Who we are
One Hand Foundation
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in State College, Pennsylvania — and the team behind this welcome site.
Our story
Originating from a shared vision, One Hand Foundation aims to transform how communities connect and care for one another. One Hand is a passionate, mission-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in State College, Pennsylvania. Guided by principles of compassion and unity, the foundation seeks to uplift individuals and strengthen communities through impactful community service events. Inspired by teachings of generosity and kindness, the foundation operates with a focus on creating tangible change while fostering connections across the fabric of our community.
onehandfoundation.org
Our values
At One Hand, we build B.R.I.D.G.E.S
Basic needs
Food, essentials, and a soft landing for families who have just arrived.
Resilience
Helping people stand on their own feet, not just get through one hard week.
Inclusion
Everyone is welcome, whatever their background, language, or faith.
Dialogue
Honest conversation across the different communities of Centre County.
Growth
Programs and mentoring that help people build something lasting here.
Engagement
Community service events that bring neighbours together to work side by side.
Sustainability
Building support that keeps going after the first month is over.
What we do
One Hand Foundation runs year-round programming in State College and across Centre County — from food distribution and health clinics to graduation celebrations, interfaith gatherings, and youth workshops. Every event is designed to welcome, support, and connect our community.
Our work is built around a few core pillars: making sure families have enough to eat, connecting people to health and wellness resources, welcoming newcomers, supporting children and seniors, and creating spaces where the wider community can learn about and celebrate with us.
Ask us for help or volunteerFood & basic needs
- Food Hub — monthly Ramadan food box distribution with ISCP, the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, and One Hand.
- Ramadan meal distribution at the Allen Street Gates, sharing hot meals and conversation with passersby.
Health & wellness
- Lion Mobile Clinic — free flu shots and wellness checks at ISCP, no insurance or appointment needed.
- Wellness Body & Mind — health screenings, book giveaways, food distribution, and family activities in partnership with local organizations.
- Kids Mobile Dental Bus — free dental care for children, improving long-term wellness for families.
Welcome & belonging
- Port & Support — welcome event for newly arrived families and students with a trolley tour, lunch, and resource connections.
- Graduation Ceremony — celebrating high school, bachelor's, master's, and PhD graduates in a spiritual atmosphere with family and friends.
Families & youth
- Know Ramadan — storytime and craft workshop for children ages 4–12 at Schlow Library.
- Kid's Farm Visit — hands-on educational farm experience with the Penn State Student Farm.
- Joining Hands — back-to- school event with school supplies, books, and resource tables for Philipsburg- Osceola families.
- Righteous Companionship and Gen-Z: Path of Light — Islamic workshops and courses for teens and young adults.
Seniors
- Spring Social for Seniors — an afternoon of games, live music, and cultural performance for elderly residents.
- Silver & Savvy — a workshop helping older adults use AI safely and confidently in everyday life.
Culture & community
- PSU APIDA Spring Festival — a booth celebrating culture, creativity, and local artisans.
- Ramadan lantern lighting at the Allen Street Gates to raise awareness and welcome the holy month.
For sisters
One Hand Women's Society (OWS)
OWS is the sisters' circle of One Hand Foundation — a women-only space for new arrivals and long-time residents in State College. Sisters organise halaqas and Quran circles, welcome dinners and coffee meetups, help with rides, groceries, and baby needs after a new arrival, and share advice on schools, doctors, and settling in with children.
If you are a sister arriving alone or with your family, the fastest way in is the WhatsApp group. Introduce yourself and ask anything — someone always answers.