ILMAUSA and ILMAUSA's Foundation Mission is to support healthcare entities and patients both in Lebanon and the USA through strategic investments in medical education and research.
ILMAUSA Foundation: Our Story and Mission
Background
The ILMAUSA Foundation was established in early 2021 through the dedicated efforts of the ILMAUSA community, creating a charitable and educational platform aimed at making a meaningful impact. Guided by a committed board of nine ILMAUSA members and five esteemed volunteers from the broader community, the Foundation strives to fulfill its mission of support and collaboration.
Our Mission
The mission of the ILMAUSA Foundation is to support healthcare initiatives and educational programs benefiting both American Lebanese communities and those in Lebanon. By assisting healthcare entities and patients in urgent need, we aim to enhance access to medical care and foster a spirit of collaboration between the United States and Lebanon.
Education: Supporting Lebanese Medical Students.
The ILMAUSA Foundation is dedicated to empowering Lebanese medical students through various initiatives:
ILMA-USA Scholarship Program: Launched at the Beirut Conference, this program has allocated $275,000 in scholarships for students to study and conduct research in the U.S. Seven research fellows have been granted one-year positions through the ILMA-KU Research Fellow Program 2024, established by the ILMA USA Kansas Chapter in partnership with the University of Kansas School of Medicine and generous donors from the Lebanese community.
ILMA-USA DMV Chapter Awards Excellence Scholarships: The ILMA-USA DMV Chapter awarded excellence scholarships to 22 outstanding Lebanese medical students from various universities across Lebanon.
We also actively support the ILMA USA Academic Committee and the ILMAUSA Mentorship Committee to enhance educational experiences for medical students.
Educational Events and Networking:
Chapter-Led Fundraising for Education and Healthcare Support: ILMAUSA chapters across the United States, such as Kansas, DMV, Florida, New York, New Jersey, and others, organize annual fundraising events to support vital initiatives. These efforts are dedicated to providing scholarships for students in Lebanon and funding essential medications for clinics in need. Through community-driven events like charity dinners, each chapter plays a crucial role in advancing education and healthcare, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing financial and medical hardships.
Upcoming Educational and Fundraising Event: We are starting to plan a significant upcoming event in Las Vegas, featuring CME conferences and networking opportunities. This event will also serve as a fundraiser to establish a lifetime research position at the University of Kansas, reinforcing our commitment to advancing medical education and research for Lebanese students.
ILMAUSA’s Response to Lebanon’s Crisis
In response to the ongoing healthcare crises in Lebanon, the ILMAUSA Foundation has mobilized resources and formed partnerships to provide critical aid:
Support for the Lebanese Red Cross: We encourage donations to the Lebanese Red Cross, which is delivering essential medical and emergency relief services. Your contributions can help provide immediate aid to those in need. Donations can be made directly through this link.
Medical Supplies and Medication: In collaboration with Lebanon’s Minister of Health, Dr. Firas Abiad, we are addressing the urgent medical needs identified by the Ministry. Our efforts focus on:
Expanding healthcare capacity to accommodate more patients.
Ensuring transparency in the distribution of medical supplies, with all donations processed free of customs fees.
We encourage you to support our emergency fund to help those in need by donating Here.
Logistical Support: Middle East Airlines (MEA) generously transports donations free of charge, ensuring critical supplies reach their destination efficiently.
Critical Teams for Lebanon’s Crisis Response: We have established three key teams to support Lebanon. The Resource Team manages medication and supply requests, ensuring essential resources are distributed effectively. The Human Resources Team offers telehealth services, providing remote medical assistance to those in need. Lastly, the Educational Committee focuses on training healthcare providers, helping to enhance their crisis response capabilities.
Upcoming Collaboration with Primary Healthcare Centers in Lebanon will be announced soon.
Collaboration with LebNet and LIFE Lebanon: ILMAUSA is collaborating with LIFE, Lebnet, and supporting organizations and NGOs to leverage the global Lebanese diaspora’s resources for impactful support in response to the current crisis in Lebanon.
LebNet A nonprofit organization, empowering Lebanese tech professionals, particularly women, through innovation and leadership programs.
Life Lebanon A nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the well-being of the Lebanese community through healthcare, education, and social development initiatives.
Support Us:
We invite you to contribute to the ILMAUSA Foundation’s mission. Your donations play a vital role in our efforts to provide healthcare and educational support.
Follow us on social media to stay updated on ILMA’s activities, including educational programs, support for clinical work in Lebanon, and upcoming ILMAUSA Foundation events and networking opportunities.