Project Overview: This project involves joining the community research team at Rihlah Institute to support its mission of providing educational resources and fostering personal development through Islamic studies. The student will contribute to key initiatives, including grant writing, community building, and future planning, to help the institute expand its reach and impact.

Objectives:

Grant Writing:

• Research and Identification: Identify potential grant opportunities that align with Rihlah Institute’s mission and objectives.
• Proposal Development: Assist in drafting compelling grant proposals that clearly outline the institute’s programs, goals, and the impact of potential funding.
• Funding Strategy: Develop a strategic approach for securing grants, including timelines, deadlines, and requirements.

Community Building:

• Engagement Strategies: Research and develop strategies to strengthen the institute’s community, both online and offline. This includes organizing events, workshops, and discussion forums.
• Volunteer and Ambassador Programs: Create or enhance programs that encourage community members to take active roles in supporting the institute’s initiatives.
• Feedback and Outreach: Conduct surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather feedback from the community and identify areas for improvement.

Future Planning:

• Strategic Visioning: Contribute to the development of long-term strategic plans for the institute, focusing on sustainable growth and community impact.
• Program Development: Research and propose new programs or initiatives that align with the institute’s goals and meet the needs of the community.
• Impact Assessment: Assist in developing methods for assessing the impact of current and future programs, ensuring alignment with the institute’s mission.

Skills Required:

• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, particularly in grant writing.
• Experience or interest in community engagement and development.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Knowledge of Islamic studies or cultural sensitivity is a plus.

Supervision: The student will work closely with the community research team and will be mentored by a project supervisor who will provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the project. Regular meetings will be held to review progress and discuss next steps.

Expected Outcomes:

• A portfolio of researched and drafted grant proposals ready for submission.
• A set of strategies and initiatives to enhance community engagement and participation.
• A long-term strategic plan with recommendations for new programs and future directions.
• Increased awareness and support for Rihlah Institute within the community.

Final Deliverables: Students will be required to submit either a grant proposal or a draft, along with a reflection of their experience.

The student will work closely with the community research team and will be mentored by a project supervisor who will provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the project. Regular meetings will be held to review progress and discuss next steps.