Roots & Belonging — New Convert Program Open to Myrtle Beach area Volunteer-led

New Convert Program

Whether you accepted Islam yesterday, years ago, or you’re returning after time away, this program offers structured mentorship, foundational learning, and real community integration — with dignity, privacy, and care.

12
Support Path
Months
24
Core Course
Weeks
90
Weekly Session
Minutes
New here? Start small. Ask questions. Build consistency. We focus on what’s essential and practical — not pressure, and not perfection.

🌿 What you’ll receive

A year-long support pathway that helps you move from “new” to “confident and connected.” This program is open to anyone in the Myrtle Beach area — including returning Muslims who want a fresh start.

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Personal mentor

Same-gender mentor for weekly check-ins, encouragement, and practical guidance.

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Prayer help & worship routines

Hands-on support with wudu and salah, plus habit-building that fits real life.

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Foundations course (24 weeks)

Weekly sessions covering Aqeedah, worship, daily life, character, and resilience.

Community connection

Light social time built into sessions so relationships form naturally and safely.

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Support with family/work

Guidance for navigating family dynamics, workplace realities, and common questions.

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Integration & growth

Volunteer pathways, confidence-building, and a simple graduation milestone.

📘 Program phases

Each phase has a clear purpose, clear next steps, and gentle accountability. The program is flexible — but never vague.

1

Phase 1 — Welcome & Stability (0–30 days)

Onboarding, mentor match, prayer basics, and immediate support.

✅ What happens
  • Friendly intake + next steps within 48 hours.
  • Same-gender mentor assigned and first check-in scheduled.
  • Welcome orientation at the masjid (how things work).
  • Wudu + salah basics coaching (practical, step-by-step).
🎯 Goals by day 30
  • Comfort attending Jummah and community spaces.
  • Basic salah routine started (even if imperfect).
  • Knows who to contact for help, questions, and support.
  • Feels seen, welcomed, and not alone.
Welcome kit Mentor match Prayer starter plan First Jummah support Masjid orientation
2

Phase 2 — Foundations Track (Months 1–6)

Weekly structured learning + Q&A + community connection.

📚 Weekly format (90 minutes)
  • 60 min lesson (clear, practical, no overwhelm).
  • 20 min open Q&A (safe space for real questions).
  • 10 min social time (tea/snacks, conversation).
🧭 Core modules (overview)
  • Foundations of faith (Aqeedah basics).
  • Worship essentials (wudu, salah, dhikr, du’a).
  • Living Islam (family, work, halal basics).
  • Character & resilience (habits, patience, growth).
24-week course Prayer workshops Mentor check-ins Resource handouts Small-group support
3

Phase 3 — Integration & Growth (Months 6–12)

Belonging through service, friendship, and confidence.

🤝 Integration pathways
  • Choose a volunteer role that fits your comfort level.
  • Attend community events with mentor support if needed.
  • Optional: join a reading circle or study group.
  • Optional: public speaking / shahada story (only if desired).
🏁 Graduation milestone
  • Simple completion recognition and dinner.
  • Mentor appreciation.
  • Invitation to serve future cohorts (optional).
  • Clear next step: continued learning track at GSIS.
Volunteer placement Community events Optional leadership Graduation dinner Next-track guidance

❓ Frequently asked questions

Is this only for people who took shahada at GSIS?
No — it’s open to anyone in the Myrtle Beach area who needs structured support, including returning Muslims.
What if I feel overwhelmed or behind?
That’s normal. We build consistency slowly and focus on essentials. Your mentor helps you stay steady without guilt.
How private is this program?
We take privacy seriously. Mentors follow confidentiality guidelines, and you control what you share.
What does a mentor do exactly?
Mentors provide practical support and companionship: check-ins, encouragement, help with basics, and guidance to connect into the masjid community.