Photo: Mike Virgintino

Chapter Chief Executive Officer Theresa A. Bischoff and the director of the Islamic Circle of North America Relief USA (ICNA), Ayub Badat, signed a memorandum of understanding at the Chapter on May 30 to establish a partnership that will help the Red Cross strengthen its already comprehensive local emergency response and assistance services for people affected by emergencies.

ARC/GNY worked closely with ICNA to provide assistance for the families affected by the tragic Bronx fire last March that claimed the lives of one adult and nine children. Under this new collaboration, the Islamic Circle becomes a participating partner of ARC/GNY's Ready When the Time Comes program, which trains volunteer teams from local companies and organizations in disaster relief services.

Red Cross trained ICNA members already are engaged with the greater Islamic community in New York City and will help the Red Cross train many others to assist during emergencies.