During his speech, Principal Saab announced that Riverside Academy was awarded as a “Reward” school by the state of Michigan. In the last year, the institution saw its rankings surge from the 9th percentile all the way to the 27th percentile, making it one of the most improved schools in the state. Principal Saab stated that an important part of a student’s education requires constant involvement from the parents, encouraging them to engage with both their children and their teachers.

According to Principal Saab, in the last year,  50 of the students that graduated from Riverside Academy received a total of $1.7 million dollars in scholarships to continue their education in college. Principal Saab stressed on the importance of his school’s ciriculum which motivates and prepares students for college classes, citing some programs such as the Dual enrollment program which allows a high school student to advance into college courses even while they are still in high school. 

“You may lose your house, you may lose your car, but you will never lose your degree. A degree is a passport to the future,” Principal Saab stated. 

But the evening didn’t just focus on faith and education, the night’s program also dedicated a portion about discussing the importance of casting a vote during the upcoming General Elections. 19th District Court Judge candidate Sam Salamey was also in attendance and reminded voters that this year’s race could show what kind of impact the community can make if they come out to vote on election day. 

Dr. Kassem Charara, chairman of the IIOK welcomes guest to the organization’s semi annual fundraising dinner.

Also in attendance at the event was the Deputy Mayor from Tibnene, Lebanon, Hajj Yousef Fawaz, who presented an honorary plaque to Imam Abdul Latif Berry. Hajj Fawaz was also supposed to present a proclamation from the city of Tibneen to Mayor of Dearborn Jack O’Reilly, but according to the IIOK, the Mayor did not show up. Also present at the event was representation from Congressman John Dingell’s office. Debbie Dingell, the congressman’s wife was in attendance in his honor. 

In a brief interview with Chairman Dr. Charara after the event, he tells The Arab American News that the fundraiser was a success, raising over $100,000 for the center. 

“We would like to thank the community for everything that they have done for this center. We are proud to be part of the community on a daily basis, whether people need to come here for prayers, programs, education, or get consultations about family and social problems, this center continues to keep its doors open at all times of the day,” Dr. Charara stated.