ILIA 2026 News Feed

Khyri Sims, a Youth Coach of the I Can Lead Program talks about community service, especially in spaces that are often overlooked or under resourced.
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ILIA launched “Leading Oneself to Second Chances”, a statewide initiative bringing leadership development to incarcerated youth. By adapting its Positive Youth Development Framework (IPYD) into the Juvenile Active Learning Framework (JAL), ILIA created a model tailored to juvenile environments, empowering young people to reflect, learn, and grow despite challenging circumstances. Read more!

ILIA youth secured the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation Youth Grant, empowering them to expand monthly food drives and strengthen youth‑led hunger relief efforts in Baltimore. The grant supports logistics, volunteer training, and outreach, ensuring families receive consistent access to nutritious food. This milestone reflects ILIA’s commitment to building a generation of leaders dedicated to service, compassion, and community responsibility. Read more!

ILIA participated in multiple Career Open Houses across Baltimore in March 2026, connecting directly with job seekers and community members. These events provided opportunities to share ILIA’s workforce readiness programs, resulting in over 40 enrollments. By engaging diverse audiences, ILIA strengthened pathways to employment and expanded awareness of its youth empowerment initiatives. Read more!

The Islamic Leadership Institute of America (ILIA) collaborates with Makkah Learning Center, a technical partner, providing resources such as Muslim Connector Issue #3 and educational materials to encourage thoughtful dialogue about Ramadan, the Qur’an, and the foundations of faith. Read more!

ILIA expanded its service map to include Green Ridge and the Lower Eastern Shore, strengthening outreach and support for youth and families in these regions. By extending program access, ILIA ensures that more communities benefit from coaching, empowerment initiatives, and leadership development. This expansion reflects ILIA’s commitment to building inclusive networks of service across Maryland and beyond. Read more!

ILIA launched a Ramadan Guide tailored for juvenile residents, offering spiritual context, practical tips, and resources to help youth observe the blessed month meaningfully. The guide emphasizes reflection, worship, and community connection, ensuring that young participants can engage with Ramadan traditions in supportive environments. This initiative reflects ILIA’s commitment to empowering youth through faith, guidance, and leadership. Read more!

A sudden water heater malfunction caused flooding at ILIA’s Baltimore office, disrupting operations and damaging facilities. Staff and volunteers responded quickly to contain the impact and begin recovery efforts. The incident highlighted the importance of resilience and community support, as ILIA worked to restore its space and continue serving youth and families without interruption. Read more!

ILIA youth volunteers organized and delivered the Ramadan Food Drive, distributing essential supplies to families in need across Maryland. The initiative embodied the spirit of generosity and service during the blessed month, while empowering young leaders to take active roles in community support. Through teamwork and compassion, the food drive strengthened bonds of faith and solidarity. Read more!

Islamic Leadership Institute of America (ILIA) proudly announces the launch of @islamicleader.swva, dedicated to highlighting local projects, youth achievements, and community events across Southwest Virginia. This new platform strengthens connections with families, youth, and partners while expanding ILIA’s presence in the region. Read more!