“The Five Pillars of Islam (declaration of faith, prayer, fasting, alms, and pilgrimage) inspire, not only my life and work, but more importantly, how I treat others,” said Umar A. Hakim Dey, a native of Compton, who is the executive director of the Intellect Love Mercy (ILM) Foundation and founder of INKERIJ ® (encourage), an advisory for cultural shifting.
As a Muslim and African American, Umar said it’s his faith that encourages him to do acts of good, while having an empathetic mindsight.
Umar and ILM are working alongside the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region to build relationships with faith and community organizations throughout the region.
When disaster strikes, people often turn to their house of worship for help, which is why preparing these communities for emergencies is essential. The Red Cross strives to diversify partnerships with an equal and equitable representation of all faiths, to reach as many communities as possible before the next disaster hits.
As ILM Foundation’s director, Umar is responsible for facilitating its programming through a social entrepreneurial vision for change, which means change that provides an intuitive educational experience to empower Angelenos. Umar coordinates ILM’s programming, which include Humanitarian Day, a health fair for the homeless, and Go Beyond the G.A.M.E, a day sports and education clinic.
“We organize these heterogenic components for developing future leaders; while also encouraging interfaith dialogue and so we can rethink the way we are building powerful relationships,’ says Umar of the work.
“Earth’s collective history has moments of pain and joy,” he said. “I would like to use my time on Earth to correct social ills with my hands and my speech.”
About the ILM Foundation
Jennifer Johnson, Director of Red Cross Faith-Based Affiliates, describes Umar and the ILM Foundation as an instrumental part of the interfaith world.
“He has helped us gain access and build trust in Muslim and Jewish communities,” she said. “We are thrilled to include Umar in our host committee for the March 11 Faith Collection luncheon at the Islamic Center of Southern California.”
