Islamic Center of Bothell
Importance:
Muslims living in the West experience many forms of injustice due to misinformation and false representation in the media. Many times, Muslims are portrayed in movies negatively and are viewed as the villains. Having a false understanding of Islam has led to many atrocious and unjust hate crimes towards innocent Muslims. It is important to educate those who have a misunderstanding. Furthermore, Muslims need a safe place to lean on and feel a sense of community.
Brief history and purpose of the organization:
The Islamic Center of Bothell has been serving the Puget Sound community for more than ten years. The Islamic Center was officially opened to the community on August 22nd, 2009. The goals of the Islamic Center of Bothell include educating the community, supporting spiritual growth, and providing a place to practice the religion of Islam with the congregation. Moreover, they encourage the participation of new members and are welcoming to anyone who would like to gain more knowledge of the religion.
Who the organization serves:
ICOB serves the Muslim community living in Bothell and surrounding areas. The Islamic Center also encourages those who want to learn more about Islam or just visit Muslim’s place of worship to join the community as well.
Programs Offered:
One of the organizations that the Islamic Center of Bothell provides is Islam 101. Islam 101 is a program that allows people to learn the basics of Islam. Muslims and non-Muslims are encouraged to take the class to learn the fundamentals and to have the opportunity to ask any questions that they might have. The Islam 101 class takes place for a duration of four weeks every quarter.
From daily congregational prayers to Islamic studies classes for children, ICOB (Islamic Center of Bothell) is committed to accurately spreading the teachings of Islam. ICOB allows Muslims in the area to cultivate their identity as well as increasing their knowledge. ICOB emphasizes the importance of good behavior and respect, which is an obligation in the religion of Islam.
Accessibility of Information on Website:
I believe that the Islamic Center of Bothell’s website is accessible and clearly states the vision and goals of the mosque. However, I believe that updating the events tab and including more details is important. I noticed that not all of their courses and programs are displayed on the website. Going to the Islamic Center in person allows people to learn about more of their programs, but including the information online could allow for much more participation from the community.
How they can Improve:
The website could be improved by adding pictures of the events in order to provide visuals for those who are new to the community. Pictures can go a long way in showing new members what exactly goes on inside the mosque during different events and occasions.
Similar Organization:
Muslim Association of Puget Sound MAPS is another Islamic Center in Redmond that also provides a variety of educational courses as well as being a place of worship. MAPS also provides classes for new Muslims to learn more about how to practice the religion.
