Donate to Manarah Project
Manarah means “beacon” or “source of light”—and that’s what we aim to be. After volunteering in shelters and speaking with individuals experiencing homelessness, we discovered a recurring pattern: people weren’t always lacking resources, but they were often unaware of them.
That insight sparked the creation of Manarah Project. We realized that while housing, food, and job programs existed, they were underutilized simply because people didn’t know they were there. We're here to bridge that information gap and shine a light on the paths to stability.
At Manarah Project, we believe that change starts with knowledge—and youth have the power to light the way. We combine direct outreach with creative advocacy to bring visibility, dignity, and education to those facing homelessness in our community.
Here’s how we are and planning on making a difference:
Education in Action
We visit local shelters and food distribution centers to teach unhoused individuals about the resources available—from job training to healthcare and housing programs
Youth-Led School Outreach
We collaborate with schools and clubs to host interactive assemblies, classroom talks, and volunteer events, bringing in experts to talk about the real stories behind homelessness.
Community Drives & Booths
Our volunteers run clothing drives, hygiene kit packing days, and info booths at shelters, schools, and public events—meeting people where they are with real solutions.
Fundraisers With Impact
From 5K runs to fundraising dinners and bake sales, we raise money for homelessness organizations while engaging students and families through exciting, community-centered events.
Billboards, Yard Signs & Bus Stop Ads
We’re launching awareness campaigns across Washington Road and key intersections using billboards, bus stop posters, yard signs, and mailers to increase visibility of homelessness and promote compassion.
Interactive Digital Tools
Our team is working on a resource website and app featuring an interactive map, automated text alerts for food and shelter updates, and social media campaigns to keep the community informed.
Faith & Cultural Community Dinners
We’re planning community dinners at churches, mosques, and temples to bring diverse groups together to learn, reflect, and take action against homelessness.
Asad Akhtar President
Eliana Benevides Vice-President
Alexander Balance Treasurer
Johnathan Bickel Director of Marketing & Awareness
Saisurya Lakkimsetti Secretary
Alya Akhtar Director of Financial Administration
Amir Akhtar Advisory Director
The Salvation Army
Bloom Foster
Lakeside SNHS
Lakeside MAO
Lakeside Rho Kappa
Islamic Society of Augusta
Lakeside HOSA