UMMA: Supporting Communities Through Education and Resources

Over two decades ago, Ashfaq Mohiuddin was a firm believer in the power of education for achieving a productive life with a living wage. As a volunteer in Chicago, he started teaching General Educational Development (GED) classes. During visits to his parents in Gurnee, Mohiuddin noticed a similar need for GED education in northeast Lake County. He made connections between the challenges faced in South Chicago and the communities of Waukegan, North Chicago, and Zion, particularly regarding high school dropout rates among Latino and Black populations.

Mohiuddin launched GED classes in Waukegan, giving birth to the Urban Muslim Minority Alliance (UMMA). Initially a small tutoring center in 2004, UMMA has evolved into an organization focused on self-sufficiency education and resources. Today, it boasts a free grocery store, affordable housing, and the transformation of a former school into a community center.

Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham acknowledges UMMA’s evolution in response to community needs, from job search assistance and nutritious food to larger housing and community gathering spaces. These developments align with Waukegan’s growth and changing needs. UMMA provided food when students needed it, showing its adaptability and support for Waukegan’s community.

As UMMA grew, so did Mohiuddin. Alongside volunteering, he created data and analytics systems for companies like IBM. He founded Ruvu AI in 2020, focusing on bringing artificial intelligence to businesses. Though Mohiuddin relocated to northern California, he continues to lead the company while Hamaas Ibrahim manages UMMA’s daily operations.

Ibrahim began as a volunteer GED teacher and became Executive Director in March 2024. He emphasizes the need for practical workplace skills alongside GED education. UMMA offers classes in Microsoft Office, computer skills, English as a second language, and Spanish to respond to bilingual job demands, enhancing job prospects for the community.

Mohiuddin and Ibrahim have focused on guiding individuals toward local employers offering fair wages. In the early 2000s, a larger venue on Washington Street facilitated more assistance, including a food pantry, for students. UMMA organized coat drives and food boxes for Syrian and Rohingya refugees, along with rental aid for those lacking housing.

UMMA’s journey continued with a decision in 2019-2020 to provide affordable housing. Ibrahim recounts securing three homes in 18 months to address the high demand for larger family housing in Waukegan. By 2023, UMMA acquired a building on 10th Street for its Harvest Market, a grocery-style store offering free food, including fresh produce. The market operates on a self-select basis, serving hundreds each week without requiring proof of need.

The Harvest Market’s second floor provides affordable housing, accommodating diverse family sizes. A significant milestone for UMMA was purchasing a nearby former Catholic school in 2004, which is intended as an adult community center. Ibrahim envisions the entire block serving community necessities and tackling the area’s food desert crisis.

Plans involve moving existing offices to the new location and adding new educational programs. UMMA will offer AI classes, skills for trade careers, and wellness sessions. The goal is comprehensive community support with health education, fitness facilities, and a multipurpose room for varied activities.