Inspired Generosity: Muslim American Stories in Philanthropy launched on September 17 at the Auburn Avenue Research Library, featuring videos, photos, poetry, digital art, and audio stories on acts of kindness within the community.

This three-year, traveling showcase aims to highlight the importance of generosity in Muslim American life, while promoting connections between institutional philanthropy and Muslim-led nonprofits.

The exhibition will remain at the library for six weeks before starting a national tour, Saporta Report reported.

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Organized by the WF Fund and supporting partners, the storytelling initiative seeks to reshape narratives about Muslim Americans.

Nearly 200 stories of daily giving were submitted from across the country, with more than 50 selected by a national panel for the Atlanta showcase. About a quarter of the stories come from local residents.

Featured Atlanta stories include Sisters Nurturing Sisters, a group led by Shahidah Shariff that supports community service efforts; the Clara Mohammed Schools, founded by Imam Warithudeen Mohammed, which emphasize educational excellence and civic engagement; and The Black Iftar, which began in 2018 to build community through fasting during Ramadan.

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Inspired Generosity

The Inspired Generosity project is part of Dilnaz Waraich’s fellowship with the National Center for Family Philanthropy (NCFP). Her fellowship culminated at the NCFP Forum in September, held at the Loews Hotel and sponsored by the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta.

The exhibit is grounded in the quote by Georgia’s Patti Digh: “The shortest distance between two people is a story.” The initiative acknowledges the challenge of inviting marginalized communities to share their experiences, especially when they have been told that their stories don’t matter or aren’t American enough.

“The Community Foundation recognizes the power of the Inspired Generosity showcase in bridging communities and fostering dialogue,” said Cynthia Padilla Pearson, program officer at the Foundation, who supports interfaith work through the TogetherATL Fund.

“By bringing diverse leaders together and sharing authentic stories, this initiative not only challenges harmful stereotypes but also encourages real reflection and connection. It’s an invaluable platform for creating lasting change.”

Building the host committee and organizing the exhibition have played a crucial role in establishing relationships between philanthropy and local leaders.

Through storytelling, the initiative aims to counter negative perceptions of Islam and Muslims in the U.S.

The exhibit runs through October 26 at Auburn Avenue Research Library, offering visitors a chance to explore the stories and reflect on their impact.