FAQs

What makes Western Muslim Initiative different from other organizations?

The purpose of the organization is to encourage people to share ideas that would make their community a better place. We will be open to all ideas and the hope is to expand this beyond the Muslim community. Our job will be to connect ideas with people and resources if those connections do not already exist.

How will you build capacity and ensure you have the right skills to implement the initiatives?

That’s a very astute question because as a voluntary citizen group we have more restraints and fewer resources. We are going to use our organizational experiences, the relationships we have built over the years and other networks that we have to turn your idea into an initiative. Our goal will be to work small but think big so we will have discrete deliverables. Larger, longer-term projects may be delayed until the organization has established enough human capital.

How do you ensure crazy ideas are not implemented or heard?

Every idea should be heard and be given honest consideration. If the idea does not fall into one of our broad objectives as an organization then we will try our best to connect the idea with another group or organization that can implement it. In the end, it is up to the community members to bring what they feel is important to them. 

It sounds like you are a middleman. People could go to another organization, couldn’t they?

Another great question. Yes, they could. But we hope to offer something different - an open arms approach to all ideas. When it comes down to it, we are just a citizen group made up of individuals who want to make a positive difference and there are many organizations out there that have this same intention.

Why are you an independent group?

Because we already have charitable status. More importantly we like having a voice that is unhindered by cultural and religious politics and because we are strong proponents of having a diversity of organizations. Competition is healthy, especially when we are all working towards a common goal of making this world a better place. 

What do you want from us?

We want to work with people and organizations that want positive change in their communities and are open to innovative ways of achieving that goal. We will take anything you can give (ideas, criticisms, critiques, encouragement and networks) and will in turn try to give you the same.

Do you need funding from us?

For some collaborative projects, yes, we may need funding from your organization. But again, that would depend on the nature of the initiative and your involvement in it. If you are an individual or organization that just wants to help us out then you can donate online through Canada Helps.

How will you get the right people?

We do have a network of people and organizations but hope that we can work together to share each other’s networks in order to benefit the community.

Who is on your board?

We have a diverse group of Muslim women and men with a range of education, experiences, nationalities and approaches to spirituality.

How is the board elected?

Our previous bylaws stated that the board would be appointed. Since then the current board has amended the bylaws to 1-year terms that are determined by elections. So the next board after the current one will be elected.

What is your target group?

Our target demographic are Calgarian Muslims who were either born, raised, or moved to Calgary and Calgarians who are interested in positive interfaith dialogue and positive change.