The Love for Lebanon fundraiser took place on Saturday, June 20, in Chicago with two goals: to bring the Lebanese community together in person and raise critical funds for families affected by the humanitarian crisis. The event was designed to celebrate Lebanese culture through live performances by a local Arab comedian, singer, and dabke group, while creating opportunities for small businesses and local vendors to showcase their art, coffee, and merchandise in a community bazaar. The response exceeded every expectation. More than 100 attendees filled the venue, and in partnership with UNICEF, the sold-out event raised over $20,000, surpassing our fundraising goal and demonstrating the power of a community coming together around a shared purpose.

What inspired you to organize this fundraiser for Lebanon, and why was supporting Lebanon important to you personally?

Like many in the Arab American community, I was raised by proud Lebanese parents who instilled in me a sense of responsibility to support our home. Watching the devastating impact of the war was heartbreaking, and I knew I wanted to do something meaningful to help. I have always found purpose in community-driven and nonprofit initiatives, so organizing this fundraiser felt like a natural way to turn that desire into action. I also felt Chicago was missing a space where our community could come together in solidarity, not only to raise critical funds, but to celebrate our heritage, strengthen our connections, and proudly show what it means to be Lebanese.

The event raised $20,000 and sold out. What do you think made the community respond so strongly? What does that say about the Lebanese diaspora in Chicago?

The response reflected something much bigger than the fundraiser itself. During my first year living in Chicago, I noticed there weren't many opportunities for the Lebanese community to come together. People were looking for a space to reconnect with their culture, meet one another, and unite around this shared cause. When I created that opportunity, the community showed up in an incredible way. Selling out the event and raising $20,000 wasn't the result of one person's effort, it was the result of a community that was eager to give back. It showed me that while the Lebanese diaspora in Chicago may be small, it's deeply connected, generous, and ready to support one another when given the opportunity.

For other young professionals who may feel they cannot make a difference, what message would you share with them?

Don't wait for permission to take action! If you see a gap, take the first step, others will often join once you begin.

When I began planning this fundraiser, resources were limited, and with Chicago's small Lebanese community, selling tickets felt like an uphill battle. Instead of focusing on what we lacked, I focused on what we could build. I realized that our greatest strength wasn't the size of our community, it was our ability to bring people together. We reached beyond our own network, inviting friends, neighbors, local businesses, and allies to support the cause. By creating a welcoming event filled with live performances, delicious food, and local vendors, we gave people an opportunity to celebrate Lebanese culture and contribute to the cause in a way that felt meaningful and personal.

This experience taught me that making an impact isn't about having unlimited resources or the perfect circumstances. It's about identifying a need, taking the risk, and trusting that others will join you along the way. If you’re thinking about starting an initiative of your own, I encourage you to take that first step! You may be surprised at how many people are eager for an opportunity to support.

Click on the photo below to see the photo album!