ADF History

On August 17, 1989, a visionary and dedicated group of American Druze established the American Druze Foundation. They saw what was not; they dreamt of what could be. Their actions have born fruit ever since, culminating 24 years later with a crowning achievement for the American Druze in the United States of America, the establishment of and endowed fellowship for Druze Studies at Georgetown University in Washington D.C.

These dedicated visionaries’ goal was clear: preserve, promote, and encourage hunger and thirst for a greater understanding and appreciation of the Druze values and traditions. Their eyes and their focus were toward the future “American Druze youth” as well as other adult members of the American Druze community.

The founding members were patriots of this great country America; they, their fathers or grandfathers had traveled across waters in search of a new life. They had a dream of a meaningful existence; not one lived for just themselves but one that would be alive for their children, grandchildren, and the American Druze community at large.

Jack Hamady, Muneer Zaineldden, and James Sams were the founding members who registered the foundation. They served as its first three Board of Directors until the first Board of Directors was established.