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The Islamic Society of North America’s annual convention was held during Labor Day weekend at the Rosemont convention center just outside of Chicago, Illinois this year. Every year the convention is a mecca of a multitude of Muslim Americans, including scholars, guest speakers, and organizations that support various causes that cater to the needs, interests, and responsibilities of Muslims. Islamic Relief has been a regular exhibitor at the ISNA convention for many years. Volunteers and staff members promoted and illustrated the many projects in worldwide poverty alleviation that Islamic Relief strives for.

“This year, Islamic Relief ’s exhibit at the ISNA convention was by far one of the most successful and striking,” said Bilal Kazmi, an Islamic Relief staff member. Volunteers and staff members came from all over the United States to help promote Islamic Relief ’s work. The crew collectively incorporated their artistic abilities, strengths, and dedication to build a unique display featuring visual scenes of facts on world poverty and diseases and what Islamic Relief is doing to help aid those affected. Corners filled with burlap sacks, soil, and plants symbolized agricultural income generation projects and grain distribution to those in need. A replica of a well and mosquito netting hanging from the walls illustrated water sanitation and well construction projects along with malaria prevention measures and aid Islamic Relief has been working on.

The underlying theme of this year’s exhibit was: “Africa: Think, Care, Act.” One of the outside walls was covered with large construction paper posters displaying the theme. Visitors to the booth were encouraged to write what they felt inspired them to think, care, and act upon the most. Numerous patrons delightfully added their welcomed input. Staff members and volunteers would then proceed to give tours of the exhibit and educate peopleon the work Islamic Relief does in Africa.

With the tireless efforts of Islamic Relief’s volunteers, more than 100 orphans were sponsored at this years ISNA convention. More than 500 people registered with Islamic Relief. But most importantly, awareness and attention was brought to what people can do to help the poor and suffering around the world. With the success of this year’s exhibit, Islamic Relief’s volunteers and staff are eagerly looking forward to next year’s convention.