The Mecca Center

Ramadan Children's Program
2024-03-10 20:00 - 2024-04-10 22:00 (America/Chicago) | IL
Embark on an enchanting journey of discovery and joy with our specially crafted Children’s Ramadan Program!
🌟 What is the Children’s Ramadan Program?
It is a magical experience designed just for little ones during the blessed month of Ramadan. We’ve woven together a tapestry of fun, learning, and excitement to make this Ramadan extra special for your children.

Community Unity Iftar
2024-03-11 18:00 - 20:30 | IL
Please join us with family and friends to kick off Ramadan with a community iftar! We’ll welcome Ramadan inshaAllah in a beautiful way by opening with a dars from our beloved Outreach Director, Shaykh Tariq Musleh, and honorable guest and scholar, Shaykh Yousef Wahb, followed by du’a led by our respected Qari Sinan Hafez.

Admission is $10 per person, and no childcare will be provided

The Mecca Center and CIOGC Muslim-Methodist Interfaith Iftar
2024-03-20 17:30 - 20:00 | IL
Bringing together hearts and traditions: Celebrating Ramadan with our Methodist friends at an inspiring interfaith dinner.

Last 10 Nights of Ramadan
2024-03-25 20:00 - 22:00 | IL
Embark on a journey of enlightenment this Ramadan! Join us for captivating conversations during the final 10 nights as we delve into the profound teachings of Luqman the Wise, alongside Shaykh Tariq and a different esteemed guest every night. Let’s deepen our understanding and embrace the wisdom together.

Eid Toy Drive
2024-03-30 08:00 - 2024-04-01 17:00 | IL
Join The Mecca Center and ICNA Relief for Eid Toy Drive!
Celebrate the spirit of giving this Eid by joining hands with The Mecca Center and ICNA Relief for our annual Eid Toy Drive! From March 30th to April 1st, we invite you to be a part of this wonderful initiative, spreading joy and happiness to children in need.
How You Can Help:
We’re accepting donations of new toys suitable for children aged 1 to 11. Whether it’s a cuddly teddy bear, a fun board game, or a colorful puzzle, every contribution counts in making a child’s Eid brighter.
For older kids aged 12 and above, we welcome gift cards. These allow older children to choose gifts that suit their interests and preferences, ensuring they have a memorable Eid experience too.
Why Your Contribution Matters:
Your generosity can make a world of difference in the lives of children who may otherwise miss out on the joy of Eid celebrations. Many of these children come from low-income or refugee backgrounds, facing various challenges in their lives. By coming together as a community, we can ensure that every child receives a gift that brings a smile to their face on this special occasion.
How to Donate:
Bringing a little happiness into a child’s life is as easy as dropping off your donations at The Mecca Center between March 30th and April 1st. Your support will go a long way in making this Eid memorable for children in our community.
Let’s make this Eid a truly joyous occasion for all children. Join us in spreading the spirit of generosity and compassion this season. Together, we can make a difference, one toy at a time.
Thank you for your kindness and support!

Community Health Awareness Program
2024-03-30 10:00 - 12:00 | IL
Join The Mecca Center alongside with our partners- Chicago Muslim Medical Alliance, Middle Eastern Pharmacist Association, and Midwestern University every other month for an enlightening discussion on health, diet, and lifestyle.

At our community health awareness program, we aim to empower you with knowledge that can transform lives. Together, we’ll delve into topics ranging from nutrition to mental well-being, ensuring you have the tools to make informed decisions about your health.
As a participant, you’ll also have the opportunity to receive a complimentary health vision and dental screening, provided by our dedicated healthcare professionals. It’s our commitment to ensuring everyone has access to essential health services.
Join us in our mission to promote a healthier community. Together, we can make strides towards a brighter, healthier future. Take the first step towards a healthier you!

Last 10 Nights of Ramadan- Qiyam Program
2024-03-31 03:00 - 2024-04-08 04:30 | IL
Join the Mecca Center for the last 10 nights of Ramadan Qiyam program. Every night from 3:00 AM to 4:30 AM, we will gather for prayer, dua (supplication), and reminders. Light suhoor will be served, and individuals are welcome to bring their own. Let’s make the most of these blessed nights together in worship and reflection.

The Heart's Joy in Remembering Laylat al-Qadr- Book Launch
2024-03-31 16:30 - 17:30 | IL
Join us for ‘The Heart’s Joy in Remembering Laylat al-Qadr’ Book Launch 📚✨ Delve into Shaykh Yousef’s inspiring journey of editing and authoring this manuscript. Explore the depths of Laylat al-Qadr and its profound significance. Save the date: Sunday, March 31st at 4:30 PM. Don’t miss this enlightening event! #LaylatAlQadr #BookLaunch #Inspiration”

ConverTsations- Ramadan Reflections and Potluck Iftar
2024-03-31 17:30 - 21:00 | IL
Join us for an enriching experience as we come together in the spirit of Ramadan for an evening of profound reflections and heartfelt connections. ConverTsations invites you to a unique event that combines the essence of Ramadan with the warmth of communal gathering through our Potluck Iftar.
What to Expect:
Reflective Conversations: Immerse yourself in insightful discussions guided by the themes of Ramadan. Share your thoughts, reflections, and personal experiences as we explore the spiritual significance of this sacred month.
Community Potluck Iftar: Indulge in a diverse array of mouthwatering dishes lovingly prepared by members of our community. From traditional favorites to modern interpretations, our Potluck Iftar promises to tantalize your taste buds and create lasting culinary memories.
Bonding and Camaraderie: Forge new friendships and strengthen existing bonds as we break bread together in a spirit of unity and solidarity. Celebrate the diversity of our community as we come together to share stories, laughter, and joyous moments.
Meaningful Connections: Experience the true essence of Ramadan as we engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Extend a hand of friendship to those around you and embrace the spirit of giving that defines this blessed month.

Community Iftar Series
2024-04-08 18:00 - 20:00 | IL
Join us every Monday during the blessed month of Ramadan for an enriching experience with our esteemed special guests: Shaykh Tariq Musleh, Shaykh Noman Hussain, and Qari Sinan Hafez. Prepare to delve deep into the lives and teachings of the noble companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
✨ Journey Through History: Embark on a spiritual journey as we explore the lives and legacies of Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq, Omar Ibn Al-Khattab, Uthman Ibn Affan, and Ali bin Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with them). Gain profound insights and lessons from their exemplary lives, filled with unwavering faith, wisdom, and sacrifice.
📜 What to Expect:

Inspirational talks on the virtues and teachings of the companions.
Reflections on their unparalleled contributions to Islam.
Engaging discussions on applying their wisdom to our daily lives.
Heart-touching dua led by Qari Sinan Hafez.
Community Iftar with our brothers and sisters.

🌟 Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your connection with Allah (SWT) and gain valuable insights from the lives of these remarkable companions. Join us for an unforgettable Ramadan experience!

Ceasefire Tour - Sammy Obeid: ZF and Mecca Center Gaza Relief
2024-04-15 19:00 - 21:30 | IL
In light of recent information regarding older content from the main act of the comedy show, the Mecca Center has made a decision to withdraw its sponsorship of the event.
The Comedy Show is still taking place, but under new sponsorship; and individuals who have already purchased their tickets on the Mecca Center website are still valid. CLICK HERE for the new registration page.

Fitness Room Open House
2024-04-21 16:30 - 18:00 | IL
Join us this Sunday, April 21st for our Fitness Room Open House! Check out our state-of-the-art equipment, our hours, and register ON THE SPOT for the first day of opening on Monday, April 22nd!

Mecca MVMT: Sprouts - Earth Week
2024-04-24 18:30 - 20:00 | IL
SPROUTS🌱
New Mecca MVMT monthly program for boys & girls ages 7-9!
Wednesday, April 24th
6:30-8:00 PM
Meet in Back Parking Lot of the Mecca Center
Must Register: Max 50 boys & 50 girls
Join us as we connect with nature, decorate our own pots, and plant seedlings for all to take home 🪴 Shaykh Mohammad will discuss the importance of being Caretakers of the Earth 🌎 and we will enjoy snacks and juice 🧃 together as a group! Please pick-up promptly at 8:00 PM ⏱️

Women's Tatreez Workshop
2024-04-26 18:00 - 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Please join us for a night of tatreez and tea! The Mecca Center is proud to host Badan Collective for a tatreez workshop, showcasing the traditional art of Palestinian embroidery.
ABOUT THE CLASS:
This is a beginner’s workshop ideal for those with little to no tatreez experience. There is a 30 minute teaching portion in the beginning where brief Palestinian history is covered, followed by a demo on the mechanics of cross-stitching. The rest of the workshop is hands-on. Students will take home their finished piece.
CLASS DETAILS:
Friday, April 26th, 6-9 pm
The Mecca Center Multi-purpose Room
Women and Girls (16 and up) $30/person
Info: athar@meccacenter.org
Includes a Tatreez Kit (stitching patterns, needle, thread, Aida cloth fabric). No need to bring anything additional to class! Light refreshments served
ABOUT BADAN:
Badan is a creative design house and educational space that equips Palestinians of the diaspora with the access, tools, and knowledge necessary to practice the tradition of tatreez. With every stitch, we mobilize a collective movement, for ourselves and future generations.

One Ummah, One Voice
2024-04-27 19:00 - 22:00 | IL
Join us for a night of empowerment and unity at the Women’s Open Mic event hosted by The Well Circle, Ilham Collective, & The Mecca Center! Let’s raise our voices together and celebrate the power of sisterhood. See you on April 27th, 7-10 PM at The Mecca Center!
Women 18+ performers & spectators welcome!
Details & tickets: thewellcircle.org

From Seed to Table
2024-04-28 15:00 - 16:30 | IL
Discover the delights of gardening together with The Mecca Center at our very first Community Garden Workshop! Bring the whole family for a fun-filled session where we’ll show you how to plant seeds in pots, ideal for nurturing vibrant plants all through the sunny season. All ages are invited to join in on the green-thumb excitement!

3rd Annual Converts’ Conference
2024-05-03 18:30 - 2024-05-05 18:30 | IL
The Mecca Center’s 3rd Annual Converts’ Conference
hosted by the Convert Engagement Committee at the Mecca Center
Steadfast Believers: Facing Adversity with Faith
May 3-5, 2023
Together, we will examine a variety of scholarly and community perspectives on the history of maintaining
unwavering faith in the face of adversity and explore strategies all Muslims can employ today to stay on the
right path.
Friday, May 3 (Prayer Hall):
❖ 6:30-8pm: Community Night with Dr. Ahmed Arafat: Prophetic Examples of Resilience
➢ Lecture and Q&A
Saturday, May 4 (Banquet Hall)
❖ 1:30-2:00 pm: Opening: Registration, Welcome, and Community Engagement Activity
UNDERSTANDING OUR CHALLENGES
❖ 2:00-3:45pm
➢ Mike Swies: Current Challenges of the Convert Community in the Chicago Area and Beyond.
➢ Dr. Will Caldwell: Understanding our Challenges through the experience of the Companions.
➢ Q&A
➢ Practical Workshop: Active Reflection
MEETING THE CHALLENGES
❖ 4:00-5:45pm:
➢ Donna Neil-Demir: Responding to Islamophobia: Prophetic Strategies
➢ Hazel Gomez: Hardship as a Source of Strength
➢ Q&A
➢ Practical Workshop: Role-modeling Tactics, Table Discussions.
❖ 6pm: Asr Prayer
IDENTIFYING STRATEGIES
❖ 6:15-7:50pm:
➢ Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans: Resilience Building Strategies
➢ Panel discussion with the conference speakers (30min)
➢ Conference closing
❖ 7:59pm: Maghrib Prayer
❖ 8:15-9:30pm: Dinner
❖ 9:30pm: Isha Prayer
Sunday, May 5 (Banquet Hall)
6-7:30pm: ConverTsations: Conference Takeaways

Wellness Walks
2024-05-04 08:00 - 2024-05-25 17:00 | IL
🌿 Ready to step into wellness this May? Join us every Saturday for our Wellness Walks! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just getting started, everyone’s welcome! Let’s stroll together to nourish our minds, bodies, and souls. See you there!
Registration is required- please fill out the google form linked here
Join our whatsapp group for regular updates: HERE

Bouquets and Boba- A heartwarming celebration of motherhood
2024-05-09 16:00 - 18:00 | IL
Mecca Connect invites you to join us for a heartwarming celebration of motherhood with our event “Bouquets and Boba.” Set against the backdrop of love and appreciation, we’ll gather together to craft beautiful flower bouquets and indulge in the delightful flavors of boba.
Mothers play an irreplaceable role in our lives, brightening our world with their unconditional love and nurturing spirit. This event is our way of honoring and expressing gratitude to these incredible women who enrich our lives every day.
Partnering with Boba Heaven and Dessert Cart Rentals, we’ve curated an experience that combines creativity with culinary delight. Get ready to immerse yourself in the art of flower arrangement as you craft a stunning bouquet, while also treating your taste buds to the refreshing sweetness of boba drinks.
Tickets for this special occasion are available for $15, which includes one bouquet and one boba drink per registration. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance!
Join us as we come together to celebrate the mothers who deserve all the love and appreciation in the world. Let’s make this a memorable occasion filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments.

Gardening and The Growth Mindset
2024-05-11 17:00 | IL
Join us on Saturday, May 11th, at 5:00 PM for an enriching session with Dr. Mousab Almusaddy and Sister Sabuhi Athar as we delve into the world of gardening and the growth mindset.
Gardening isn’t just about planting seeds and watching them grow; it’s a journey of nurturing, patience, and continuous learning. In this interactive event, we’ll roll up our sleeves and explore the symbiotic relationship between tending to a garden and fostering personal growth.
Dr. Mousab Almusaddy and Sister Sabuhi Athar will share their expertise and insights on gardening techniques, offering practical tips and tricks to help you cultivate a thriving garden. But beyond the soil and seeds, we’ll also delve into the profound lessons gardens can impart on our mental and emotional well-being.
Discover how cultivating a garden can parallel the principles of the growth mindset, teaching us resilience, adaptability, and the power of persistence in the face of challenges. Through engaging discussions and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the transformative potential of embracing a growth-oriented perspective in all aspects of life.
This event isn’t just for seasoned gardeners; it’s for anyone curious about the parallels between nurturing plants and nurturing personal development. Bring the whole family along for an afternoon of learning, inspiration, and connection.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to sow the seeds of growth, both in your garden and in your life. Reserve your spot now and embark on a journey of discovery with us!

Parent and Child Paint Night
2024-05-13 17:00 - 19:30 | IL
🎨 Strengthen bonds and foster creativity! Join Sister Amen Sardar and AbdulAziz Syed, LCSW, School Counselor at MCC Academy, for a memorable Parent & Child Paint Night experience. This event offers more than just painting; it’s a chance to learn valuable communication techniques for your home while engaging in a fun-filled activity with your child. Don’t miss this opportunity for connection, creativity, and growth! You and your child or children will work on separate individual pieces that will come together to create one overall piece of art.

IMPORTANT NOTES: To attend, children must be at least 5 years of age and at most 18 and WITH AN ADULT, and one ticket is required PER PERSON (e.g. separate ticket for parent and child(ren)).

Sister's Fitness Room Orientation
2024-05-15 09:00 - 10:00 | IL
Learn how best to use equipment in our new fitness room, get introduced to the group training classes we’ll be offering, and discuss the role of nutrition with NASM-Certified Personal Trainer Abby Mohammed.

Tatreez and a Talk on Trauma
2024-05-15 18:00 - 21:00 | IL
Join Sister Bayan Fares LSW, Sister Sujod Bdaiwi, and the Badan Collective in partnership with Khalil Center for an evening of healing, resilience, and community connection.
In this unique workshop-style event, we’ll gather together to explore the art of tatreez, traditional Palestinian embroidery, as a powerful tool for stitching resilience and coping with trauma. Against the backdrop of ongoing challenges, particularly the heartbreaking situation in Gaza, we’ll delve into effective coping methods and strategies for healing secondary trauma.
Whether you’re an experienced stitcher or new to the art, all are welcome. Bring your current tatreez project and stitch alongside us, or if you’re just beginning, supplies and instruction will be provided. Just come as you are, ready to engage in meaningful conversation, creativity, and solidarity.
This event is more than just a workshop; it’s a space for community, support, and collective healing. Together, we’ll share stories, insights, and techniques for navigating difficult times with resilience and strength.

Global Clothing Drive
2024-05-18 11:00 - 16:00 | IL
📢 Calling all volunteers! 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️ We need your helping hands on Saturday, May 18, from 11 AM to 4 PM! Join us in making a difference in our community. Contact Amna Saeed at (630) 440-0794, Mushtaq Saleemi at (773) 226-3368, or Mobasshir Khan at (331) 315-7937 to sign up!
💲 We’re also accepting donations of brand new or like-new items to support those in need. Check out the list of accepted items and let’s spread some kindness together! Donations can be made online at hhrd.org/In-kind.
❗ Please note our packing instructions to ensure your donations are acceptable. Let’s make a positive impact together!

2nd Annual Mecca Golf Outing
2024-05-19 07:00 - 15:00 | Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort, 3500 Midwest Rd, Oak Brook, 60523, United States
PREPAY MULLIGANS-
$20 Each team can take ONE mulligan per hole on any ONE stroke during the hole (i.e., the drive, the approach, or a putt) for $20. DAY OFF OUTING PRICE IS $30 The team must keep track of their mulligans (MAX 18/Team!). PREPAY UP TO THE DAY OF THE OUTING FOR A DISCOUNT!
PREPAY 300 YARD DRIVE:-
$40 Your team can pay $40 for a 300 yard drive. DAY OF OUTING YOU PAY $60 OR PREPAY UP TO THE DAY OF THE OUTING FOR A DISCOUNT!
Outing/Sponsorship Questions: golf@meccacenter.org

A Journey into the Heart of the Quran
2024-05-19 20:00 - 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
By engaging in a deep, contemplative examination of specific passages from the Quran, students can uncover profound truths that have the potential to profoundly alter their spiritual journey.

Weight Management Options: Building a Better You
2024-05-21 18:30 - 19:30 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
On the journey to building a better you? Get expert insights from Dr. Omar Shamsi and Sister Dania Amaira on managing your weight through nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes. Plus, check out our brand-new fitness facility! All happening on Tuesday, May 21st at 6:30pm.
Dr. Omar Shamsi is a physician specializing in bariatric and obesity medicine currently affiliated with Edward-Elmhurst Health. He completed his internship and Residency at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital (Pontiac, Michigan) and fellowship in Bariatric Medicine and Nutrition at Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, Pennsylvania). Currently he holds leadership roles as Medical Director for Bariatric/Weight Management Centers at Edward/Elmhurst Hospitals and is the President of the Illinois Obesity Society. His focus is on providing comprehensive care, including motivation, medical preparation, and mental and physical well-being for patients on their weight loss journey. He lives with his wife Dr Rukhsana Iqbal and three kids and has been a part of the Mecca Center community for the past thirty years

Dania Amaira is a registered dietitian who brings 10 years of experience to the table. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition Sciences from Cal Poly Pomona, she specializes in end-stage renal disease and has worked at Davita for 9 years. Her passion lies in promoting fitness, health, and nutrition to help people lead healthy lifestyles. Dania is committed to empower individuals with evidence-based strategies for balanced meals, debunking nutrition myths, and providing practical tips for meal planning and preparation.

Sprouts: 99 Names of Allah
2024-05-22 18:30 - 20:00 | IL
SPROUTS🌱
New Mecca MVMT monthly program for boys & girls ages 7-9!
Wednesday, May 22nd
6:30-8:00 PM
Must Register: Max 60 boys & 60 girls
Join us as we embark on a scavenger hunt, enjoy some nasheed, and learn about the 99 names of Allah 🪴 Shaykh Mohammad will discuss the importance of knowing and understanding our Lord, and we will enjoy snacks and refreshments together as a group! Please pick-up promptly at 8:00 PM ⏱️

Community Health Awareness Program
2024-05-25 11:30 - 13:30 | IL
Join us every other month for a discussion on health, diet, lifestyle, and get a free health and vision screening!
Open to all men and women 18 years and older.

Mecca Center Mosque on 16W560 91st St,
Willowbrook, IL 60527 (lounge in basement)
Free screenings will be offered for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and A1c!
Bring any medications you have and ask questions!
There will be on-site Physician and Pharmacist

Join Us for Spring Community Planting Day!
2024-05-26 15:30 - 18:00 | IL
Date: Sunday, May 26th
Time: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Mecca Center’s Back Parking Lot
Celebrate the season of growth by participating in our Spring Community Planting Day! This is a wonderful opportunity for all community members to come together, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to our communal garden. We will be planting a variety of fruits and vegetables, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Who Can Join?
Everyone in the community is welcome, including families. We encourage parents to supervise their young children to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
What to Bring?
To make our planting day a success, please bring any gardening tools, gloves, and other supplies you have at home. Your contributions will help us make this event productive and fun!
Need More Information?
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Athar at Athar@meccacenter.org.
Let’s plant the seeds of community spirit and watch them grow! We look forward to seeing you there.
