About Us

Executive Brief

Founder & Director: Mayadah N. Fseisi
Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Legal Status: 501(c)(3) Public Charity
Focus Area: Humanitarian relief for families in Gaza

Overview

Amal Relief and Renewal Foundation is a Virginia-based nonprofit dedicated to providing direct humanitarian support to families in Gaza with dignity, transparency, and long-term commitment. Founded by a Palestinian American community organizer, Amal was created to formalize and sustain community-led relief efforts that were already underway prior to incorporation.

The foundation’s work is grounded in ethical practice, cultural sensitivity, and accountability — both to donors and to the families it serves.

Background & Rationale

Before establishing Amal, the founder organized and led multiple grassroots fundraising initiatives to support families in Gaza. These efforts included cultural gatherings, community events, and screenings, and supported both individual families and groups of families. All funds raised were directed to families in need.

As the crisis continued and the work expanded, it became clear that a formal nonprofit structure was necessary to ensure responsible stewardship, donor confidence, and long-term sustainability. Amal Relief and Renewal Foundation was established as a thoughtful next step — not to scale rapidly, but to carry the work forward with care, structure, and integrity.

Current Priority: Ramadan Humanitarian Initiative

During Ramadan, Amal’s programming focuses on meeting urgent needs while preserving dignity and choice for families. Current initiatives include:

• Food Assistance & Iftar Support: Providing essential food supplies and meal support for fasting families.
• Zakat Distribution: Direct financial assistance to vulnerable families, including the sick and displaced, allowing recipients flexibility to meet their most pressing needs.
• Eid Support for Children: Providing Eid clothing for children to restore a sense of dignity and normalcy during a time of prolonged hardship.

These initiatives are designed to be responsive, culturally grounded, and guided by on-the-ground realities.

Operating Principles

Amal Relief and Renewal Foundation operates with the following core principles:

• Dignity-first aid: Assistance that respects autonomy and avoids exploitative storytelling.
• Transparency: Clear communication with donors about goals, methods, and use of funds.
• Lean operations: Modest administrative costs to maximize program impact.
• Community-rooted trust: Built through consistency, accountability, and responsible engagement.

Governance & Oversight

The foundation is governed by a Board of Directors. Financial decisions, budget oversight, and internal controls are reviewed and approved at the board level. Amal is committed to maintaining strong governance practices as it grows thoughtfully and responsibly.