Organizations

The Midwest Federation of American Syrian Lebanese Clubs, Inc., is a non-political, social and fraternal organization which was organized to promote and preserve the ethnic heritage of its members, to advance the scholarship of its youth, and to support humanitarian causes.

It convenes yearly at different sites throughout the Midwest.  Such prominent Arab-Americans as Casey Kasem, Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Donna Shalala, and U.S. Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham have addressed its membership at annual conventions.

Its membership includes ethnic clubs or lodges throughout the Midwest as well as individual members.  The Federation publishes a newsletter, three times annually, mailed to approximately 2,000 families in the Midwest.

The organization has awarded hundreds of undergraduate scholarships over its 75 years of existence to affiliate youth.  It has supported orphans in Lebanon and humanitarian efforts by the U.S. government in Lebanon and Palestine.  It has aided the victims of the 9/11 disaster.  It has intervened to protect the rights of its ethnic community and has promoted its culture via cultural activities at its gatherings and through cultural activities planned by its member clubs in their respective cities.  These clubs have participated in ethnic fairs showcasing their food and heritage through cultural exhibits.  They have addressed groups regarding their heritage and taught their ethnic dancing and cooking.

Our heritage is rich with many contributions to the world like the alphabet, mathematics, astronomy, agriculture, calligraphy, and many musical instruments.  Some famous Americans of our heritage include Senators George Mitchell and Spencer Abraham, former White House Chief of Staff, John H. Sununu, former Secretary of Health and Human Services, Donna Shalala, former Dean of White House Press Corps, Helen Thomas, consumer advocate, Ralph Nader, and prominent heart surgeon, Dr. Michael DeBakey.

You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@MFASLC)!

ABOUT UNITED MUSLIM RELIEF
United Muslim Relief is a registered 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. It is one of the fastest growing NGO’s in the United States, with a focus on building humanitarian coalitions to tackle developmental needs.
At UMR we believe everyone has a right to live free of poverty in a secure and more equitable world where they are able to realize their potential.

Although inspired by our Islamic ethos, we are open-minded and pluralistic. We believe that all people, regardless of race or religion should have access to clean water, to healthcare, to earn a sustainable livelihood and to have access to basic social services.
Climate change alongside shortages in natural resources, famines, humanitarian crises, energy limitations and proliferation of conflicts mean that now more than ever, collaboration in the field of international development is needed. We therefore work with diverse partners to tackle some of these mounting challenges.

Alongside our strong belief in collaboration, at UMR we believe strongly in giving back to our volunteers and to the numerous communities that support us. Through investing in our student led chapters nationwide, we strive to develop tomorrow’s humanitarian leaders.
OUR VISION
To be a world leader in uniting partner organizations’ relief and development services to assist underserved communities in achieving the dignity of self-sustenance.
OUR PURPOSE
We believe that all people, regardless of race or religion should have access to clean water, to healthcare, to earn a sustainable livelihood and to have access to basic social services.
OUR APPROACH
We try to attain our purpose through delivering sustainable programs, educating the public, running campaigns, advocating for change and delivering humanitarian aid in disasters and conflicts.