The Islamic Center of America has been serving the needs of area Muslims since 1963. The center traces its roots back to 1949, when its founder, Imam Mohamad Jawad Chirri, first traveled to the United States at the request of the then small Muslim community in the Detroit area. Formerly located in Highland Park, Mich., the Islamic Center opened the doors at its current location in 2005. The center's mission is not only to preserve and teach the religion of Islam, but also to educate the American public about Islam and the Arab culture. The symbolism and design of the Islamic Center are examples of Islamic-inspired architecture. The 70,000-square-foot facility houses the main prayer room, a full-service banquet hall, offices and the adjacent school building for the Muslim American Youth Academy (MAYA). The center offers tours for groups and individuals.
The Neighborhood Club is a nonprofit community organization offering a variety of activities for individuals and families of all ages. Sports activities, games, classes and swimming are offered, as are pre-school programs. With a wide and ever-changing curriculum, there's something for every interest. Money is generated through the club's gift shop and through donations from community members.
Stay & Play Social Club provides interactive and fun social activities for young professionals. It offers social events and sports leagues with many different indoor and outdoor locations and activities. Social events include happy hours, travel opportunities. and social outings throughout the year. Visit the website to find out more.
Creatopia Pottery is a craft center where people can paint and glaze basic pottery. Hand-building classes for adults, where customers make the pottery from scratch, are available, and there are also courses for children. Private parties are available by appointment and are typically hosted after store hours.
The Older Persons' Commission, known to locals as the OPC, offers programs and services for senior citizens in Rochester, Rochester Hills and Oakland Township. Membership is free for residents, though there is a $6 cost for a membership card and there is a charge for some events. The center features a track, gymnasium, pool, library, cafeteria, woodshop and auditorium. On-site classes include aerobics and yoga, art explorations and language courses. Various support groups meet daily, and entertainment events are planned often.