The future MAS East Bay community center in Richmond, California

An invitation to Bay Area community leaders

One evening. One decision. A permanent home for the East Bay.

On September 19, MAS East Bay hosts a fundraiser banquet to complete a $2.2 million campaign — purchasing and transforming a church into the masjid and community center this region has never had.

Saturday, September 19 5:00 PM — evening program & dinner RSVP required for all 1 Lawson Rd, Kensington, CA 94707

The Opportunity

More than halfway there — your leadership closes the gap.

There is no masjid within a 20-minute radius of this corridor and no community center within a 40-minute radius. The sellers of 1963 Carlson Blvd chose MAS East Bay over higher-profile bidders because they believe in what this building can become: a beacon of light serving families, youth, and neighbors of every background.

We have secured $1,321,207.58 of this $2.2 million project, including a $1 million halal loan from a major donor. We need $278,792.42 to close on the building and $600,000 for renovations and staff.

Secured so far

$1,321,207.58

Total project

$2,200,000

60% secured — the remaining gifts decide how quickly the doors open.

A building that faces the Qibla
The property is already oriented toward prayer — a rare sign this space was meant to become a masjid.
Right off the highway
Dedicated parking and immediate freeway access at 1963 Carlson Blvd, bridging Berkeley and Richmond.
Room to grow
A large backyard, picnic area, and green space ready to become a community garden and family gathering place.

What This Home Makes Possible

A place where the whole community can flourish.

Children can grow and learn

A safe, faith-centered environment for learning, play, mentorship, and character building.

Women participate fully

A welcoming home where women help shape programs, leadership, learning, and community life.

Community & civic engagement

Food drives, neighborhood cleanups, and service projects with tangible local impact.

Community events & connection

Holiday gatherings, interfaith dinners, game nights, coffee circles, and cultural celebrations.

Practical workshops

Useful sessions on wellness, finance, parenting, marriage, and stronger family bonds.

Youth programs

After-school support, sports, leadership training, and activities that build character.

Formal Islamic education

Structured Islamic studies and personal development courses for children and adults.

A place to belong

Social gatherings and volunteer opportunities that turn neighbors into lifelong friends.

Evening Program

Keynote speakers for the evening.

Portrait of Dr. Hatem Bazian

Dr. Hatem Bazian

Palestinian-American Academic & Activist

A longtime UC Berkeley professor and co-founder of Zaytuna College, Dr. Bazian is one of the most prominent voices for Palestinian rights and Muslim-American civic life in the country.

Portrait of Dr. Ayman Hammous

Dr. Ayman Hammous

Executive Director, MAS National

Leading the Muslim American Society nationally, Dr. Hammous has spent decades building institutions that serve, educate, and empower Muslim communities across America.

Portrait of Dr. Amina Darwish

Dr. Amina Darwish

Chaplain

A dedicated university chaplain, Dr. Darwish has served Muslim communities at Stanford and, before that, Columbia University — supporting students and families through every stage of life.