Day of Dignity held at Douglass Park to help those less fortunate

This is the first year that Islamic Relief USA has put on this event at Douglass Park and event coordinates explain that while it is a day of dignity it’s also a day of celebration for the community it provides.

The Lexington SHARE Center along with Islamic Relief USA collaborated to host a day of service for homeless and impoverished people. The group provided dental and medical screenings, a job fair, winter supplies, hot meals, and much more during the event at Douglas Park, which staff explained was an area perfect to serve.

Ratul Ahmed, city coordinator for Day of Dignity, stated, “We at the SHARE center thought, if bigger cities can do it and serve their communities, why not us. This [west side] is one of the most under served communities here in Lexington and we’re here to let them know that we haven’t forgotten you, we’re here to provide the services that you need.”

Ahmed also spoke about serving those less fortunate is part of what they believe and that it's not just about silent thoughts and prayers, but action.

“There is nothing more demonstrative than that. Being able to provide the basic needs of your fellow brother and sister that doesn’t have the things that you do” ,explained Ratul Ahmed.

During the event, staff members estimated they were able to serve roughly 400-500 homeless and underprivileged people.