Sunday, November 19, 2023
All for One First Mobile Health Fair
By : Alia Shah
All for One in cooperation with the Gurudwara Mid Hudson Sikh Society held our very first mobile health fair on November 19th at the beautiful Gurudwara on Ketchamtown Road. More than 50 people attended this very successful event and we are so pleased to be able provide this crucial service to our community.
We are so grateful to the Mid Hudson Sikh Society for hosting this event. They made everyone feel welcome and prepared a delicious meal and snacks for everyone in attendance. Our heartfelt thanks to the board and members of the Gurudwara for your kindness and hospitality. Special thanks to Hardeep Singh and Barinder Dhaliwal for helping us with the planning and coordination for this event!
We were truly blessed to have so many volunteers for this important event. With the help of both our medical and non-medical volunteers we were able to provide testing for blood pressure, diabetes, BMI (body mass Index), and dementia. Our health care volunteers were able to give advice on follow-up for any concerning results. Reshma Hussain, PA, was our professional blood glucose tester. She pricked about 50 fingers and Dr Kamran Haleem took an equal amount of blood pressures!
With the generous support of Pulse MD, we were also able to provide flu shots! Our thanks to Faisal Ashraf and Dr Ambreen Choudri for providing this service.
In addition to medical information, Dr Uzma Qureshi, provided mental health information on depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Dr Seema Rizvi, the president of All for One, was on hand to provide information on geriatric issues.
Our youth volunteers created a very informative poster on the dangers of smoking and vaping.
A special thanks to the Dutchess County Department of Health, represented by Aena Rizvi and Doug. for providing education on diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, communicable diseases, and other issues.
To all our volunteers and board members, thank you for making this event a great success! Your support and efforts allow us to continue to help those in need. Big thanks to all the attendees for your interest in health and your participation in this event. We look forward to organizing more mobile health fairs in the future.
Sunday, April 2, 2023
All For One 2nd Ramadan Solidarity Event
By : Alia Shah
The All for One organization in co-operation with Masjid Al-Mutakabbir, the Mid-Hudson Islamic Association, and the Dutchess County Interfaith Council, was blessed to hold a Second Ramadan Solidarity Event at the Family Partnership Center in Poughkeepsie.
It was a beautifully diverse gathering of people from all faiths coming together to join the Muslim community in the celebration of Ramadan, our holy month of fasting. In addition to sharing our faith traditions with the broader community, we provided hundreds of meals to the homeless and sheltered people in Poughkeepsie. New this year, we will also, be feeding deserving people in Pakistan, India, Somalia, Syria, Haiti, and Bangladesh, and will be donating Eid gifts to orphanages in these countries.
Simala Qamar was our MC for the evening, and she did a wonderful job introducing all our honored speakers and keeping the program on track. The program began with a beautiful recitation of verses from the Quran, the holy book of Islam, by Adam Mah. This was followed by the inspiring welcome address by Dr. Seema Rizvi, the President of All for One. She shared how fasting in the month of Ramadan motivates Muslims to empathize with those who struggle to feed their families on a daily basis, and that is why in addition to fasting, it is also a month of increased charity. Imam Anwar Kearney of Masjid Al-Mutakabbir presented the Blessing of Ramadan, and emphasized how events like this gathering are important in helping to combat Islamophobia by allowing Muslims to share our faith traditions of peace, charity, and community with our neighbors and friends from other faiths.
Next up we heard from elected officials, Rob Rolison ( NYS Senator 39th District), Marc Nelson (Mayor of Poughkeepsie), and Nedra Patterson Thompson (Councilmember 7th Ward). Rob Rolison and Marc Nelson informed us about the wonderful youth programs they have spearheaded in the City of Poughkeepsie, including the upgrading of the gymnasium at the Family Partnership where this event was held. Nedra Patterson emphasized the importance of diversity in creating the beautiful fabric of our society.
The next set of speakers were leaders from the faith communities and non-profit organizations. Zubair Zoha represented the Mid Hudson Islamic Association (MHIA). Also speaking were, Jody Miller, the Dutchess Commission on Human Rights Chairperson and John McKenna, the Executive Director of the Dutchess Interfaith Council. Adil Ameer from MHIA spoke about charity in Ramadan. Deirdra Jen Brown a representative of the Bahai Faith, Betsy Kopstein-Stuts a representative Jewish Federation and Balaji Jilla a representative Hindu Samaj Temple all shared wisdom from their faith traditions.
Ali Duale represented the Mid-Hudson Quran Academy and encouraged the Muslim parents present to bring their children to the classes offered at the Academy.
The program concluded with a dua (prayer) led by Abdullah Wajid from Masjid Ar Rashid in Beacon.
Finally, after the Muslim call to prayer, Adhan, we broke the fast with traditional foods from various Muslim countries. Sharing the Iftar (fast breaking) meal with this diverse community made for a very special evening.
A heartfelt thank you to all that took the time from their busy schedules to share in this very meaningful event and to those who donated their time to make this event a success.
Sunday, September 18th, 2022
All For One 1st Annual Gala
By : Aena Iqbal & Jena Ray
.All for One celebrated a very successful annual gala, on Sunday, September 18th 2022 at the Holiday Inn in Poughkeepsie, NY. A large turnout of 250 people, included area residents, public officials, academics and students, who came to show their support for the All For One mission.
Gala event speakers featured Simala Qamar EMCEE. All for One Founder and President Dr Seema Rizvi, in her speech, explained the All for One historical background and All for One accomplishments. Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison, a speaker at the event, talked about the importance of holding such events that bring the community together. Assembly woman Nidra Thompson, one the event speakers, talked about the importance of mental health, and suicide prevention. Bard College Dean Paul Mancenelli, talked about helping underprivileged Middle east students. Harv Hilowitz- Director Hudson Valley Afghan Circle Refugee Resettlement. All for One Youth Initiative speakers included Jena Ray, an All For One collaborator, who spoke to the Community Youth Enrichment Initiative. The latter aims to provide enrichment options for youth (aged 10-18) from disadvantaged family backgrounds, who cannot afford things beyond the necessities for their kids. This can take the form of access to music, sports lessons/equipment, vocational training, and working in community farms. The aim is also to provide positive role models, and mentorship. This initiative will support and bolster public programs, as well. No effort is too small, if it is backed by conviction and perseverance. Samirah Aziz, a youth leader, talked about recruiting students to address issues like racism and hatred. Mutual Aid Organizer Aena Iqbal presented her self-made video on Koohi Goth Women’s Hospital for women’s health and empowerment. Syed Shafi Ahmed, President of Karachi Welfare and Development Authority, who has raised 35,000 for flood victim in Connecticut, talked about global initiatives in Karachi, Pakistan
All for One Gala honoree awards recipients highlighted Dr Irfan Moin and Qari Mohammad Asil Khan for their outstanding contributions to our community as educators, philanthropists, pioneers of Al Noor Sunday School.
All for One plaques were given to Former Legislature Rebeca Edwards, Marian Schwartz, and Simala Qamar EMCEE for Community Services. Najiba Jonagan and Gloria Lucas were awarded for volunteer services, Youth leader award was given to Samirah Aziz, and Media award for Malika Rao.
The following youth volunteers were honored, by receiving certificates from Senator Sue Serino: Alisha Mokal, Sahar Mokal, Samirah Aziz, Ayman Ali, Iman Ali, Ayaan Haleem, Shayaan Haleem, Ethan Borress, Jai Borress, Zuha Anwar, Zayd Anwar, Mariam Anwar, and Aena Iqbal.
Ayesha Sami, and Haris Sami (7 and 9 respectively) were given a special youngest donor award for contributing $350 from their piggy bank !
The special Hudson Valley Muslim Community award was given to Dr Seema Rizvi for her work in the community through the All for One platform she created.
Proclamation was sent to All for One from Senator Sue Serino and County Executive Marc Molinaro
All for One Gala Community and Student Panel Discussion promoted conversation on diversity and inclusion to promote mutual understanding and civic engagement
Moderator-Sultaan Mokal, EMCEE Dr Sadaf Ahsan, Community Leaders panelist: Jody Miller- Chairperson Dutchess County Commission on human Rights, Ken Roman- former Deputy Commissioner, BOCES Superintendent Jason Shatlic Dutchess County Legislature Yvette Valdez Smith, Rebecca Edward- History Professor Vassar College former Dutchess County Legislature, Students panelist: Emma Varghese, Chiamaka Okafor, Ayaan Baloch, and Jahnvi Mundra
Proceeds from items sold at the gala (like candles, books, prints, and handicrafts) garnered funds for the organization’s initiatives.
Thanks to these efforts, and people’s generous donations, All For One was able to raise $30,000, these funds will go to support local and global humanitarian causes.
Friday, August 12
All for One kicks off first annual gala
By: Mallika Rao
All for one would like to invite you to our upcoming 1st Annual Gala, which is scheduled for September 18th, 2022 at the Holiday Inn on South Road in Poughkeepsie.
All for One started in 2016 as a seed of solidarity that grew into a plant that has now established roots as a 501 C (3) non-profit organization.
It only happened with the support and collective action of compassionate people standing together for solidarity, peace, tolerance, love and kindness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, All for One held food drives to combat food insecurity for two years, assisted with refugee resettlement, and aided local people in need. All for One also works on global health issues and humanitarian causes.
Our upcoming 1st Annual Gala is scheduled for September 18th, 2022. Please try your best to attend this Gala to stand for solidarity, peace, kindness, and helping humanity. Your ongoing support and collective action are highly appreciated. Any added donations / proceeds go to support All for One, One for All humanitarian programs.
To buy tickets now visit: https://allforoneunitedwestand.ticketspice.com/all-for-one-united-gala
Monday, April 25
All for One Ramadan Solidarity Event held at Mansion Square Park City of Poughkeepsie
By: Mallika Rao
All for one, with our beautiful and generous Muslim community, were very pleased to feed hundreds of homeless and sheltered people on Friday, April 8. in the City of Poughkeepsie. They all were our guests.
From left: Poughkeepsie City Councilwoman Nedra Patterson Thompson, Masjid Al-Mutakabbir Mosque (in Poughkeepsie) Imam Anwar Kearney, Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison, “All for One” President Dr. Seema Rizvi and John Penney, director of community engagement for the City of Poughkeepsie
Ramadan is a holy month for reflection, spiritual purification, reading the Quran, being charitable and doing good deeds. By refraining from food, experiencing hunger is a means of developing compassion for the poor and less fortunate who experience such feelings.
In attendance were elected officials, including Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison; the first African American and Muslim city councilwoman in Poughkeepsie Nedra Patterson Thompson; Poughkeepsie city councilwoman Yvonne Flowers; Dutchess County Commission on Human Rights Chairman Jody Miller and members; Dutchess Interfaith President John McKenna and members; Deputy Commissioner Emergency Medical Response Ken Roman; local law enforcement officers; the local school and college community; the local faith community; the local Muslim Community; our guests visiting from shelters; Afghan Refugees; and the Jewish Muslim Alliance.
This event demonstrated a great example of peace, solidarity, understanding and acceptance, which is what All for One is about.
We would like to thank all of our guests for attending and celebrating the blessing of holy month of Ramadan.
A special thanks to all of our "All for One” volunteers for their kind effort and hard work on this event. It's always a collective action, and we thank our youth, high school and college students for their help.
May Allah God help to bring us peace, solidarity and kindness for each other. May the world be as one.
Monday, April 25
All for One helps Afghan refugees in Capital District
By: Mallika Rao
Due to the huge influx of Afghan refugees in a short period of time, the Islamic Center of the Capital District in Schenectady, New York has been working with the U.S. government in refugee resettlement.
On the weekend of March 12, they requested the community to help in getting supplies and also to help restock the food pantry. We met with and interacted with a number of the 200 total refugee families currently residing in the area who shared their stories. In the past, "All for One" has helped refugees from Schenectady and Albany.
"All for One" donated winter coats, household items and other supplies to a total of over 50 families as well as over $2,000 in monetary donations for the food pantry.
Sunday, October 10
All for One Unites Against Hate
By: Mallika Rao
The Dutchess County Commission on Human Rights hosted the United Against Hate Rally on Oct. 3 in collaboration with All for One-One for All, the Dutchess County African American Clergy Association and the Jewish Federation of Dutchess County.
United Against Hate took place in Poughkeepsie last Sunday to address ongoing hate and bias-related incidents, both in Dutchess County and across the United States.
Nearly 200 protesters marched from the corners of Market Street and Main Street to Waryas Park, before convening at the park to presentations from speakers ranging from U.S. Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney to Dutchess County Acting Sheriff Kirk Imperati.
All for One-One for All founder Dr. Seema Rizvi spoke to how the country has changed in recent years, with hate crimes at the highest level in more than a decade, according to the latest data from the FBI.
"Our nation is increasingly polarized and divided. It used to be a nation that welcomed migrants with open arms," said Dr. Rizvi. "Hate crimes happen because of fear and ignorance. And which we can overcome with education, cultural exchange, understanding and cultural affinity."
New York State Senator Sue Serino spoke to how tone from public officials matters in this divisive social and political climate.
"We set the tone, people hold us to a higher standard," she said. "It is about kindness and respect, and treating each other equally."
It is a sentiment echoed by Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, who referenced the late Congressman John Lewis's iconic walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge for civil rights.
He explained how this example should be a model of hope amidst a divided time in Congress.
“The great project of our generation is whether we can build a future that is better than the one we have had before," he said, "but we cannot be surprised that there are people waiting on the other side of this bridge trying to stop. And we have to be strong, and we have to stick together."
Dutchess County Acting Sheriff Kirk Imperati, who step in to fill the shoes of the late longtime county sheriff Butch Anderson, shared how the late sheriff's mantra reigns true as the police department looks to reform itself in the wake of ongoing racial justice movements.
"We live by the shares Butch Anderson's mantra, treat people the way you want to be treated," he said, "and we [used it to] develop our police modernization and reform plan."
Before the rally, civil servant Nicholas Kalogris spoke to how the social and political climate affects our mental health.
"The level of anger and rage has risen to levels that we have not seen in years," he said. "I do not see it as a healthy way to move forward in our community and also as a nation in general."
Kalogris said that he showed up to spread the message that Americans need to unite despite their differences.
"We need to send a message to the community that we have to look at what brings us together, not what brings us apart," he said.