Launching ConneautMasjid.org: Building the First Masjid in Ashtabula County

Today, I'm thrilled to announce the launch of ConneautMasjid.org and the beginning of our fundraising campaign to establish the first masjid in Ashtabula County, Ohio. This project represents more than just a building—it's about creating a spiritual home for our growing Muslim community in Northeast Ohio, inshaa' Allah.

A Historic Opportunity

For too long, Muslims in Conneaut and the surrounding areas have had to travel significant distances for Friday prayers, Islamic education, and community gatherings. With over 50 local Muslim families and 200 Muslim inmates at nearby correctional facilities, the need for a dedicated Islamic center has never been more pressing.

We've identified a beautiful property—a former church that can be transformed into a beacon of Islamic faith and community service, alhamdulillah. This 5,000 square foot building sits on 2.5 acres and offers the perfect foundation for our vision.

Our Vision

The Conneaut Islamic Center will serve as:

  • A House of Worship: Regular daily prayers, Friday Jumu'ah services, and Eid celebrations
  • An Educational Hub: Weekend Islamic school, Quran classes, and adult education programs
  • A Community Center: Youth programs, interfaith dialogue, and social services
  • A Da'wah Center: Spreading the message of Islam with wisdom and beautiful preaching

The Campaign

Our fundraising goal is $250,000 to purchase and initially renovate the building. This ambitious target reflects not just the cost of acquisition, but our commitment to creating a sustainable, debt-free institution that can serve generations to come.

Why This Matters

As someone who has served as a chaplain and witnessed firsthand the transformative power of having a dedicated space for worship and community, I cannot overstate the importance of this project. A masjid is more than walls and a roof—it's where:

  • Children learn to love their faith
  • Converts find community and support
  • Families celebrate milestones together
  • The broader community learns about Islam through our actions and hospitality

How You Can Help

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal. Whether you can donate $10 or $10,000, your support is invaluable. Beyond financial contributions, we need:

  • Dua: Keep this project in your prayers
  • Spreading the Word: Share our campaign with your networks
  • Ongoing Support: Consider becoming a monthly donor

This is our chance to establish a lasting legacy—a sadaqah jariyah that will benefit countless souls for generations.

[Hadith,Bukhari & Muslim,"Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise."]

Join Us

Visit ConneautMasjid.org to learn more about our project, see our plans, and make your contribution. Together, we can transform this vision into reality and establish a center of light in Ashtabula County.

May Allah accept our efforts and make this masjid a source of guidance, mercy, and blessings for all who enter it.

To support this historic project, please visit ConneautMasjid.org and donate today.

Launching ConneautMasjid.org: Building the First Masjid in Ashtabula County - Ali Camarata