The Association of Indian Muslims of America (AIM) – 40 Years of Service

They were young, energetic, and full of ambition. Many had come to the United States—the world’s leading superpower—equipped with strong educational backgrounds and professional skills. They quickly found success, enriching the new home they had chosen.

Yet, instead of focusing solely on their own comfort and families, they chose a higher purpose: to give back to the community of their birth, India. For forty years, they have gathered regularly to reaffirm their roots and to pledge support for the growth of education, skills, and opportunities among Indian Muslims.

Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, a prominent Muslim, attributes the successnto many, especially Dr. Kaleem Khawja, who single-handedly steered the organization to its present level.

Through dedication and sacrifice, they raised millions of dollars. Money that they could have used for personal luxuries, they shared with the underprivileged, the neglected, and the marginalized—resources they believed were entrusted to them by the Creator. The Association became a forum of Muslim Indians of all origins, a unique feature that Muslim Indians often lack in India. Despite personal challenges, disagreements, and sacrifices, they succeeded in building one of the first organizations of Indian Muslims in North America: The Association of Indian Muslims of America (AIM).

Sometimes, they had disagreements with each other, and occasionally, a few might have left the organization due to frustration; yet, none harbored any ill will. They kept the hope alive so that their community in India finds itself in a dignified status.

Each of its volunteers, donors, staff, and office bearers, as well as their families, is worthy of recognition. They all responded to the call of their Creator, who tells them that life is incomplete without serving His creation, and those who spend their time lifting others are the fortunate ones. Their accounts are transparent, their work is self-explanatory, and their intentions are clear.

Founded in 1985 in Washington, D.C., AIM is a non-profit, non-political, IRS tax-exempt social service organization. Over the decades, AIM has grown into a nationwide network dedicated to:

• Promoting education and skill development in India

• Providing disaster relief during emergencies

• Strengthening ties between Muslims, other communities, and the government

• Advocating for justice and equal opportunities for Indian Muslims

  
  

Major Relief Efforts

Over the years, AIM has extended support to victims of natural disasters, sectarian violence, and humanitarian crises. Some highlights include:

• 1991: Relief to victims of violence in Delhi & Hyderabad — $25,000

• 2001: Earthquake relief in Gujarat — $25,000

• 2002: Genocide in Gujarat — $200,000 to rebuild homes, schools, and clinics

• 2005: Tsunami relief in Tamil Nadu & Kerala — $25,000

• 2019: Flood relief in Kerala & Hyderabad — $10,000

• 2020: COVID-19 pandemic relief in Delhi — $30,000

• 2024: Humanitarian relief for Palestinian victims in Gaza — $10,000

  
  

Supporting Education & Scholarships

Since 2000, AIM has placed a strong focus on building schools, improving infrastructure, and offering scholarships to poor and deserving students. The organization has supported schools, colleges, universities, and vocational training centers across India.

Examples of support include:

• 2005–2007: $60,000 – Technical Training Center, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

• 2009: $25,000 – Higher Secondary School, Hathras, UP

• 2010–2011: $40,000 – Junior High School, Faizabad, UP

• 2012–2013: $50,000 – Junior High School, Muzaffarnagar, UP

• 2016: $20,000 – Tailoring Training Center for girls, Hyderabad, AP

• 2018: $20,000 – Girls Inter College, Azamgarh, UP (computer center & science lab)

• 2020: $25,000 – Scholarships at Anjuman Islam University, Mumbai

• 2021: $32,000 – Scholarships in Mumbai & Meghalaya; exceptional support for disabled children in Kerala

• 2022: $127,000 – Scholarships at engineering colleges in Mumbai; computer centers in UP; school support in Gujarat and Aligarh

• 2023: $73,000 – Scholarships and new classrooms at schools and colleges in UP, Gujarat, and Aligarh

• 2024: $89,000 – Expanded scholarships in Mumbai; new classrooms and training centers in Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Azamgarh, and Gujarat

• 2003 -15:  $50,000 - Kumta, Karnatak - Built a building for classrooms in a High School.

  
  

Advocacy & Justice

From its inception, AIM has stood firmly against sectarian oppression. It has collaborated with humanitarian organizations in India and abroad to bring the grievances of minorities to the attention of government bodies and international institutions, demanding justice and equality.

Looking Ahead

As AIM celebrates its 40th anniversary, it expresses gratitude to all those who have supported its mission. The journey continues—with renewed commitment to education, justice, and social uplifting for Indian Muslims and for all communities in need.

Association of Indian Muslims of America, PO Box 10654, Silver Spring, Maryland 20914;  https://www.Aim-America.org.   This will help those who may be interested in contacting us.