The Rising Influence of Women in Philanthropy: Spotlight on Muslim Women in America

Women have long been integral to philanthropy in the U.S., playing essential roles as donors, volunteers, and leaders within nonprofit organizations. However, in recent years, their influence has surged to new heights, with women now driving significant philanthropic contributions and shaping the future of the nonprofit sector. Within this context, Muslim women in America are emerging as key players, leveraging their resources, skills, and networks to address social issues and uplift their communities. Their growing presence in philanthropy not only highlights their dedication to giving back but also challenges misconceptions about the role of Muslim women in public life.

Women’s Growing Role in Philanthropy

Historically, women have been active participants in charitable activities, but today, they are recognized as a powerful force in the philanthropic world. According to a 2021 report from the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) at Indiana University, women control 51% of U.S. personal wealth, and they are increasingly using that wealth to fund philanthropic initiatives. The report also found that households led by single women are more likely to give to charity than those led by single men or married couples. This rise in women’s financial power is coupled with a growing awareness of social justice issues, leading women to direct their philanthropic efforts toward causes that promote equity, education, healthcare, and social services.

A significant factor behind the increasing visibility of women in philanthropy is the “gendered approach” to giving. Studies show that women tend to prioritize causes that affect children, families, and marginalized groups. They are also more likely to engage in collaborative and community-focused philanthropy, often seeking to build partnerships and networks that amplify their impact. For Muslim women in the U.S., this approach aligns with both their faith-driven values and cultural traditions that emphasize community care and service.

Muslim Women as Philanthropic Leaders

In the American Muslim community, women are emerging as influential figures in philanthropy, driving efforts that support education, social justice, and healthcare. The rise of Muslim women philanthropists reflects broader trends within American society, where women’s participation in philanthropy is growing across all sectors.

Data from the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) suggests that American Muslims donate more to charity on average than the general public, with 62% of Muslims giving to nonprofit organizations annually. A significant portion of this giving is led by women, many of whom see their charitable work as an extension of their faith, which encourages giving (zakat and sadaqah) and community support. Muslim women are not only giving financially but are also driving fundraising efforts, establishing organizations, and serving as board members and leaders within philanthropic institutions.

For instance, Muslim women have founded and led numerous charitable organizations in the U.S. that address a variety of causes, including refugee support, healthcare access, and education. Raha Foundation, established by Muslim women, focuses on providing resources for underprivileged women and girls globally. Similarly, Penny Appeal USA, whose leadership includes many women, works on poverty alleviation projects domestically and abroad. These organizations exemplify the leadership and commitment of Muslim women in addressing critical social issues.

The Power of Muslim Women’s Giving: Breaking Stereotypes

The increasing role of Muslim women in philanthropy is not just about charitable contributions; it is about breaking stereotypes and redefining the narrative surrounding Muslim women in the public sphere. For years, Muslim women have faced misconceptions that depict them as passive or restricted in their social roles. However, their growing presence in philanthropy challenges these outdated perceptions and highlights their active engagement in shaping their communities and society at large.

Muslim women philanthropists draw inspiration from their faith, which places a strong emphasis on social justice and community care. Islamic teachings encourage both men and women to give generously and support those in need, with the concept of zakat (obligatory almsgiving) and sadaqah (voluntary charity) being central pillars of faith. Muslim women in America, empowered by their faith and their professional success, are stepping up as key donors, advocates, and leaders within philanthropic spaces.

In addition to financial contributions, many Muslim women are involved in time-based philanthropy—volunteering, mentoring, and organizing community events. Their leadership in local mosques, community centers, and nonprofit organizations further showcases their multifaceted approach to giving.

Key Statistics and Contributions

According to the Women’s Philanthropy Institute, women generally give more frequently to charity than men and tend to be more motivated by social justice causes, values that strongly resonate with Muslim women’s philanthropic efforts.
62% of American Muslims give to charity annually, and among them, women play a pivotal role in both financial giving and leadership within charitable organizations, according to the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU).
In 2022, the American Muslim Community Foundation (AMCF) reported that over 60% of donations made to its platforms came from women. These contributions support a wide range of causes, including poverty alleviation, refugee support, and educational initiatives.
Penny Appeal USA, led by a diverse board of Muslim women and men, has raised millions for domestic and international causes, with women leading fundraising campaigns and strategy.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the growing influence of Muslim women in philanthropy, there remain challenges in gaining broader recognition and representation within larger philanthropic institutions. Muslim nonprofits often struggle with visibility and funding from mainstream philanthropic networks, which can limit their capacity for growth. Additionally, while Muslim women are highly active within their communities, they are often underrepresented in national conversations about philanthropy and social impact.

However, the landscape is shifting. Organizations such as the Women’s Philanthropy Institute and the American Muslim Community Foundation are beginning to shine a light on the contributions of Muslim women in philanthropy, offering platforms for their work to be recognized and amplified. As more Muslim women continue to rise as leaders in the nonprofit sector, there is tremendous potential for them to shape the future of philanthropy in America, addressing critical social issues with their unique perspectives and strengths.

Conclusion: A Force for Change

Muslim women in America are not only breaking barriers but are also redefining the role of women in philanthropy. Their contributions, whether through financial donations or hands-on leadership, are reshaping the landscape of American Muslim giving. As they continue to rise as powerful philanthropists, they are helping to build more inclusive, compassionate, and impactful communities. By elevating the voices and efforts of Muslim women in philanthropy, we can begin to recognize the full scope of their influence and celebrate their contributions to a more just and equitable society.

Sources:

Women’s Philanthropy Institute, “Women Give 2021: How Households Make Giving Decisions.”
Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), “American Muslim Poll 2022.”
American Muslim Community Foundation, Annual Report 2022.
Penny Appeal USA, “About Us.”