April 4, 2025
Bridgeview, IL — On March 18, 2025, the Galileo Foundation and Zakat Foundation of America signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at addressing some of the most pressing issues threatening humanity today.
The agreement was formalized by John McCaffrey, President of the Galileo Foundation, and Halil Demir, Executive Director of the Zakat Foundation of America. Together, the two organizations will work to combat poverty, violence, environmental threats, and other challenges that jeopardize global peace and stability.
This partnership is particularly significant as it brings together two organizations with distinct religious backgrounds—the Galileo Foundation, which operates within a Christian framework, and the Zakat Foundation of America, rooted in Islamic principles. Despite these differences, both organizations share common goals of peacebuilding, social justice, and community empowerment through a combination of services that seek to uplift vulnerable communities and promote positive, sustainable change. These goals align with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
By pooling their resources, knowledge, and expertise, both foundations are committed to fostering peace and social harmony across various communities worldwide.
John McCaffrey, Chairman of the Galileo Foundation, stated:
“I am delighted to be able to announce a partnership between the Galileo Foundation and the Zakat Foundation of America. Since I met Halil Demir in Rome at the first Galileo ‘Faith and Philanthropy’ Summit in 2022 I have been impressed by the great work that the Zakat Foundation does in ministering to the humanitarian needs of people from every faith around the world. It is truly inspirational to me, and I am sure that our partnership going forward will be an exemplar of interfaith collaboration in the service of those who are most in need in our society. We look forward to working together with the Zakat Foundation to create a better world for all.”
Halil Demir, Executive Director of the Zakat Foundation of America, added:
"This partnership will amplify our collective efforts to serve those in need. Through this MOU, we aim to not only alleviate suffering but also promote peace and social justice by fostering cooperation and understanding among communities, giving them comfort and guidance they need. The strength of our joint efforts will empower individuals and communities to build a brighter future."
About the Galileo Foundation: The Galileo Foundation is dedicated to promoting peace, education, and social justice worldwide. With a focus on addressing the root causes of poverty and conflict, the foundation works through strategic partnerships, humanitarian aid, and advocacy to support vulnerable communities and foster a more equitable world. Their initiatives prioritize long-term solutions to systemic issues affecting humanity.
About the Zakat Foundation of America: The Zakat Foundation of America is a prominent 501(c)3 humanitarian organization committed to addressing poverty, injustice, and humanitarian crises. With a focus on the principles of Zakat (charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary giving), the foundation works globally to provide relief to marginalized communities, promote sustainable development, and create opportunities for those in need. Through its programs, Zakat Foundation of America aims to build a more just, compassionate, and inclusive world.
This historic collaboration between the Galileo Foundation and the Zakat Foundation of America marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in addressing the world’s most urgent challenges through collective action and shared commitment.
For further information, interview requests or media inquiries, please contact: [email protected] or call 1-888-ZAKAT-US.
