By now, the cultural nights have become a staple of Zakat Foundation of America’s East Coast programs. Murat Kose, East Coast Programs Director, attributes the success to three main reasons: the events serve as an outing for the entire family, attendees can learn about world cultures, and all proceeds go to a good cause. The events also present a unique opportunity for families to give back, rather than giving into the over-consumption associated with holiday shopping.
In addition to responding to the Rohingya crisis, Zakat Foundation of America youth volunteers also organized a similar event in North Carolina to help affected communities in Puerto Rico. This time around, the menu offered classical Turkish dishes like lahmacun, a flat thin bread spread with minced ground meat and herbs, and Turkish-style cheese breads.