SAN PABLO – As Muslims worldwide anticipate the holy fasting month of Ramadan, the Muslim Student Association at Contra Costa College in San Pablo, California, organized on Thursday, May 3, a ‘Fast-a-Thon’ event to emphasize on the need to tackle world hunger and food insecurities.

“Proceeds will be donated to Islamic Relief USA, an organization providing food and resources for low-income communities and homeless shelter charities in Syria,” Rayah Alammari, the President of the association told CCC Advocate.

In line with the mission statement of creating a sense of community between Muslim and non-Muslim students, a traditional dinner from Muslim Mediterranean countries was served, along with a raffle and a presentation by guest speaker Imam Hamzah Mehter.

A member of the association, Mohamad Alammari expressed that, “This year was a good turnout. When it’s time to celebrate Ramadan it’s important for us to realize how much we have and to be grateful for it.”

Another association member, Noor Ayyad, said: “It’s all about having a dialog and teaching new things to those who are interested.”

“One of my favorite parts about this event is being able to communicate with younger people and teach them about Ramadan,” Ayyad said.

Thursday was chosen for this fasting event since fasting weekly on both days Monday and Thursday is a prophetic Sunnah.

The students’ event started by breaking the fast with dates, then guests began with food provided by Q’s Halal in Richmond.

The speaker Imam Mehter has been a leader at American mosques for the past four years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Middle Eastern studies and Islamic studies.

The imam, who is the youngest Islamic prayer leader at the San Pablo mosque, told guests about the physical and mental health benefits of fasting and gaining a sense of empathy for the less fortunate.

He also talked about the spirituality of fasting. “What we eat correlates to our spiritual state and our constant awareness of God.”

According to Pew Research Center’s report of 2015, Muslims made about 1% of the population of California.

Ramadan is the holiest month in Islamic calendar. It is expected to start this year on Wednesday, May 16.

In Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset.

Muslims dedicate their time during the holy month to become closer to Allah through prayer, self-restraint, and good deeds.