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: [email protected]
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
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