About Us
Seera Association is committed to providing a range of community service programs, such as youth mentorship programs and religious educational services, including Qur’an, Hadith and Seera study groups and interfaith dialogues. Our goal is to foster a strong sense of community and spiritual growth among our members. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Introduction
Seera Association of Baton Rouge, Inc. is a nonprofit organization registered in the state of Louisiana. The organization holds tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code (IRC § 501(c)(3)), allowing it to operate as a charitable entity.
Mission and Services
SEERA offers Islamic services to Baton Rouge and nearby Louisiana communities. Its commitment to serving the religious, educational, and social needs of the community is reflected in the wide range of services offered.
Facilities and Development
To support its mission, SEERA has established both a Community Center and a Mosque. These facilities serve as key locations for community gatherings, religious observances, and educational programs. Additionally, SEERA is in the process of launching an Islamic school in Baton Rouge, further expanding its educational outreach.
Governance
The organization is governed and directed by a Board of Trustees. This board operates as a non-compensated counseling body, ensuring that SEERA remains focused on its mission and adheres to best practices in nonprofit governance.
Compliance and Collaboration
SEERA is a law-abiding organization that works closely with city, county, and state agencies and authorities. This collaboration ensures that the organization consistently complies with all relevant laws and regulations, fostering trust and transparency within the community.
Guiding Principle: Overcoming Evil with Good
The fundamental guideline for conduct in SEERA is to overcome evil with good, as emphasized in the Quran. This principle encourages individuals to respond to negativity or wrongdoing with acts of kindness and positive behavior, fostering an environment of compassion and understanding.
Unity and Brotherhood Among Believers
Believers are described as a single brotherhood. This unity calls for making peace between individuals whenever conflicts or disagreements arise. The importance of reconciliation is highlighted, urging believers to work towards harmony and mutual respect within the community.
Mindfulness and Mercy
It is essential to remain mindful of Allah in all actions. By doing so, individuals hope to be shown mercy. This mindfulness serves as a constant reminder to act with integrity, compassion, and a sense of accountability.
Prophetic Teachings on Love and Empathy
The Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of empathy and care for others by saying, “Love for people what you love for yourself.” He further stated, “None of you will believe until you love for your brother what you love for yourself.” These teachings underscore the necessity of selflessness and genuine concern for the well-being of others as foundational elements of true faith.
Open Participation Policy
SEERA is established as an open religious organization, welcoming all members of the public to attend and participate in its activities. The organization does not require or maintain any form of formal membership, ensuring that attendance and involvement remain accessible to everyone interested.
Exclusion and Right to Refuse Participation
While SEERA is open to the public, the organization reserves the legal right to prevent or exclude individuals or groups from participating. This action may be taken if any person or group exhibits behavior that is inconsistent with SEERA’s established rules and regulations or violates the law of the land.
Financial support
Sources of Funding
The financial resources of the SEERA are derived exclusively from contributions and donations. These sources provide the necessary funding for the organization’s activities and operations.
Restrictions on Donations
SEERA maintains strict guidelines regarding the origin of its financial support. The organization does not accept any donations in any form from either domestic or international governments. Additionally, SEERA refrains from receiving funds or support from any political parties. This policy is designed to ensure the independence and integrity of the organization’s financial structure.
Overview of Seera’s Property Assets
SEERA is the owner of a 2.2-acre parcel of land designated for the construction of a Masjid and community center. In addition to this primary site, SEERA also possesses an adjacent parcel encompassing 3.3 acres, which includes a building with a total area of 7,200 square feet.
Daily and Weekly Activities
SEERA is open 24 hours a day, ensuring that community members have access to the center at all times. The facility provides the five daily prayers, allowing individuals to fulfill their religious obligations in a communal setting. In addition to the daily prayers, SEERA offers evening lectures that aim to educate and inspire attendees. The center also conducts weekend programs designed for children, adults, and families, fostering a sense of unity and continuous learning among all age groups.
Annual Events and Special Programs
Each year, SEERA organizes educational and family conferences that bring together members of the community for enrichment and fellowship. The center also hosts children’s summer camps, offering opportunities for young people to engage in both educational and recreational activities during the summer months.
Additional Services
Beyond regular programming, SEERA provides a variety of essential services to support the well-being of its community. These services include counseling, assistance, advice, and referrals for individuals and families. The center also helps with marriage and funeral arrangements, ensuring that important life events are managed with care and