Introduction to the: Muslim American Youth Foundation (MAYF)
The Muslim American Youth Foundation (MAYF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in King County, and dedicated to empowering and uplifting Muslim-American youth and their communities. Founded by community leaders and activists with over 20 years of experience, MAYF was established in response to the unique challenges facing Muslim-American youth today.
Our mission is to educate, enrich, and enlighten young Muslim-Americans with the tools they need to thrive—in their communities and within the broadere American society. Through faith-based guidance, educational and sports programs, leadership development, and community engagement, we strive to cultivate confident, active, and empowered individuals who contribute positively to their communities and beyond.
Recognizing the urgent need for specialized programs, MAYF launched targeted outreach initiatives to support Muslim-American youth in Washington State. Our efforts revealed a troubling reality: many among the Muslim-American youth are struggling with their identity, faith, and personal development, making them vulnerable to challenges such as drug use, crime, academic struggles, and social pressures.
To address these issues, MAYF is committed to fostering personal growth, access to education and support resources, and providing holistic support. Our programs focus on education, sports and athletics, youth mentoring, outreach and advocacy initiatives, community services, seminars, and field trips, ensuring that every young person has the guidance, resources, and encouragement to navigate modern challenges while staying connected to their faith and culture.
Mission + Vision
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to educate and instil a drive for personal academic success, enrich through experience and expansion of what is really possible, and enlighten by means of taking the aforementioned experiences and incorporating them into their personal lives, households and communities.
Vision Statement:
Our vision is to foster lasting social change by developing multi-purpose institutions, facilities, and programs that empower Muslim-American youth to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually — enabling them to lead, inspire, and uplift their communities.
Youth Issues
LACK OF SUPPORT:
Today’s youth face complex and growing challenges—but what worsens the situation is the severe lack of dedicated support systems. Too few agencies, organizations, and institutions are equipped or focused on addressing the unique needs of Muslim youth. Many young people find themselves isolated, with nowhere to turn and no one to guide them through personal, social, or spiritual difficulties. This gap in services deepens existing struggles and leaves many without the resources or mentorship they urgently need. At MAYF, we are committed to filling that gap through holistic, culturally responsive programs that provide support, guidance, and hope.
DOMESTIC ISSUES:
Many families in our community face growing tensions at home, often rooted in communication gaps, cultural misunderstandings, and lack of effective parenting tools. Parents may struggle to guide their children due to language barriers or unfamiliarity with the social realities their youth face. This disconnect can lead to conflict, emotional strain, and in some cases, domestic violence. MAYF addresses these issues through culturally and linguistically responsive family support programs, workshops, and youth mentoring that strengthen communication, promote mutual understanding, and foster healthier home environments.
VIOLENCE:
Youth violence continues to be a critical issue in King County, with over 130 firearm-related incidents annually—including multiple fatalities among minors. While demographic and religious data is often unreported, within the Muslim-American community alone, we have tragically lost three or more youth per year since 2015 to gun violence. In addition to violence, many Muslim-American youth are exposed to drugs, trafficking, and criminal activity, underscoring the urgent need for targeted prevention. MAYF’s programs are designed to address these realities through mentorship, education, community safety initiatives, and collaboration with local partners to provide youth with positive alternatives and protective pathways.
PEER PRESSURE AND DRUG USAGE:
Muslim-American youth are increasingly exposed to peer pressure and societal norms that normalize harmful and illicit behavior. Without consistent access to faith-based environments and positive role models, many are drawn toward drug use and risky lifestyles. The influence of peers, coupled with a lack of culturally relevant support systems, leaves young people vulnerable. At MAYF, we recognize the urgency of this challenge. Through targeted programs in mentorship, education, and counseling, we aim to strengthen identity, build resilience, and provide youth with the tools and support they need to resist harmful influences and thrive.
“The Muslim American Youth Foundation exists solely for the betterment of our youth. We are committed to youth excellence.”
— Dr. Shaykh Yahya Suufi
Executive Director and Resident Scholar of the Muslim American Youth Foundation