This is perhaps the most heartfelt review one could ever write. My education as well as my entire professional career has been dedicated to interfaith and intercultural dialogue. I believe in this mission entirely. Niagara Foundation's leadership were the first to truly discriminate against me first as a woman and secondly as a non-turk. As someone who spoke the praises of this organization for years and volunteered countless hours, I couldn't have been more deeply hurt by these same people and it has been a journey to find forgiveness in my heart for people living a masquerade on this magnitude. I could spend hours discussing examples that may or may not discouraging people from making future financial contributions. I'll share just one small example.
I had worked for just two weeks and organized my first event with the support and consultation of the previous organizer, then VP "H.B.". At the conclusion of the event "M.H.C", the current President succeeding then President "S.S", called a meeting between us all. Within this 1hr+ meeting he systematically attacked every planning decision that was made. I politely waited for an opportunity to speak but was interrupted. I hadn't even spoken a single syllable and when I opened my mouth "MHC" looked straight at me, interrupted me, and said "I'm not talking to you, I am talking about you. Be quiet". I was completely shut out, and so deeply appalled as woman, I mustered up every ounce of courage to make it to the end of these meeting with some faint shred of dignity. The arguments he made were undignified, disrespectful of the interfaith groups with which the event was organized, and aimed to undermine me as an American woman. In due respect to "HB", he respectfully defended the event against what was, even then, clearly viewed as a nasty attack from someone unwilling to embrace change. I should add I was the first American and the first woman to be hired. I never received an apology. Today this experience has become part of a narrative of transformation and perseverance in my professional life but it doesn't change that MHC is a fraud. I'm disgusted that this, a wolf in sheep's clothing, a power hungry man who leverages a profound and important mission to create a greater personal network, has been put in charge as the President. My post today is a response to the news that he is now running the Niagara Foundation.
I kindly as that one who read this message take their time and their money to other genuine non-profits in the greater-chicano who would truly benefit from your support. Don't turn your back on interfaith, but turn your back on this organization.
Review from Guidestar
To me, Niagara Foundation is a unique platform that brings different cultures and backgrounds of people together to foster dialogue. Through this great opportunity, you can feel how strong we would be as a community to solve our common problems mainly rooted because of ignorance or lack of communication. I believe we will better understand the importance of these type of organizations in the near future, especially in a world with so many clashes.
Niagara Foundation Plays a huge role on bringing people of different cultures and faith traditions around the table and help building sustainable, rewarding friendships. The dedication of staff, volunteers and interns echoes the quality of Niagara's services and events. Recently, they have earned the gold participant rank from the GuideStar that certifies the Niagara's operations in terms of programs, impact, governance and finances. Niagara Foundation is serving this country for a little over 10 years however it already became a shining star of the nonprofit organizations.
The mission of Niagara Foundation is so critical and really serves a lot to the communities with creating platforms and bringing people together from different backgrounds to exchange their ideas with no pressure. We need such organizations!!
Very dedicated people promoting social cohesion! Thank you so much for your great work not only in Chicago but also all around in US and world!
Had a great time and met wonderful people at your Ramadan event yesterday. Very professional, diverse, and welcoming.
One word: WOW! I attended the Ramadan Experience event held at the Fourth Presbyterian Church yesterday. I cannot begin to explain how moved I was with the speakers, especially Mr. Mozaffar who spoke on the stages of Ramadan in a Muslim's life and how that relates to the importance of a Muslim's obligation to his/her surroundings and community. The oud performance following his speech left me in awe. I cannot wait to attend this organization's future interfaith engagements.
My co-worker introduced me to this organization last year. I am so impressed by the caliber of their speakers and members, not to mention the focused work they are doing right here in our city. I'm proud to also mention that I had a chance to attend their 10th Year Anniversary gala, and am a proud member ever since. The gala was a night to remember with great speakers, peace & dialogue awards and great company. Definitely stop by their office if you get a chance; they not only welcome you with a warm smile, but also always serve freshly brewed tea!
Niagara Foundation is a bastion of hope and simply the definition of a "peaceful world." The diversity and depth of their programming and outreach- through their internship program- allows for them to reach so many like-minded, bright youth and dialogue advocates who can potentially change the world for the better.
I love the foundation's Friends in Faith series. Yesterday, I attended a lecture by a Bosnian imam named Senad Agic. I realized how much I didn't know about sufism and the Islamic month of Ramadan. Previously, I had attended a lecture by a rabbi and a cantor--I unfortunately missed a discussion on Buddhism, which I hope can be redone in the future. This organization is my number one stop learning about others' religious practices.
I have had the pleasure of visiting Niagara Foundation when 2016 Senate candidate, Andrea Zopp came to speak at a Chicago & Global Family luncheon series. It was a rewarding experience. Definitely visiting again!
Review from Guidestar
As a former Director at Niagara Foundation, I can affirm that the organization is misrepresenting their financial standing in tax documents, paying unauthorized workers in cash, and providing no benefits for the American employees all while paying Americans drastically less. The President, two full-time VPs, and former Director of Finance, are not managing the financials of the organization in a way that reflects its profound mission. It was a very heart breaking conclusion to reach as an employee. I would unfortunately dissuade anyone interested in making a financial contribution to the organization without reflecting on what unethical practices you would be supporting "behind the scenes".
Review from Guidestar