An annual Ramadan iftar hosted by the One Hand Foundation and Islamic Society of Central Pennsylvania brought together community leaders, officials and residents for an evening of reflection, cultural exchange and sharing.
Amid traditional lanterns and Ramadan-inspired decor, the event on Wednesday at the State College Municipal Building included prayer, speeches and a communal meal aimed at creating a sense of belonging and togetherness among the more than 70 attendees.
Iftar is the festive meal that breaks daily fast during Ramadan.
“Ramadan is not just about fasting—it’s about community, about coming together in the spirit of compassion and generosity,” Wael Jabr, president of the One Hand Foundation and a faculty member in Penn State’s Smeal College of Business, said in his welcoming remarks. “Tonight, we celebrate not only the breaking of our fast but also the friendships and bonds that strengthen our diverse community.”
In a proclamation recognizing the month of Ramadan “as a time of reflection, unity and celebration” in the State College community, Mayor Ezra Nanes said the iftar is “a cherished
communal event that transcends boundaries of ethnicity, nationality and creed, with families, friends and neighbors gathering to share in the blessings of sustenance and fellowship.”
The event also featured remarks Muslim women leaders, including Manal Elfakhani, a faculty member in Penn State’s College of Health and Human Development and Mai Atta, a doctoral candidate, writer and educator, who reflected on the role of women in Ramadan, the challenges they navigate and the importance of inclusivity and support for fasting individuals in schools and workplaces.
Following a communal prayer and breaking of the fast, the meal was provided by recently-opened State College restaurant Fatoum, with desserts from downtown cafe Dolce Luca.
Guests included members of the Islamic Society of Central PA Executive Council, Nanes and leaders from about 20 local organizations, government, educational institutions and emergency response agencies.
The State College-based One Hand Foundation is “inspired by Islamic values of service and generosity,” according to the nonprofit organization, and provides community support through food distributions, wellness programs and outreach initiatives. Its next event in April will focus on mental health and well-being in Clearfield County.
