What is YM?
Young Muslims (YM) is a pioneering national youth organization that has been on the youth scene since the early 90’s. We have established a well organized network of local youth groups that we call NeighborNets (which means network of neighbors) across the United States and Canada. Each NeighborNet is a dynamic youth group which attempts to build a solid understanding of the principles of Islam amongst its members by helping them put these principles into practice. By providing the youth with an Islamic atmosphere where they can form bonds of brotherhood with their peers, they become comfortable with Islam and its teachings. We stress the importance of knowing, understanding, and fulfilling our individual and collective obligations as Muslims.
Young Muslims constantly strives to embody the Quranic verse: Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity. (3:104)
Check out the official YM Promo Video here:
What is a NeighborNet?
The foundation of YM’s activities is the “NeighborNet”. This is a weekly gathering of knowledge, advice, and spiritual empowerment. The comfortable, friendly atmosphere present with each NeighborNet across YM’s national network allows an attendee to immediately connect with other attendees. Is through this gathering that strong bonds of friendship are formed, which fosters mutual mentorship and progression.
Each NeighborNet has two major components. The first is the discussion circle (halaqah). It is during this time that the NeighborNet Coordinator conducts a discussion of an Islamic topic that was prepared for the group. The topics are uniquely designed to provide these young minds with a balanced and comprehensive understanding of Islam, and are presented in a manner easily relating the subject matter to the experiences of the attendees.
Every NeighborNet is combined with an activity/sports component as well. These activities are the medium of developing mutual familiarity (ta’aruf) and strong friendships. Many members of YM can attest that some of their strongest, most wholesome, relationships have been attained through the NeighborNet. Sports, group dinners, and road trips are only a few examples of the activities that have been organized.
The NeighborNet is truly the essence of YM: it is in these weekly meetings that community service and activism is achieved. NeighborNets often work together to organize and execute serve projects at soup kitchens, shelters, and many other places where the general community can benefit from their work.
YM NeighborNets meet each week across YM’s vast network – from California to New Jersey & New York, to Chicago and Houston. We are constantly growing alhamdulillah.
What is a Study Circle?
Those individuals who wish to be more involved in the management and activities of YM are invited to be part of an official Study Circle. It is here where the growth and development of each member is assisted by a qualified mentor. The students of a Study Circle undergo a rigorous program of knowledge and development that prepares them to be leaders of YM and balanced Islamic workers.
The National Tarbiyyah Department of Young Muslims has developed a syllabus of Islamic books – under the guidance of qualified scholars – providing Study Circle members with a balanced, comprehensive foundation of Islamic knowledge. The books unclude subjects of Personal Purificiation (Tazkiyyah), Quranic sciences, Islamic law, Da’awah, Leadership strategy, Seerah, and many more. Along with this syllabus, YM Study Circle members attend seminars providing instructions on special skills including public speaking, writing, graphic design, A/V recording & editing, methods of counseling and many other subjects.
The Study Circle system is categorized into three phases – each of which builds upon previous material. The goal is to provide members with critical foundations of knowledge necessary to lead, propagate Islam, benefit the community, and foster the spirit of brotherhood and unity between Muslims.
Young Muslims is the place to be! How do you know if it’s the perfect place for you?
- If you like playing sports such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, kickball, and more.
- If you like eating
- If you enjoy playing games such as taboo, mafia, hangman, charades, and more
- If you have the drive to learn about topics that are discussed while relating them back to our personal lives (Ex: 7 Shaded under the throne of Allah, Youth of the cave, etc)
Now you know that your friendly neighborhood YM is the PERFECT place for you. Is there something missing at your NeighborNet that you wish was there? Make it happen! We welcome positive change and we hope to better this work with each passing day.