Who We Are

About us

Welcome To Our Sisterhood!

At YM, we cherish sisterhood, creating a secure space for all sisters to openly share thoughts, feelings, and experiences, guided by the core Islamic value of unity.

We recognize the importance of mutual support, inspired by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who said,

“A believer is a mirror to another believer,” (narrated by Abu Hurayrah),

Years ago, dedicated Islamic workers identified a gap in North American Islamic work, specifically noting the disconnect experienced by a significant Muslim demographic — the youth. The future torchbearers of Islam were not feeling its presence in their hearts. In response to this realization, Young Muslims (YM) was established as the youth division of the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA). YM emerged with a specific goal: to address and rectify this issue. Our purpose is to please Allah ﷻ by educating and developing the youth, instilling in them the desire to lead lives dedicated to Allah and positively influence those around them.

Central to YM is the NeighborNet—a term we use for a network of neighbors. This gathering, resembling a halaqah, provides a platform for sisters to discuss challenges, find solutions through Islam, and enjoy a supportive Muslim environment. Each NeighborNet functions as a dynamic youth group, fostering a deep understanding of Islamic principles among its members and encouraging practical application. By creating an Islamic atmosphere where bonds of sisterhood flourish, YM helps its members grow comfortable with Islam and its teachings.

Together, YM members actively contribute to their communities, whether through supporting the local masjid, assisting shelters, or participating in fundraising efforts for other countries. In YM, we strike a balance between knowledge, activism, and enjoyment.

Our Mission

Young Muslims seek the pleasure of Allah (SWT) by empowering Muslim youth through companionship, mentorship, education, and service.

Our Vision

The American Muslim youth collectively contributing to the betterment of society with God-consciousness and a firm understanding of their Muslim identity.

Our History

In the early 90s, as Muslim youth groups emerged across the country in northern New Jersey, New York City, and Chicago, a collective effort sought to establish a national network. From these various youth groups, Young Muslims emerged, with its first charter and national coordinator established in 1995.

Over the past two decades, we have experienced significant growth, expanding to encompass seven official regions across five states. Through numerous national efforts and collaborations, we have cultivated prolific Islamic workers and brought thousands closer to Islam. Young Muslims remain committed to challenging itself for continual growth, both in numbers and in the quality of our organizational impact.

What makes gainlove different?

We’re a top-rated humanitarian organization focused on ending generational poverty through a proven approach. Over the past 80 years, we’ve developed a high-impact methodology that empowers children and youth to break free from poverty. With your support, children receive access to health care, educational resources and life-changing programs in safe, clean spaces.

Safe havens for support

Children in poverty are more likely to be exposed to the stress of violence, gangs and drugs. This can negatively affect brain development and long-term well-being. Your support during this vulnerable time helps children and youth set their own goals to build a life free from poverty.

Good that grows

When you sponsor a child, you create a powerful multiplier effect. You help them see beyond the daily struggles of life in poverty. Your support releases them from a cycle of short-term decisions and helps them gain the ability to begin contributing to their own families and communities.

Customized programs

Sponsorship encompasses key programs specifically designed to address a child’s toughest issues in their fight against poverty. Getting and staying healthy, staying in school, finding a stable job. You can help a child overcome challenges they’d otherwise face for a lifetime.

Our Goals

Figure out what Gainlove are most deserving of your dollars, what proactive missions are.

Sustainability

Ensuring our long-term impact on local and national scale.

Tarbiyyah

Creating a generation of visionary Muslim women.

Diversity

Fostering a diverse environment inclusive of people of all backgrounds.

Societal Impact

Utilizing our wide reach to conduct research on the needs of the Muslim youth.

Our Impact

Young Muslims has been run by the youth, for the youth for over 25 years. From the early days of Islam, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم showed us that the youth are a generation to believe in, that they have so much potential to advance our ummah when given responsibility. The empowerment of Muslim youth across the country is where our true impact lies:

“Every single YM member has always welcomed me with open arms and a smile, is always there for me when I need it, and makes me want to do good for the rest of the community. The admiration that I have for others has made me want to be a leader that the younger generation can look up to.”

YM Member from Alexandria, VA

“I've developed a greater sense of belonging that I didn't realize I had been missing out on before. I now have sisters that I know I can rely on if I ever need help.”

YM Member from Lexington, KY Design

“I realize that school can help me achieve my goals and improve my life.”

Samuel Phelp, Program Alumna, Tanzania

Volunteer Positions Available

4.89M

Staff and volunteers across 16 countries

68K

Of our staff in these countries are local

82%

Invested in all our programs last year 2019

136M