Zakat Chicago Empowerment Scholarship Program is our third signature campaign. Started in 2023, it has paved the way for life-changing educational opportunities for 21 deserving students, providing them with the resources and support needed to pursue their academic and career goals. We have partnered with Moraine Valley Community College, City Colleges of Chicago, and American Islamic College to administer this scholarship.
Many of these students are first in their families to pursue higher education. They hail from immigrant families, and some of them have been raised by single parents. They aim not only to earn a degree but also to serve as role models for others in their families and communities.
This initiative is more than financial assistance, it is a reflection of Zakat Chicago’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering empowerment, and eliminating barriers to higher education. By enabling access to quality education, the scholarship program empowers students to unlock their full potential, achieve their dreams, and ultimately become financially independent. Beyond transforming their own lives, these students transition from being recipients of aid to active contributors to their communities, building a stronger and more equitable society.
The importance of education is deeply rooted in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) highlighted its significance, saying:
طَلَبُ الْعِلْمِ فَرِيضَةٌ عَلَى كُلِّ مُسْلِمٍ
“Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 224)
