Penny Appeal
1199. Adeem Younis
Adeem Younis, from Wakefield, is the founder of ‘Penny Appeal’, an Islamic charity which runs development and education projects in over 30 countries.
In the UK, the charity offers a range of services including domestic violence counselling, a fostering and adoption agency and an emergency response unit, which was one of the first responders to the Manchester bombings. Overseas, ‘Penny Appeal’ provides a variety of development programmes and emergency aid efforts including recently the New Zealand Mosque attack and Cyclone Idai. Adeem founded the charity in 2009, and through his stewardship it has grown its annual income to a projected £24m or more. Adeem has established partnerships with leading organisations including the Amir Khan Foundation, DfE and the Jo Cox Foundation. ‘Penny Appeal’ was born following the success of Adeem’s business ‘SingleMuslim.com’, inspiring him to give back to the wider Muslim community. Adeem also ensures the work of Penny Appeal is closely tied to the local community in Wakefield, offering internships and work experience opportunities for local young people. He was winner of Charity Chair of the Year at the Third Sector Excellence Awards 2018.
Adeem was presented with his award at a Downing Street reception to celebrate Eid by the Secretary of State for Communities, James Brokenshire MP (pictured below).
In a personal letter to Adeem, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Through the ‘Penny Appeal’, you have created an innovative way for Muslims to give their Zakaat to a range of causes in over 30 countries worldwide. Your work is contributing vital services to those in need, rebuilding communities affected by disaster and enriching lives.”
Adeem said:
“Penny Appeal started as a big idea in a small office tucked away in Yorkshire. 10 years later we have been honoured to transform over 20 million lives and serve the most vulnerable and in need in 52 countries around the world, including the UK. All of this would not have been possible without the thousands of volunteers who have dedicated their time with us. This award is dedicated to them. They are all points of light, radiating hope and smiles and reminding us just what makes Britain truly great!”