Population Assets

ICCI is a large, dominantly Muslim community that contains various smaller communities within it. Individuals of these various communities come from all around the Chicago-land area, including areas as far as the Southwest and Northwest suburbs. The individuals whom the ICCI community serves are all very different, and each contributes a great deal to making the community as successful as it is. However, an organization cannot thrive without the many assets that contribute to its success. Some of the many assets from the population that the ICCI serves are listed below:

• The community constitutes of many people of diverse ethnicities and backgrounds. This contributes to the well-rounded cultural atmosphere, and enhances the welcoming of others into our community.
• The diversity in the socio-economical scale is tremendous. There are doctors, lawyers, teachers, businessmen, and some unemployed or poor people. This is one of the community’s greatest assets, in which everyone, regardless of social or economic standing, prays side by side, all on an equal level. In addition to this, the community distributes money to the less fortunate, and those who are able to directly help their brothers and sisters in need.
• Many of the individuals are very dedicated to the success of this community, and will take as much time as possible to get tasks done. From the janitor to the manager, the Sheikh or the principal, all teachers and volunteers, everyone gives forth their greatest efforts, determined to uphold their Islamic values of giving and building a strong team.
• Many individuals own local businesses, and help out in every event. While owners of Al-Salam Restaurant cater to our monthly community dinners, Al Bayan Grocery brings in coffee and snacks to the weekly gatherings. On the other hand, Elite Cars provides transportation to our guest speakers. In addition, some of the community’s engineers, carpenters, and builders have renovated the mosque’s interior and exterior facilities. Moreover, A&G Glass Works renew the windows and doors when necessary, while Al-Somali Capet’s owner provides complete washing services to the prayer carpets in the mosque’s prayer hall.
• The rising number of college students that contribute to the monthly newsletter, run the youth programs, and volunteer in the Sunday School is one of the most appreciated assets our community could ask for.

Community Assets

ICCI is located in the Northwest area of Chicago, off Belmont and Natchez.
A community asset is anything that can be used to improve the quality of community life. Some of the ICCI community assets include, but are not limited to:

• The CTA Bus 77 stops right across the street from ICCI, and allows for ease of transportation to and from the mosque.
• There are many grocery stores surrounding ICCI, such Al Bayan, Al Quds, and Al Madina groceries, and all help out with providing foods and other materials when necessary.
• The Youth Center is one of the great assets that enhance the experience of many individuals at ICCI. There are weekly activities and sports for kids of all ages. Additionally, it is available to use for parties and group functions.
• The local public library is in close proximity of ICCI, enriching the experience of the many individuals that make tremendous use of its resources.
• The Chicago Fire department and police station are also close by, and they provide valuable lessons when they come speak to students of the ICCI schools.
• The newly renovated computer lab serves multiple purposes, and two of ICCI’s own members give computer lessons weekly.
• Everyone in the community can be a force for community improvement and once we know what their assets are, we could put them to good use.