About us

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ABOUT US

United in Compassion, Changing Lives Through Faith​

Founded in 1998 in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, home to many Somali American families. ICSA serves as a civic and spiritual hub for Muslims in Minneapolis. We believe Islamic and democratic values go hand-in-hand to promote justice and service.

In 2006, with support from the community, ICSA raised over $400,000 in five months to purchase and remodel the Cedar Avenue building. Despite a devastating fire in 2014 that forced temporary relocation, the mosque reopened in 2015, reaffirming its central role in the community. Today, the space serves not only as a place of worship but also as a center for civic leadership, interfaith dialogue, and youth education.

OUR APPROACH

Compassionate solutions for lasting impact

Our approach focuses on creating sustainable change by addressing root causes, empowering communities, and delivering compassionate solutions.

Our Mission

To develop the spiritual, civic, and social capacity of Muslim communities while advancing interfaith cooperation and equity.

Our Vision

To nurture a just society where Islamic and democratic values coexist to serve the common good.

Our Value

We value faith, service, equity, transparency, and civic unity to empower the next generation.

OUR TEAM

Dedicated hearts behind our mission

Meet the passionate individuals driving our mission forward, committed to creating meaningful change and building a brighter future for all.

Wali Dirie

Executive Director

Sharif Mohamed

Imam

Dr. Abdisalam Adam

Board Chair

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Community Outreach Specialist

WHY CHOOSE ICSA

Rooted in Faith, Committed to Impact

Our unwavering integrity, inclusive programs, and values-driven service make ICSA a trusted source of hope. Join a mission that transforms lives every day.

Years of experience
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Volunteers Across Minnesota
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Families Served.
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HOW WE HELP

Bringing Hope, Advancing Justice

We create change through faith and action. Every initiative is designed to build a just, healthy, and informed community:

At ICSA, we serve with purpose. Every program we lead is designed to uplift our neighbors, deepen our faith, and build bridges across communities. Guided by Islamic values and civic responsibility, we support families through practical action and spiritual care.

Healthcare Access

We connect families with physical and mental health resources, workshops, and community wellness programs rooted in dignity and trust.

Family Support

We support families through faith-based counseling, parenting guidance, and crisis care rooted in compassion and Islamic values.

Educational Support

We support inclusive education through after-school programs, dugsi (Islamic school), mentoring, and youth literacy initiatives.

Awareness Campaigns

From civic literacy to public safety, we engage communities in educational efforts that inform and empower.

OUR FEATURE

Highlights of our impactful work

Discover the positive change we’ve created through our programs, partnerships, and dedicated efforts. From healthcare and education to mental health and counseling access.

 
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🩺 Healthcare + 📚 Education Support

Our integrated approach has supported over 10,000+ individuals through health screenings, Qur’an and Arabic instruction, and academic enrichment programs. These services equip youth and families with both physical well-being and Islamic educational foundations, fostering holistic community growth.

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🧠 Mental Health & Counseling Access

Our culturally sensitive mental health initiatives have served countless families, offering trauma support, youth group therapy, and marital counseling through an Islamic lens.

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🧕 Women in Leadership Impact

200+ women have completed our leadership and civic engagement training, going on to lead community events, facilitate classes, and represent ICSA in interfaith forums.

SOME FACT

Hope. Justice. Action.

Our journey is measured not only in years but in lives touched, meals served, and futures shaped. These numbers reflect our shared commitment to justice, mercy, and community well-being.

years of local impact.
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gatherings for peace & awareness.
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FAQ

Answers to your important questions

ICSA stands for the Islamic Civic Society of America. We are a faith-rooted, community-driven organization based in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis. Our mission is to strengthen the spiritual, civic, and social capacity of Muslim communities while promoting equity and interfaith understanding.

Yes. Dar Al-Hijrah is the founding mosque of ICSA and remains central to our spiritual, educational, and civic work. It is the first Somali-led mosque in Minnesota and continues to serve as a vibrant center for worship and leadership.

Absolutely. ICSA is a Zakat-eligible nonprofit. Your contributions go directly toward supporting underserved families, youth education, healthcare access, food distribution, and more. Every dollar is used with accountability and transparency.

ICSA is deeply engaged in civic education, voter awareness, and advocacy for equitable public policy. We collaborate with interfaith partners and local leaders to build a more just and compassionate society.

Yes. We run weekend dugsi (Islamic school), after-school mentoring, community gatherings, and leadership development workshops tailored for youth and families.

Yes. While we are grounded in Islamic values, we welcome people of all backgrounds. We believe in building bridges through mutual respect and shared service.

You can donate, volunteer, attend events, or help us amplify our work online. Every action, big or small, helps us grow stronger together.

Yes. The Islamic Civic Society of America (ICSA) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This means your donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Always consult your tax advisor for specific guidance.