Message from the Executive Director
Dear Mozaic community,
As we reflect on this past Ramadan, we are filled with gratitude for each of you who stood beside Mozaic and the families we serve. Because of your generosity and compassion, this sacred month became a time of nourishment, dignity, and connection for so many in our community.
From distributing meals to creating spaces of belonging and care, your support transformed simple acts into lasting impact. Ramadan reminded us that true success lies in how we serve others and uplift those around us.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people.” (Tabarani)
As we carry the spirit of Ramadan forward, we remain committed to serving with excellence, compassion, and purpose. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us continue to build a community rooted in care, resilience, and hope.
Eid Mubarak!
Raghad Bushnaq
Founder & Executive Director
Mozaic
Founder & Executive Director
Mozaic
Ramadan Preparation Projects
Barakah Boutique - Green Sale
On Saturday, February 7th, Mozaic hosted the Barakah Boutique Green Sale, offering families access to a curated selection of donated clothing in a welcoming and community-centered environment. From 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, attendees browsed a wide range of options for both children and adults, including everyday wear, formal pieces, and cultural garments.
The event created a meaningful space where families could find items that met their needs while also enjoying a sense of connection and care. Through the generosity of donations, many beneficiary families were able to receive brand new and gently used clothing at no cost, easing financial burdens while preserving dignity and choice.
Beyond the shopping experience, the Green Sale reflected Mozaic’s commitment to sustainability, compassion, and community support — bringing people together through shared resources and thoughtful giving.
Food Box Distribution
As Ramadan approached, Mozaic focused on ensuring families could begin the month feeling prepared, supported, and at ease. In partnership with IMF, 80 families across the DMV received three Ramadan Food Boxes each, including refugees, asylum seekers, single mothers, converts, and other families supported through Mozaic’s programs.
Each box was thoughtfully assembled with staple items such as lentils, sugar, flour, 2 bags of 10lb rice, pasta, jam, salt, olives, olive oil, vegetable oil, tahini, and more, helping families prepare meals and break their fast with dignity throughout the month.
This initiative reflects Mozaic’s ongoing commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting households navigating financial and transitional challenges. Thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers, this effort transformed community support into tangible relief, ensuring families could enter Ramadan with stability and peace of mind.
We are grateful to our partners at IMF for their continued collaboration in making this initiative possible.
A Ramadan to Remember
Lanterns of Syria – Annual Iftar
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, Mozaic hosted its Annual Ramadan Community Iftar at The Westin Washington Dulles Airport Hotel, bringing together families, partners, and community leaders for an evening centered on unity and purpose. This year’s gathering was inspired by the Lanterns of Syria theme, symbolizing light, resilience, and renewed hope for families impacted by displacement.
The program highlighted the organization’s continued growth and impact, sharing how community support has contributed to meaningful change across programs serving families and youth. Reflections from guest speakers offered perspective on ongoing humanitarian needs and encouraged attendees to remain engaged in supporting vulnerable communities.
The evening also featured uplifting nasheed performances and moments of storytelling that honored both Mozaic’s journey and the resilience of those it serves. Guests shared a meal, connected with one another, and explored ways to contribute to ongoing initiatives, making the night both meaningful and memorable.
Mozaic extends sincere gratitude to the sponsors who made this evening possible. Special thanks to Platinum Sponsor Falafel Inc; Bronze Sponsors Crescent Foods and Ashburn Orthodontics; Community Friends Wellness Through Counseling and IntegRiva Consulting; and In-Kind Sponsors Mubarak Paper Co and The Textured Brush. Their generous support helped bring this meaningful gathering to life and continues to strengthen our shared commitment to serving families with dignity and care.
Ladies Ramadan Qiyam: A Night of Prayer and Reflection
On Saturday, February 28, Mozaic hosted a Ladies Ramadan Qiyam from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM, creating a dedicated space for women to spend the night in prayer, du’a, and reflection. The gathering offered a meaningful opportunity to step away from daily routines and fully engage in worship during the blessed month.
Throughout the night, more than 120 attendees took part in collective prayer, personal supplication, and thoughtful reminders that encouraged mindfulness and spiritual growth. The environment fostered a deep sense of peace and connection, allowing women to strengthen their relationship with Allah while sharing in a collective experience of faith and reflection.
Meals on Wheels
This Ramadan, Mozaic successfully delivered 365 hot, nutritious meals to families throughout the month, including refugee families, asylum seekers, and parolees. Many households face additional financial strain during Ramadan, and these meals ensured families could break their fast with culturally appropriate, wholesome food prepared with care and respect for their traditions.
Each meal provided more than nourishment — it brought comfort, dignity, and relief, allowing families to focus on reflection, prayer, and community rather than worrying about daily meals. Delivered directly to homes, the program made a tangible difference for families who needed it most.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors and volunteers, every meal delivered represented a meaningful act of support and connection during this sacred month.
Impact Highlights:
- 365 meals delivered
- Each meal provided warmth, sustenance, and comfort for families facing food insecurity
- Donations transformed into tangible support that upheld dignity and community care
The Jasmine Tree: Ramadan Daily Reflections and Daily Quran Khitmah Program
During Ramadan, The Jasmine Tree hosted daily reflection gatherings designed to nurture the heart, deepen faith, and encourage intentional living. These virtual sessions created a dedicated space for women to pause, reflect, and reconnect with their spiritual purpose throughout the month.
Each gathering explored themes of tarbiya, self-awareness, and personal growth, encouraging participants to align their inner development with their daily actions. More than a series of sessions, it became a consistent circle of reflection, support, and spiritual companionship during the sacred days and nights of Ramadan.
The program fostered meaningful engagement and lasting effect, helping participants carry the spirit of Ramadan beyond the month itself.
During the last ten nights of Ramadan, 27 women took part in the Daily Quran Khitmah Program, dedicating time each night to recitation and reflection. This shared commitment created a sense of consistency and spiritual focus, allowing participants to engage more deeply with the Quran during these especially significant nights. Participants were members of the community as well as refugee women who have been taking ESOL and sewing classes with Mozaic.
Fresh Meat Distribution
As part of its Ramadan efforts, Mozaic distributed fresh meat to 20 families, helping ease the burden of grocery costs while enabling households to prepare familiar and nourishing meals. This initiative supported families in observing Ramadan in a way that felt both comfortable and meaningful. Thank you to the donor family who donated the meat!
Eid Gift Toy Drive: Spreading Joy to Children
This Ramadan, Mozaic’s Eid Gift Toy Drive brought smiles, excitement, and the spirit of celebration to children across our community. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, every toy donated will go directly to Mozaic beneficiary families, ensuring that children experience the joy and wonder of Eid.
We are grateful to these generous partners who made this possible:
- Noble Gardens Academy
- Aya Montessori (MD Campus)
- ADAMS Center – Sully
- Cozy Village Playcafe
Through their contributions, countless children were able to celebrate Ramadan and Eid with a sense of happiness, inclusion, and delight. From gift-wrapped surprises to thoughtfully prepared gift bags (generously sponsored by Mubarak Paper Co), each donation brought meaningful celebration and created lasting memories for the families we serve.
The drive reflects Mozaic’s commitment not only to meeting essential needs but also to ensuring children feel the joy, excitement, and dignity of these special occasions.
Hands of Joy: A Henna Gathering
On Sunday, March 15, Mozaic hosted Hands of Joy, bringing together women and girls from our beneficiary families for a joyful pre-Eid gathering. A local henna artist generously provided her services free of charge, allowing attendees to participate in this cherished cultural tradition in an accessible and welcoming setting.
The event created a space for laughter, conversation, and shared anticipation for Eid, giving families a chance to relax and enjoy meaningful moments together. Beyond providing essential support, this gathering emphasized joy, celebration, and community connection during the blessed month.
Zakat Al Fitr Distribution
Mozaic staff visited our zakat recipients to hand over Zakat Al Fitr collected from the community. The gift brought smiles to their faces and a huge sense of relief as they navigate the various challenges they face resettling in this country that they now call home. Cuts in government assistance have left many worried month-to-month in meeting rent, grocery needs and utility bills. Thank you to our donors and our partner from Quba Islamic Center.
In the Spotlight: Our Incredible Volunteers
This Ramadan, our community came together in the most beautiful ways—and none of it would have been possible without our amazing volunteers. From packing and distributing food boxes to organizing events, coordinating workshops, and offering their time and hearts, these incredible individuals helped make this Ramadan truly special for the families we serve.
We are deeply grateful for each and every one of them—your dedication, energy, and compassion made a real difference in the lives of our community members. Thank you for helping bring the spirit of Ramadan to life!
Ramadan Volunteers
Food Box Packing
[Mozaic Volunteers]
- Jihad Al Najjar
- Hadi Aboud
[IMF Volunteers]
- Mahmoud Selim
- Marian Atallah
- Mila Bitar
- Dildora Kakhmatullaeva
- Fatmah Alnejada
- Kiven Cuddy Zuniga
- Nodira M. Mughes
- Amr Hosny
- Teyfang Dederous
- Mohamad Nassar
- Marrell Jones
- Jesmin Rahman
- Mira Mehri
- Abreshmi Nowar
- Hana Altimimi
- Agnes Zalezakova
- Hilda Gonzalez
- Jood Al Nabali
- Elmiz Eyjaz Zada
- Sandrine Ourigou Sourigou
- Salma Nasir
- Feras Abualamra
- Ahmad Omar
- Mona Wang
- Maria Avesode
- Hee Jin Byun
- Sohen Esmail
- Greta Pais
- Mohamad Jessini
- Danya Seraj
- Gulrukh Gamwalla
- Regan Abeer
- Noha Gebaly
- Marina Lang
- Noha Elgabaly
Food Box Delivery
- Dalia Ramahi
- Fouzia Farooq
- Dana Ramahi
- Fatoum El-Yacoubi
- Sara Naeem
- Ali Mashaal
- Zain Al-Helal
- Bahar Toomey
- Jaafar Soulimani
- Bronislava Shmilovich
- Jaafar Shmilovich
- Reem Mustafa
- Zainuddin Palakka
- Tanweer Akhtar
- Bethany Rasheed
- Sajid Elbasha
- AlMuthanna Al-Sheekh
- Taha Al-Sheekh
- Taha Sheriff
- Mohamed Zitouni
- Durkhanai Stanekzai
- Hamidou Diallo
- Noha El-Gebaly
Meals on Wheels
- Dalia Ramahi
- Dana Ramahi
- Husna Sheriff
- Ali Mashaal
- Noma Murtuza
- Bronislava Shmilovich
- Shaimaa Mohamed
- Sara Naeem
- Zainuddin Palakka
- Taha Sharif
Lanterns of Syria - Annual Ramadan Iftar
- Dana Atiyat
- Mays Kalo
- Farhan Khaznadar
- Dalia Ramahi
- Dana Ramahi
- Kouthar Alouini
- Soraya Alouini-Beck
- Eman Khalid
- Tariq Shafaq
Ladies Ramadan Qiyam: A Night of Worship & Reflection
- Humera Ali
- Nayla Ali
- Lybah Ali
- Zoya Ali
- Noureen Mohamed
- Serene Daken
- Raahima Siddiqui
- Runia Jahan
- Rahdia Shamim
- Afiya Shamim
Hands of Joy: A Henna Gathering
- Bahar Toomey
- Kyle Hekim
- Maryam Rao (henna artist)
- Laura Doggett
- Soraya Alouini-Beck
- Tamana Burhan
- Haneen Elmassry
- Rehab Mustafa
Meat Distribution
- Dalia Ramahi
- Dana Ramahi
- Yazan Ramahi
Testimonies
Sajid Elbasha
My experience helping Mozaic with the Ramadan food boxes was special, coming from the Middle East it was one of the first times sensing that warmth of a community coming together to help one another. Delivering the boxes and easing some of the process by speaking Arabic brought happiness to my heart and it’s an experience that I would definitely want to relive and share with people to further grow this community!
Zainuddin Palakka
My experience volunteering with Mozaic during the Ramadan food boxes was incredibly fulfilling. Serving the community during Ramadan helped me reflect on the importance of compassion, teamwork, and giving for the sake of Allah. The impact of these programs extended beyond those we served and truly touched my own heart as well. Thank you Mosaic for this rewarding opportunity to serve needy families in the DMV area.
Maryam Rao
I helped with the Henna gathering for the young girls. The experience was amazing seeing so many young girls getting to feel pretty on their special day made everything sooo worth it. 100% would do it again.
Dalia Ramahi
Volunteering to drop off Ramadan food boxes, distribute meat, and pass out Eid gifts has been an incredibly meaningful experience for me. It’s truly impactful to give back my time and support the Mozaic community in any way I can. As Muslims, it feels deeply rewarding to spend in the way of Allah through our time and resources for the benefit of others. This is a beautiful community filled with sincere and warm, and generous people. The team at Mozaic works so incredibly hard and on top of that they support their volunteers so much. They are a group that truly embodies ihsan (excellence) in everything they do mashallah. I feel grateful and happy to get the opportunity to volunteer.
Partnerships
Thank You to Our Partners & Supporters: Ramadan Programs
This Ramadan, our community came together in generosity, compassion, and care — and it would not have been possible without the support of incredible partners who shared their time, resources, and heart. Their contributions helped ensure that families in our community were nourished, supported, and celebrated throughout the holy month. We are deeply grateful for the role each organization played in making this Ramadan meaningful.
🍽️ Meals on Wheels Partners
We are especially thankful to Ottoman Kitchen and Cozmo One for preparing and delivering delicious Meals on Wheels for families across our community. Their care went far beyond food — it brought comfort to elders and families who otherwise might have gone without, ensuring everyone could break their fast with warmth and dignity.
🛍️ Ramadan Food Box Partner
We extend heartfelt gratitude to IMF for partnering with us on our Ramadan Food Box initiative. Through their support, hundreds of families received thoughtfully assembled food boxes stocked with essentials for Ramadan. This partnership helped ease financial strain for many households and reinforced the spirit of giving, community, and mutual care.
Check them out here: IMF – International Monetary Fund
🎁 Toy Drive Partners
Thank you to these generous supporters who helped bring joy and celebration to children through our Ramadan toy drives:
Thanks to their contributions, many children experienced the joy, wonder, and excitement that make Ramadan and Eid so special.
✨ Henna Artist
We are grateful to our talented henna artist, Maryam Rao who led a special event preparing our beneficiary families for Eid. Her artistry brought joy, creativity, and cultural connection, creating a memorable experience for children and adults alike.
This Ramadan, your generosity created moments of connection, comfort, and hope for families navigating difficult circumstances. Each act of support carried a message to families that they are seen, valued, and supported by a caring community.
We are sincerely grateful to all of our partners and supporters. Your time, talent, and contributions made this Ramadan unforgettable and deeply impactful. Thank you for walking alongside us as we serve and uplift our community — together, we make Ramadan a time of light, generosity, and unity.
Sponsorships
🎉 Grateful for Our Sponsors: Ramadan Programs
Mozaic extends heartfelt gratitude to the generous individuals and organizations who partnered with us to make our Ramadan programs possible. Their support ensured families across Northern Virginia were nourished, celebrated, and cared for during this holy month. From Meals on Wheels and Ramadan Food Boxes to toy drives and Eid prep activities, our sponsors’ contributions made a tangible and meaningful impact on the families we serve.
We extend special thanks to the Sisters Seeking Baraka Group for their unwavering support of local drives, including Mozaic’s initiatives. Their generosity and dedication to serving the community continue to uplift and strengthen the impact of our collective efforts.
🎁 Gift Bag Sponsors
Asma Iqbal - Mubarak Paper Co
We are deeply thankful to Asma Iqbal and Mubarak Paper Co for generously providing beautifully curated gift bags for our beneficiary families. Her support added a personal and thoughtful touch, helping families feel celebrated and valued during Ramadan.
Check her on: https://www.mubarakpaper.com/
Nadia Kamal and Family!
We are also grateful to Nadia Kamal for donating gift bags for the children in our community. Her generosity helped bring smiles and joy to young beneficiaries, making Eid even more special.
We are sincerely appreciative of all our sponsors for their generosity, trust, and commitment to the community. Their support created moments of joy, comfort, and connection — reminding families that they are seen, valued, and supported.
Donate Today
Support Mozaic’s Ongoing Work
As we reflect on this past Ramadan, we invite you to continue supporting the heart of Mozaic—our community.
From youth programs and food distribution to case management and skill-building initiatives, this work continues year-round—but none of it is possible without you.
Your support helps us:
- Keep our doors open and maintain a safe, welcoming space
- Sustain daily operations and essential services
- Strengthen long-term programs for youth and families
- Respond to urgent needs as they arise
Every contribution is an investment in dignity, stability, and opportunity.
Help Build a Roof for a Displaced Family
War has left countless Syrian families without a place to call home. Among them is a family of 12—six adults and six children—who have been displaced repeatedly and cannot afford stable housing.
Their home still stands, but only as damaged walls and a collapsed ceiling. Rebuilding three rooms and restoring electricity and water would allow them to finally return to a safe and stable space.
A repaired home means:
- No more constant displacement
- No more unaffordable rent
- A secure place for their children to grow and their family to rebuild
Your donation goes directly toward construction, labor, and essential utilities—bringing them one step closer to living safely and with dignity.
Support Families in Urgent Need
This Ramadan, we supported families facing urgent challenges—from medical crises to financial hardship and displacement.
These 7 active cases reflect individuals working to regain stability:
Each story is different. Support the one that resonates most with you—or give a little across multiple families. Every contribution, no matter the size, goes a long way.
Your support provides direct relief for essential needs like housing, medical care, and daily expenses—bringing dignity and hope to those who need it most.
Upcoming Events
Eid Celebration for Mozaic Families
On Sunday, April 5th, Mozaic will be hosting a special Eid Party in Dewberry Hall at George Mason University, exclusively for our beneficiary families.
This celebration is dedicated to the refugee and immigrant families we serve — a day of joy, community, and meaningful moments for parents and children alike. As part of the celebration, we will be gifting toys to the children to ensure they feel the excitement and warmth of Eid.
We are inviting our community to help us make this day extra special by sponsoring $40 gift cards to be gifted to refugee children.
If you would like to support, you can contribute directly through here:
Your generosity helps us turn Eid into a day filled with dignity, celebration, and lasting smiles.
Opportunities to Get Involved
New Volunteer Opportunity: Share Your Skills at Mozaic
Mozaic is looking for dedicated volunteers who are ready to share their skills, hobbies, and passions with our community! Whether you’re experienced in teaching ESOL, sewing, crochet, tutoring, art, fitness, or any other beneficial skill, we’d love to create meaningful programming around what you have to offer.
This is a beautiful opportunity to use your talents in service of others — building connection, confidence, and community along the way. Training and ongoing support will be provided to help you lead with ease and impact.
👉 Interested in sharing your skills? Sign up here: Mozaic Volunteer Interest Form
Join Us for Eid at Mozaic – Sunday, April 5th! 🌙✨
Mozaic is honored to host a special Eid Party exclusively for our beneficiary families on Sunday, April 5th.
This gathering is our way of celebrating you — the families we are blessed to serve. Join us for a joyful afternoon filled with food, fun activities for both kids and adults, and beautiful moments of connection as we come together to mark Eid.
We pray this celebration brings ease, happiness, and lasting memories to your home. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
👉Sign up to volunteer here: Eid Celebration Volunteer Form
Resources for Immigrant Families in Northern Virginia
Below are trusted local and national organizations offering support to immigrant, refugee, and newcomer families in Northern Virginia. These resources provide assistance with legal rights, resettlement services, rapid response support, employment connection, and newcomer integration.
⚖️ Legal Rights & Protection
Office of New Americans – Virginia Department of Social Services (ONA)
Provides statewide support to help immigrants successfully integrate into Virginia communities — including employment, housing, education, healthcare access, and citizenship support resources.
Tahirih Justice Center
National nonprofit based in Falls Church that provides free legal services and holistic support for immigrant women and girls fleeing gender‑based violence, human trafficking, and persecution.
📞 Rapid Response & Emergency Support
Virginia Rapid Response Network
A coalition offering urgent assistance, know‑your‑rights information, community training, and support during immigration enforcement or crisis situations.
🤝 Refugee & Newcomer Support Services
Northern Virginia Resettling Afghan Families Together (NOVA RAFT)
Local organization focused on long‑term settlement support for Afghan refugees — including family assistance, referrals, and community connection services.
Refugee Resettlement Services – Virginia Department of Social Services
Coordinates statewide refugee resettlement with six partnering agencies providing employment support, youth mentoring, health services, and foster care assistance for unaccompanied minors.
💼 Employment, Training & Career Support
Resources for Families — Immigrant & Refugee Outreach Center (IRO Center)
Offers education, training, and workforce development services — including ESL classes and vocational training programs that help immigrants build career skills and secure employment.
🌍 Community, Advocacy & Inclusion
Virginia Coalition for Immigrant Rights (VACIR)
A statewide advocacy coalition that works to win dignity, safety, and quality of life for immigrant communities through partnership, education, and action.
Boat People SOS (BPSOS)
Nonprofit providing community development, health and mental health support, family services, and advocacy for Vietnamese refugees and immigrants in Northern Virginia.
📝 Please note: Services, eligibility requirements, and availability may change. Families are encouraged to contact organizations directly or visit their websites for the most up‑to‑date information.
💛 Thank you for helping build a more welcoming and supportive community for our immigrant and refugee neighbors.
