Muslim Community Center �ews A Publication of the Muslim Community Center for Human Services

7600 Glen View Dr. Richland Hills TX 76180

Phone (817) 589– 9165 (Metro)

Email: mcchs2005@hotmail.com

Websites: www.mcc-hs.org www.roshni-mcc.org

Volume XIII, �o. 2 July 2008

Board of Directors M. Basheer Ahmed, MD

Chairman, 817-572-4981

Imam Dr. Yusuf Kavacki

Religious Advisor, 972-231-5698

Mr. Aftab Siddiqui

Vice Chair, 817-706-7495

Mr. Ismail Tahir, CPA

Treasurer, 817-819-1717

Mrs. Saleha Haleem

817-481-1078

Mr. �oorul H. Siddiqui

817-483-4888

Mrs. Saulet Kureshy

817-496-1766

Mr. Kalim Saiyed

817-656-1125

Mrs. �ajma Ghouse

214-797-4663

Mr. �aeem Choudhry

469-576-0707

Staff

Ms. Talaun Thompson LMSW

Program Director

�uha Rafeek BS

Outreach Coordinator

�aureen Raza BA

Clinic Manager

Afshan Azeem BS

MISSIO� & VISIO� STATEME�T

M CCHS is dedicated to empowering underserved communities residing in the Dallas/Ft. Worth

Metroplex, to face complex challenges created by duality of culture and lack of appropriate medical and

social services.

Our long-term vision is to develop a community of people who are thriving and striving to maintain a

harmonious family structure by offering counseling and education to prevent marriage discord, domestic

violence and child abuse. MCC plans to offer counseling services and shelter for the victims of domestic vio-

lence from Middle Eastern and South East Asian region for whom services are currently not available due to

cultural and language barriers.

Editorial �oorul Siddiqqui

It is middle of Summer, and I hope you all had an enjoyable Spring and are planning for a great 4th of

July weekend. The Staff and Board of Directors of Muslim Community Center for Human Service wish you

and your family the very best of Summer in 2008. With the grace of Allah and your generous support, MCC

continues to provide the community with Health and Human services in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex. We

would like to share the progress of our projects and are looking forward to hear your comments, suggestions,

and advice.

In this issue you will see a nice article written by Terry Lee Goodrich in Fort Worth Star Telegram

on the Newly planned Eye Clinic at Al-Shifa. It is with your generous donations that MCC was able to achieve

this mile-stone. Additionally it is the generosity of our Optometrist, Ophthalmologist and volunteers that this

clinic will be a success. Future mile-stones in planning are a Dental Clinic and a Shelter for Women and Chil-

dren.

You will also read about a very successful cross cultural regional conference that MCC hosted in col-

laboration with Dean Hernandez of University of Texas at Arlington’s School of Social Work, the conference

highlighted various faiths; Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Hinduism, and provided the religious and cultural

perspective on Domestic Violence. It tried to answer the question of whether it is religion or culture that

causes this awful blemish on society.

In this issue we will also inform you about the Humanitarian day health fair that was organized by

MCC at the Martin Luther King Center in South Dallas. Several Muslim organizations came together to dis-

tribute clothes, shoes, hygiene packs, school supplies, and food cans to the underserved neighborhoods.

Thank you for your compassionate, considerate, financial, and kind support of Muslim Community

Center for Human Services. We look towards you to be a partner with MCC for the future success of this

A Tribute to Ms. �ajma Ghouse

Mrs. Najma Ghouse, a member

of the Board of Directors, passed

away after a brief illness on May

22, 2008. Najma has been in-

volved as a volunteer in commu-

nity of North Texas. After gradu-

ating from United Way Leader-

ship program, she served on the

boards of Red Cross, Pakistan

Society and many other organi-

zations. She served on the board

of MCC for the last four years

and devoted her time and effort

with sincerity and commitment

to develop the Domestic Vio-

lence Program.

Najma was a bright star among

thousands of twinkling stars,

whose compassionate and Com-

mitted Volunteer Services to

victims of domestic violence will

be remembered for many years.

Star-Telegram, Saturday July 5th 2008- Section Religion Richland Hills Muslim Center offers aid to the needy by Terry L. Goodrich With the increase in people losing jobs and healthcare benefits, the clinic at the Muslim Community

Center for Human Services is adding medical services to meet the needs, center officials say. The clinic, which

opened in 1998, will begin offering eye care on July 20, said Aftab Siddiqui, the center’s vice chairman. It also

recently expanded care for women and children. The center’s Al-Shifa Clinic (the Healing Place) provides free

and low-cost medical and social services to the uninsured, regardless of nationality or religious faith. The

clinic is open Saturdays, and physicians who volunteer there see more than 1,000 patients annually, Siddiqui

said.

An optometrist and ophthalmologist will begin donating their services on the second and third Sun-

days of this month. And recently, physicians began offering specialized care for children and women on first,

second and fourth Sundays each month, instead of just one Sunday a month. Optometrist Shama Dean of Fort

Worth, a volunteer, said the clinic will give prescriptions for glasses and contacts and screen for conditions

such as glaucoma, cataracts and diabetes. "We’re blessed to be able to give back to the community and help

out," she said.

Rabi Hassan, 40, of Arlington, who owns a shipping company, said he was without health insurance

during a brief period between jobs. His son developed rashes because of an allergy, and the clinic was

"fabulous," he said. "It was good to know somebody was available when you needed them."

MCC’s Second Regional Conference –

Domestic Violence Cross Cultural Perspective

University of Texas – Arlington June 14th 2008 Cultural pattern does not cause domestic violence but cer-

tainly creates an environment that foster and maintain conditions

which promote domestic violence. The conference, co-sponsored by

School of Social Work, UTA, examined the cultural influences on

the prevalence and incidence of Domestic Violence. It was supported

by my many local organizations namely Tarrant County Medical

Society, United Way of Tarrant County, Multi Cultural Alliance, and

Islamic Center of Metroplex. Over 150 professional and community

leaders participated and interacted with all the speakers of the con-

ference during the panel discussing.

Dean Hernandez of School of Social Work, UTA opened

the meeting with pointing out the special interest of School of Social

Work in the subject of Domestic Violence, specially the research on

preventive aspects. Two prominent Muslim scholars Imam Bakhach

and Dr. Kavakci eloquently described their involvement in domestic

violence program and their efforts to reduce or eliminate this uncivi-

lized human behavior. Dr. Susan Blue, the president of the Board of

Trusty of Tarrant County Medical Society, shared her personal inter-

est in the subject of domestic violence and advised health profession-

als to pay attention towards screening the patients for domestic vio-

lence by showing compassion, patience and asking right questions.

Dr. Ahmed, Program Chairman of the conference, in his

opening remarks defined domestic violence elaborating the incidence

of domestic violence in general population as well as various racial

and ethnic groups. Dr. Najma Adam presented cross cultural per-

spective. Mrs. Ramani, Mrs, Alwani and Dr. Myers discussed the

Hindu, Muslim and Jewish perspective of Domestic Violence. Rosa-

lyn elaborated the effects of Domestic Violence on children, Judge

Cummings of Fort Worth and Erin Hendricks, Dallas County Prose-

cutor, presented the legal aspects of Domestic Violence. Dr. Nizam

Peerwani, the medical examiner clarified that honor killing is not

permitted in Islamic religion although it is prevalent in Middle East.

Yasmin Turk, from Austin-Texas, shared the new information re-

lated to prevention of Domestic Violence. All MCC’s Board mem-

bers, staff and volunteers assisted in making the conference a suc-

Humanitarian Award Press Release Another Muslim hoists a proud community service flag in the

Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex. The more good things we can do, in our

service to mankind, the more respect we will earn in the society. I am

pleased to share this mo-

mentous occasion at the

Tarrant County Medical

Society's Annual dinner

event on Friday, January

25th, 2008 in Fort Worth.

Dr. Basheer Ahmed was

recently honored with the

2008 Humanitarian Award

from the Tarrant County

Medical Society, an or-

ganization representing

more than 3000 physicians

in the local area. The Humanitarian Award honors a physician for ex-

ceptional volunteer service above and beyond the scope of a medical

practice. The award ceremony took place on January 25, at the Fort

Worth Club. The ceremony was started with an invocation by Imam

Moujahed Bakhach of Fort Worth.

In addition to his expertise as a psychiatrist, M. Basheer Ah-

med, M.D., is a fundraiser, community mental health advocate, and so-

cial activist. Over the past 15 years, he has served as Chairman of the

Board and Executive Director for the Muslim Community Center for

Human Services located in Fort Worth. This organization offers a free

medical clinic with a special emphasis on understanding the Muslim

community, free counseling services, a free domestic violence hotline,

health fairs, and other services to those in need.

A native of Hyderabad, India, Ahmed, immigrated to the

United States in 1968. Prior to this, he obtained his medical degree from

Dow Medical College in Karachi, Pakistan, and completed postgraduate

psychiatric studies at Glasgow University in Scotland. He is board certi-

fied by the American Board of Psychiatry. He is also a distinguished

Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

In addition to his educational and philanthropic accomplish-

ments, Ahmed has held faculty positions at the Albert Einstein College

of Medicine in New York City, NY; Wright State University in Dayton,

Ohio; and was professor of Psychiatry at Southwestern Medical School

in Dallas, Texas. In 1985, Ahmed established a private practice in Fort

Worth, Texas.

Ahmed is past president of the Islamic Medical Association of

North America and past president of the Islamic Association of Tarrant

County.

The meeting was attended by the executive committee of the

Tarrant County Medical Society, past recipients of Humanitarian

Award, the members of the Medical Society, the board members of

MCC for Human Services, volunteer physicians of Al Shifa Clinic, and

many supporters of MCC projects.

Talaun Thompson, Saliha Haleem, Saulet Kureshy, �ajma Ghouse,

Basheer Ahmed, �oorul Haq, Ismail Tahir, Imam Bakash, �aeem

Chaudhry, Kaleen Sayed, Tariq Khan, Aftab Siddiqui.

Health Fair Aftab Siddiqui

Muslim Community Center launched its social and health services program with

a health fair in 1995, which was held in the premises of Ameen Peoples School in Arling-

ton. More than 300 community members showed up to take advantage of health services

being provided by a group of dedicated physicians and health professionals. MCC has

been organizing a comprehensive health fair on annual basis in different locations of Dal-

las-Fort Worth Metroplex. These health fairs have been held in Arlington,

Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, and Mid-cities and served over 5,000 individuals. MCC organ-

izes these health fairs with the active cooperation of community physicians, health profes-

sionals, and volunteers.

Unlike the usual health fairs, MCC strives to provide more services including

blood screening for cholesterol and sugar, screening for hypertension, mammogram, flu

shots, eye checks, dental checks, ear checks, and female physicians for ladies. The major

purpose is to detect common health problems like hypertension, diabetes, and high choles-

terol. These diseases may lead to serious health problems if not detected at earlier stages.

On the average, 10 to 15 individuals are identified who are in need of serious medical

care. Such patients are referred to physicians in the Muslim community, public hospitals,

or Al-Shifa Clinic.

MCCHS organized the last health fair on 17th May 2008 in South Dallas to serve

the underserved neighborhoods. The Health Fair was a component of a larger event

(Humanitarian Day) where many Muslim organizations came together to distribute

clothes, shoes, hygiene packs, school supplies, and food cans at MLK Center.

The Health Fair was set up in the reception area of the MLK Center. A hundred

families took advantage of the services offered at the event. A dedicated group of volun-

teers from the Ismaili Community, Al-Shifa Clinic, and assisted the patients. Three hun-

dred and fifty checkups and tests were performed by the volunteers. These checkups in-

cluded obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and prostate (males) tests. Five physicians includ-

ing a dentist advised the participants on their health and wellness. Fourteen female partici-

pants registered for free mammogram screening at a later day. Informational booths on

teenage pregnancy, safety, breast cancer awareness, domestic violence, and MCC pro-

grams on domestic violence were well attended.

MCC is thankful to organizers of Humanitarian Day and administration of MLK

Center for providing this opportunity to serve the underserved population of South Dallas.

Volunteers at

Clinic & Health Fairs Aftab Siddiqui

Najma Ghouse

Ismail Tahir

Naeem Chaudry

Noor Siddiqui

Seema Siddiqui

Kalim Saiyed

Saulet Kureshy

Tariq Khan

Zeba Salim

Rashid Khan

Saleha Haleem

Farooq Huda

Maria Raza

Maur Khalil

Aqib Saiyed

Seemab Arshad

Hena Hyder

Nuha Muntajibuddin

Sana Muntajibuddin

Safa Muntajibuddin

Taha Muntajibuddin

Mohsin Shaheed

Tahera Bano

Fouzia Hasan

Fatima Tazeen

Syed Faraz

Mehreen Khan

Asli Parker

Lubna Khurshid

Ayesha Mohiuddin

Osama Nachawati

Hala Nachawati

Naseem Ilyas

Kaneez Karmally

Nabile Chahine

Ibrahim Hussein

Kasim Khalil

Alia Selim

Muneera Hussain

Salim Sayani

Samina Amin

Ghulam Samdani

Mike Ghouse

Shire Kelly

Sarah Bachman

Dana Vross

Hayligh Johnsom

Zeba Jetpuri

Syed Humza

Stilla Hu

Rahat Hashim

Nasira Khan

Kate Armstrong

Wiam Qasan

Amit Nargrai

Archaca Nargrai

Fatima Khatija

M. Acbatainch

Dender Mann

Robina Hozri

Trucky Train

Nudarat Shah

Tahzeen Khan

Ruhiqa Shah

Mubina Raza

Abu Bakar

Al-Shifa Clinic M. Basheer Ahmed M.D.

25% of Texans have no medical insurance and the immigrant community has the

highest rate of uninsured individuals. Those families who have good insurance may lose it

if their bread-winner loses his/her job. Individuals who earn more than poverty level,

along with illegal residents or visitors to the United States, are not eligible to receive free

medical care at public hospitals and clinics. In view of these health care issues, Al-Shifa

Clinic was opened in October 1998 to provide medical care to the underserved commu-

nity. This private not-for-profit agency provides culturally appropriate primary care to the

medically underserved population, namely, indigent patients and overseas visitors without

insurance coverage. The weekly clinic provides services for diabetes, hypertension, high

cholesterol, minor infections, and other general medical problems. If these problems are

not treated at an early stage, they may develop into more serious problems, such as heart

disease, stroke, or kidney failure. For more complicated medical problems, patients are

referred to the area’s public hospitals and public clinics. Fifteen area physicians come on rotation each Saturday and donate their time.

Free consultation and medications are provided, and most of the physicians donate medi-

cation samples from their offices. In 2002, discounted rates were negotiated for lab work,

and now laboratory services are provided. Since many Muslim women prefer to see fe-

male physicians, due to religious and cultural modesty, in 2007 the clinic decided to open

one Sunday a month to treat women and children only. From January 2008, the Women

Clinic opens three Sundays a month. Two female physicians and one pediatrician volun-

teer their time. Premedical and medical students, TCU Nursing students and other volun-

teers also provide needed services at the clinic. Al-Shifa Clinic served 1,200 patients dur-

ing 2006; in 2008, the number may rise to 2,000 patients. During the later part of 2007 we

provided free flue immunization to senior citizens and children at the clinic.

Breast Cancer Education: We hired a part time Out Reach Coordinator to work with

Arabic speaking community and we are expecting to reach a larger number of people for

Breast Cancer Education and Mammogram. Susan G. Komen Foundation has funded this

position.

MCC Thanks to

Volunteers

Physicians

Al-Shifa Clinic M.Basheer Ahmed, MD

Siraj Hussain, MD

Daud Ashai, MD

Riaz Haider, MD Khwaja Anwar, MD Yama Amin, MD

Hamid Burney, MD Ladi Haroona, MD

�ikhat Qureshi, MD

Jalil Khan, MD

Muhammad Khan, MD

Laila Heergi, MD Iqbal Mughal, MD

Hassan Farooq, MD

Mehreen Malik, MD

Hujefa Vora, MD

Amir Malik, MD

�adeem Patel, MD

Anila Patel, MD

Keisha Shaheed, MD

Shahida Khan, MD

Volunteers

Physicians

Health Fair Mahmood Khan, MD

Mahmood Panjwani, MD

Abdul Razaak, MD

Nauman Anwar, MD

Shabnam Qasim, MD

Adila Siddiqui, MD

Rubina Khan, MD

Sobia Ghazali, MD

Tahir Ali, MD

Mohammed Khalid, MD

Inayat Lalani, MD

Nirmal Saran, MD

Shakila Ahmed, MD

Zohra Khan, MD

Basit Ghazali, MD

Naila Malik, MD

Urussa Jabbar, MD

Asif Hussain, MD

Shahnaz Saleem, MD

Tehmina Hussain, MD

Hanan Elsaie, MD

Pervaiz Rehman, MD

Humera Choudhry, MD

Raheela Hafeez, MD

Irfan Shah, MD

Atique Khan, MD

Shakila Ahmed, MD

Majid Sehat, DDS

Wiam Osman, MD

Batool Asar, MD

Syed A. Haleem, MD

Ovais Mohiuddin, MD

Adila Siddiqqui, MD

Asif Hussain, MD

Rubina Khan, MD

Domestic Violence – Case Report Saulet Kureshy , Talaun S. Thompson, LMSW

MCC has trained 16 volunteers in the Dallas/Fort Worth

Metroplex. MCC "Roshni" Domestic Violence Program volunteers

attend to the hotline and provide peer counseling and referral services.

We provide case management, counseling and refer serious cases to

the local shelter.

Case Study

*Afra’s husband is very jealous and discourages her from

having friends, talking to family members, and getting education. Her

husband has never been physically abusive, but he frequently resorted

to emotional coercion to prevent her from having contact with others,

or gaining independence.

Afra said that her husband destroys things around the house

and frequently cusses at her and calls her names. She recalls many

days when he took the telephone to work with him to ensure that she

could not use the phone when he was not home. She also spoke of

instances when her husband would call her from work and threaten to

kill her or threaten to take the children and leave the country. She

fears her husband and she said that her experiences were like being a

prisoner.

Afra said that she has difficulty concentrating and has feel-

ings of fear and depression. She said that over the years, his behavior

has gotten increasingly controlling and she needs help.

She called 817-589-0200 and spoke to one of our trained volunteers;

MCC provided support services to Afra; and if you need help we can

help you too! Our staff and trained volunteers are available to talk.

Your name and information is kept private, and is strictly confidential.

(*All names and story depictions have been changed, if any part

of this story is similar to your experience it is coincidental).

"My Spouse is Angry"

Talaun S. Thompson, LMSW Professionals who specialized in anger realize that some peo-

ple who have problems with anger tend to get upset more easily and

more intensely than the average person. Some individuals don’t ex-

press their anger in outward expression, but instead are irritable in

behavior. Anger is usually seen through expressions of cursing,

punching, throwing objects or withdrawing.

Several causes have been found to explain why some individuals are

angrier than others.

1. Genetic or Physiological: Some children have early signs of irri-

tability, and are believed to be born angrier.

2. Socio-cultural: Some individuals are not taught how to appropri-

ately express anger emotions

3. Family Background: Some individuals experiencing problems

with anger have been raised in families that did not use healthy

skills to work through anger

MCC Can Help If you feel that your anger has lead you to behave in ways

that has negatively impacted your marriage relationship; or you feel

that your spouse is expressing anger in an unhealthy way, you might

consider seeking help.

MCC “Roshni” Domestic Violence Program: MCC offers

individuals and families counseling and support services.

Our staff and trained volunteers are available to talk. Your informa-

tion is kept private, and is strictly confidential. When you call us 817-

589-0200, tell us that you have a problem with anger or domestic vio-

lence. We are here to help.

Domestic Violence Program Mission Statement

The Muslim Community Center for Human Services

(MCCHS) “Roshni” Domestic violence program’s main objective is

to promote healthy and harmonious family relationships in the Asian,

Middle Eastern, and African immigrant communities. We promote the

empowerment of women to confront and overcome the cycle of do-

mestic violence and exploitation; help the victims and survivors of

domestic abuse improve their access to services, and increase commu-

nity awareness of various forms of violence. MCCHS “Roshni” pro-

vides community education, culture-sensitive peer counseling, profes-

sional counseling, case management, client advocacy, information on

rights, how to seek help and victim compensation. MCCHS also pro-

vides shelter referrals, legal referrals and assists victim in developing

a safety plan.

We have established a separate line for the domestic violence

program and callers facing domestic violence can call 24-hours a day

at 817-589-0200. All calls are handled with extreme confidentiality.

MCC Joins Hands in Faith Based Initiative

for Disaster Planning in Tarrant County Aftab Siddiqui MCC has joined hands with a number of area churches in an

initiative led by TCU School of Nursing to prepare for any disaster

happening in Tarrant County. In the aftermath of two hurricanes –

Katrina and Rita- hundreds of displaced persons had shown up in the

area. Church organizations, Mosques and MCC had played an impor-

tant role in helping these displaced families during their times of cri-

sis. However, these efforts were not coordinated and a plan is afoot to

prepare for a coordinated effort in case of such an emergency. Two

safety fairs have been held in Darul Eman and El-Hedayah Academy

by TCU and MCC. The response from the community has been great.

Participants have been informed and educated on what steps to take in

case of a disaster. Training courses are being offered on emergency

shelters, steps to take in case of pandemic disease at mass level, or a

local disaster. Active participation in this plan will help in preparing

the community to face a disaster and also help in building bridges

with other groups and organizations in the area. After all Muslim

community is an integral part of the American society.

Member Spotlight Aftab Siddiqui BS, MBA, MPA

Aftab is the Vice Chair of the organization and is responsible

for Outreach Program (along with Ismail Tahir), Health Fairs, and De-

veloping Relations with other Social Service Agencies and Organiza-

tions. He has been affiliated as a Board Member with DFW International

and American Muslim Alliance SW. He is Member Executive Commit-

tee Tarrant County Democratic Party. He has played a key role in estab-

lishing Amnesty International, Pakistan in the nineties.

He is an active member of American Airlines' Muslim Em-

ployee Resource Group and is a Co-Chair of Family Impact Council,

United Way Tarrant County and Member Steering Committee Arlington

Human Services Planners. He is a member of Arlington Library Board

and UTA Alumni Association. He has published articles on different

subjects. MCC is proud to recognize his contribution.

Ismail Tahir MBA, CPA

Ismail Tahir is the Treasurer & Chairman of the fund develop-

ment committee and is responsible for raising the funds for the organiza-

tion and insures its financial health. His experience includes bank man-

agement, teaching accounting at TCJC and specializing in small busi-

ness, professionals and nonprofit organizations.

He is a member of the American institute of certified Public

Accountants and Texas Society of CPAs. He has written a compliance

guide for U.S Islamic Charities, listed at ISNA's website. He is a board

member of Al-Hedayah Academy, ISNA'S budget and finance commit-

tee and past president of DFW Islamic Center. MCC is proud to recog-

nize him as a Senior board member.

Talaun S. Thompson L.M.S.W.

MCC for Human Services is happy to inform that Ms. Thomp-

son, who was hired as a first full-time social worker for the center in

June 2006 has completed a very productive two years. Ms. Thompson’s

performance at MCC is exemplary. She has adjusted very well and dem-

onstrated and in depth understanding of religious and cultural unique-

ness of the community. She has made presentations at Mosques, Islamic

Centers, and developed a liaison with 60 community agencies in Dallas/

Ft. Worth area. Her primary responsibility includes helpline and domes-

tic violence projects, however, she was involved in almost all programs

of MCC.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s

degree in Sociology and Social Work from University of Texas at Ar-

lington. Ms. Thompson received a fellowship and worked as research

assistant on African studies and traveled to Ghana. Ms. Thompson’s

Thesis research pertained to marital preparation program and the extent

to which the most popular program addressed issues likely to cause

marital discard. Ms. Thompson is working on her doctoral degree in

psychology.

She is a member of the American Psychological Association,

National Association of Social Workers and inducted into Phi, chi, and

alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology honor Society.

MCC is proud to have Ms. Thompson as program director.

Helpline The Muslim Community Center for Human Services is

dedicated to serving individuals and families. MCCHS has a 24-

hour Helpline to assist individuals with medical, counseling and referral services for non-emergency calls. MCCHS serves indi-

viduals with family and marital problems, immigration, legal

services, health and other social issues.

Our counseling services include therapy for individuals,

couples, and families. MCCHS offers pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, and family counseling. Our referral direc-

tory includes Muslim and non-Muslim organizations and agen-

cies from around the Dallas and Fort Worth area.

Callers can be assisted through the Helpline if they are

experiencing any medical or social issue. MCCHS Helpline mes-

sages are kept confidential and are responded to by professional

staff within 24 hours. The MCCHS Helpline is a free service and

in 2006 we were able to serve approximately 1600 individuals

and families. English, Urdu, Hindi and Arabic speaker can be

assisted through the Helpline and there are no eligibility require-

ments.

Please contact MCCHS 817-589-9165 for all non-emergency

call for help. If the phone is busy or after hours please leave a

message and your call will be returned within 24-hours.

Muslim Foster Parents Special sessions have been held with the Child Protective

Agency explaining their role and need for Muslim foster parents.

MCC has been making extensive efforts in the community to regis-

ter Muslim Foster Parents. Numerous cases have been reported in

media where children from Muslim families have been picked up by

Child Protective Services. These kids are put in foster homes in the

transitional period before they are returned to their families or rela-

tions. Child Protective Services are interested in putting Muslim

kids with a Muslim Foster Parent, if such parents are registered with

the agency.

The registration process requires training sessions of ap-

proximately 40 hours with the Agency conveniently done in multi-

ple sessions over weekends, if needed. Foster parents can ask for

children of specific ages or gender to be placed in their homes and

these kids are there for a limited period of time. The State pays for

the upkeep of foster children and provides health insurance. MCC

cannot overemphasize the importance of having foster homes in the

Muslim community. Ongoing efforts are being made in Dallas

County to develop a foster parent program, and MCC is closely col-

laborating with the organizers.

Issues Related to Child Abuse MCC has been working with Child Protective Services, and parents

who have been involved with allegations of child abuse. Fortu-

nately, in a majority of the cases, the ‘child abuse’ was in fact the

negligence of the children by parents, and with MCC’s intervention,

many children have been returned to the parents. MCC staff has

worked with the Child Protective service agencies informing them

of the cultural uniqueness of the immigrant family, and at the same

time, explaining to the parents about the strict laws in this country

related to childcare, of which they were unfamiliar, or had little un-

derstanding. On many occasions, Dr. Basheer Ahmed has had to

write a detailed report of evaluation of the parents, and submit it to

court for positive consideration. On most cases, the children were

returned to parents provided they receive counseling from MCC and

in some, completed anger management courses from community

agencies.

Senior Citizens Program MCC recognizes the value of a healthy and happy senior citi-

zen in a family. The immigrant communities face challenging situations

for the health and happiness of their older family members. The health

problems related to seniors are somewhat different than other age

groups. MCC organizes programs especially focused on the

issues relating to seniors. These programs include

picnics in a park or community center where lunch is provided; doctors

are available to do a medical checkup; informational sessions on rele-

vant topics are held including health, immigration, MEDICARE, MEDI-

CAID. Such programs also provide an opportunity to seniors to connect

with friends and people from their peer group. Last Senior Program was

held on Sunday, May 4th, 2008 at Grapevine Lake.

Mr. Naeem Choudhry, MCC Board Member was instrumental in orga-

nizing health screening, Physician & Home Healthcare Services Educa-

tion and games and entertainment. It gave an excellent opportunity for

the seniors to enjoy.

Your Donation at Work MCCHS opens Eye Clinic at Al-Shifa

Thanks to all the donors, MCC will start offering

eye care at its Al-Shifa Charitable Clinic from 20th July

2008. The clinic will operate 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM on

2nd and 3rd Sundays of the month. It is strongly recom-

mended to get an appointment on MCC Helpline 817 589

9165.

Optometrist Shama Deen of Fort Worth will vol-

unteer her services. She will be assisted by Mr. Osama

Nachawati. Clinic will provide prescriptions for glasses

and contact lens; screen for conditions that affect eye-

sight like cataract, glaucoma and diabetes. This could not

have happened without the assistance from our donors

and volunteers.

The clinic is funded by a small grant from Harris Foun-

dation, donated equipment from Ophthalmology Associ-

ates and community donation.

Education Seminars

MCC has held periodic educational seminars covering vari-

ety of subjects including Parent/Child issues, Marital conflicts and

disharmonies, challenges women face in America, “Parents just

don’t understand”, a variety of Health issues (stroke, diabetes, can-

cer and heart disease) and mental Health issues (depression).

Radio Program A radio program had been started on Radio Fun Asia 700

AM every Sunday between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. The program offered

techniques to enhance communication skills and it was presented

with light humor and entertainment so that we could keep the lis-

tener's attention on the subject. Gradually the program became popu-

lar and we received increased number of questions related to this

subject. Mrs. Najma Ghouse and Dr. Basheer Ahmed presented this

program in 2007.

Interactive Seminar on Healthy Marriages An interactive seminar was prepared for the young couples

to present the techniques to enhance the marital relationship. The first

presentation was made in December 2006 and the second program

was presented in April 2007. The program was supported by a grant

from Texas Healthy Marriage Healthy Families Coalition. Other pro-

grams are in planning, if any group is interested in this program

please contact MCC for Human Services 817-589-9165

Outreach Program In the aftermath of 9/11 tragedy, it became imperative that

Muslim Community increases its participation in mainstream

organizations and activities. MCC decided to launch an Outreach Pro-

gram that would focus on assisting local shelters. The Program is co-

chaired by Ismail Tahir and Aftab Siddiqui and started functioning in

early 2003 and has now established a partnership with Arlington Life

Shelter (homeless shelter). Volunteers from MCC prepare and serve hot

breakfast twice a month to the homeless. They also serve dinner during

Ramadan. Star Telegram has reported on the activities of MCC volun-

teers.

Homeless Shelter: Outreach Program has served more than

3000 meals to Arlington Life Shelter in the past two years. This was

only possible due to generous donations from MCC’s supporters and

volunteers. Sisters Shaun, Carole Sturm, and Farhat Huda have played a

major role in the outreach efforts.

Back-to-School Supplies: Outreach Program has been provid-

ing back-to-school supplies to the children in the homeless shelter. The

volunteers from the program collected donations, shopped for the school

supplies, collected gift cards for shoes, prepared the school packs, and

handed over the supplies to Arlington Life Shelter. Many of these vol-

unteers are school age children. MCC is appreciative of their donation,

work, and dedication.

Food Bank: MCC has collected the canned food for the Food

Bank in the past. Dr. Ahmed has met with the directors of the Food

Bank and discussed the MCC’s participation in working on similar pro-

jects of collecting the canned food or arranging the volunteers to help at

the Food Bank – Head quarters in Fort Worth Texas.

Humanitarian Day: Mr. Aftab Siddiqui is the member of the

organizing committee. He was instrumental in organizing the health fair

at the Humanitarian Day and collecting the cloths and other necessities

to be distributed at the Humanitarian Day.

Presidential Volunteer Service Award

Muslim Community Center for Human Services is a Certifying Organization of the President’s Volunteer Services Award. This award

was established in 2003 by the President of the United States and honors individuals, families, and groups who have demonstrated a sustained

commitment to volunteer service over the course of a year.

MCC for Human Services is extremely proud to join the President of the United States in recognizing the volunteers who consistently

take the time to make a difference in the lives of others. Two MCC volunteers, Fatima Tazeen and Mehreen Khan received the Gold award and a

letter of commendation from President George W. Bush for their volunteer services at Al-Shifa Clinic for the year 2004-2005

Open House M. Basheer Ahmed M.D.

Memories of September 11, 2001, often bring fear and sor-

row to the community. To focus on the need for healing at all levels,

the Al-Shifa Clinic (The Healing Place), a free medical and social

services clinic sponsored by the Muslim Community Center for Hu-

man Services, hosted an open house and lunch on September 11,

2007. The event is also in celebration of charitable acts encouraged

during the most holy month in Islam, Ramadan, which begins on

September 12. Seventy two representatives of various agencies from Dal-

las Fort Worth area, MCC Board of Directors, Muslim Community

Leaders and religious leader participated in the Open House. Fort

Worth Star Telegram and Fort Worth Business Press publicize the

event. This event certainly increased MCC’s visibility in the commu-

nity. Imam Dr. Kavakci of Dallas addressing the Open House

International Visitors M. Basheer Ahmed M.D.

The U.S. state department arranged international Muslim leaders to

visit U.S. to show the U.S. religious and ethnic minority group function

in this country and explore the role of faith based groups in American

civic and community life. MCC was selected for presentation of their

programs and projects to the visiting guests on August 14th 2007 Dr. Ahmed arranged the presentation about MCC programs

and projects and invited the MCC board members, Imam Yousef Z.

Kavakci, Imam Mujahid Bakhach and some Muslim community lead-

ers. The following international visitors participated in the program.

Mr. Aziz Alili, Imam Islamic Center, Zagreb, Croatia;

Ms Lamya Kaddor, Asst. Prof Islamic Religious Studies, Uni. Of

Muenster, Germany; Ms. Reim Spielhaus, Board Member Muslim

Academy, Berlin, Germany;

Mr. Khalide Ibramhim, Middle East Affairs Officer, Dublin, Ireland;

Mr. E. Gokcekuyu, Communication Manager, Breda, Netherlands;

Mr. Muurat Iusuf, Mufti, Muslim Community , Constanta, Romania;

Dr. Hans A. Carlbom, Lecturer, Health and Soceitt, Malmo, Sweden,

Sheikh M.M. Toulba, Imam, S. Wales Islamic Center, Cardif, United

Kingdom

Dr. Ahmed made a brief presentation about establishment of

Muslim Community Center providing medical and social services to

the community. He emphasizes the positive relationship between Is-

lamic center of Dallas Fort-Worth area and MCC. The presentation was followed by a lively discussion about

the various issues Muslim Community is facing in the U.S. Imam

Kavakci, Bakhach and the community leaders answered many ques-

tions. The visiting leaders shared some unique problems Muslim com-

munity is facing in Europe. Everybody emphasized on the need of as-

similation of immigrant population while maintaining the cultural and

religious uniqueness.

Dr. Kavakci, Imam Bakkach & MCC Board Member with International Visitors

Presentations and Collaboration with

Community Agencies Dr. Ahmed has made several presentations at national and

international meetings. He made a presentation in San Francisco at

Nisa’s annual meeting about organizing a domestic violence program

involving Islamic centers and made a presentation on ‘Effects of

Terrorism on Children’ at the Annual Convention of Islamic Medical

Association at Durban, South Africa. Dr. Ahmed continues to repre-

sent MCC in Tarrant County Alliance on disaster planning, and serv-

ing as a Board Member at Multi-Cultural Alliance in Fort Worth

Texas.

In April 2008, Dr. Ahmed was a guest speaker at the inau-

guration of Avicenna, health services in Philadelphia, where he pre-

sented on development of free medical and social services for de-

serving community members.

What MCC �eeds

We need physicians especially female physicians, if you can give

four hours once in a month or two months please contact:

Al-Shifa clinic 817-589-9165.

We need volunteers for all other projects, if you can give a few hours a week to MCC we will definitely arrange for you to help us in the

area of your interest. Please contact: MCC 817-589-9165

We need your support. All the projects are possible by your generous financial support. Please send your tax-deductible charitable

donation to:

MCC for Human Services 7600 Glenview Dr., Richland Hills, TX 76180 817-589-916

MCC Hosts International Physicians and Health Professionals M. Basheer Ahmed M.D.

At the request of US state department through Cancer Society of Dallas, MCC hosted a brief program on Tuesday November 6th 2007, 4-

5:30pm. Seventeen physicians and health care professionals from different parts of Middle East attended the program. Dr. Basheer Ahmed, Mrs.

Saleha Haleem, Ms. Talaun Thompson, Ms. Nuha and Mrs. Asli Parker greeted the visitors on behalf of MCC. The following visitors partici-

pated in the program:

Dr. Arafa AHMED – DIR. Residency Program, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain,

Dr. Sara AL REEFY – Sr. Registrar Surgery, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain,

Ms. �evin TORKY – Program Coordinator, Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt, Egypt,

Ms. Lina �AJJAR – Coordinator, Comprehensive Breast

Care Clinic, Israel,

Ms. Amira OSMA� – Breast Cancer Awareness Project,

Galilee Society, Israel,

Dr. Muna HADDAD – Family Physician, Univ. of Science

and Technology, Jordan,

Ms. Riwa AL ATRASH – Producer, Health Segment,

Alam Al Sabah, TV, Lebanon,

Dr. Wiam AL ASHEK –Department of Family Medicine,

Al Fatah Univ., Libya,

Dr. Farida AFKARI – Sec. General, Pan-African

Organization Against AIDS, Morocco,

Dr. Hanan EL KACEMI –Radiotherapy, National Inst.

of Oncology, Morocco,

Ms. Jamila AL QASMI – Member, National Association

for Cancer Awareness, Oman,

Ms. Rabha AL SULAIMA�I – Cancer Awareness, Ministry

of Health, Oman,

Health Visitors with Dr. Ahmed & Board

Members

Ms. Loulwah ALDOKHAIYEL – Riyadh Breast Cancer Committee, Saudi Arabia,

Ms. Fatimah ALQARZAEE –VP Community Health College for Girls, S. Arabia,

Ms. Lamya ALHUSSARI – Founder, Syrian Society, Breast Cancer Protection, Syria,

Dr. May AL MAHAY�I – Founder, Syrian Breast Cancer Protection Society. Syria,

Ms. Dima �abeel HUSIE�I – Radiotherapy, Victoria Hospital, Jerusalem, West Bank

Dr. Ahmed and members of the Board and staff presented programs and activities of MCC and Human Services, specially focusing on

breast cancer education programs, focusing on Muslim immigrant community residing in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. The major goal of MCC is

to reach all adult women from Middle-East, Somalia, and South East Asia to have early screening of breast cancer by having periodic mammo-

grams. Educational programs are offered on monthly basis at different mosques, Islamic centers and housing projects giving information about

the early detection of the cancer and importance of regular mammograms. Free mammograms are arranged for individuals who have no insur-

ance coverage or are unable to afford the payment for the mammogram. followed by question-answer session and socialization with brief

reception.

Editorial Board Editor, Noor Siddiqui

Advisors, M. Basheer Ahmed, M.D., Aftab Siddiqui

Muslim Community Center �ews Muslim Community Center News is a periodic publication of the Muslim Community Center for Human Services, a non-profit, tax-

exempt organization dedicated to serving humanity in general and more specifically the Muslim community, irrespective of color, creed,

country of origin. The Muslim Community Center for Human Services is organized to empower the community to act on its own behalf to

uplift its people. To strengthen our community, to face complex challenges created by duality of culture, and lack of appropriate infrastructure

impacting the domestic, social, and economic aspects of life. To offer and seek cooperation from other organizations working for advancement

Please send your Tax Deductible Donation to:Please send your Tax Deductible Donation to:Please send your Tax Deductible Donation to:Please send your Tax Deductible Donation to: Muslim Community Center for Human Services Muslim Community Center for Human Services Muslim Community Center for Human Services Muslim Community Center for Human Services

P. O. Box 154658, Arlington, Texas 76015

http://www.mcc-hs.org/donations.html