History:

Iqub 100 Club is a private Club. Admission to the Club is limited and governed by strict by laws. It was established in the greater Philadelphia area by Ethiopian immigrants who share common ideals. The club was founded in the classic Ethiopian tradition of Iqub where cash strapped individuals get together and help one another by collecting monthly proceeds from each member, and each month, the group will let a lucky member whose name is picked from a “draw of a hat” to receive the monthly proceeds.

The challenge the immigrants faced was not constricted to finance, they were numerous and varied, in scope and depth. To help face these seemingly insurmountable challenges such as unemployment, housing, language barrier and cultural shocks in their adopted country, they needed the company of each other. The Iqub provided a platform for members to share ideas, lend money to each other, share their happiness and grievances and help each other in many ways such as sharing information about job opportunities, job training, education and healthcare. In essence, the Iqub provided members a sort of a social safety net.

The Iqub was founded in 1983. As time went on new members joined. Over the years the Iqub flourished. Iqub meets once a month in the home of a member who hosts a modest party whereby members gather for about one hour to have a formal discussion on certain agenda items and then members move on to the highlight of the event, “The Party”. The party is a cherished moment by members and their families, where they dance to Ethiopian and American grooves, mingle and relax.

Mission Statement:

The mission of Iqub 100 Club is to capitalize on the collaborative platform that has existed for decades between members of the Club, and foster the tradition of cooperation, sharing of ideas, civic responsibility and provide guidance to the next generation of Ethiopian Americans.

Goal:

The goal of Iqub 100 Club is:

• To ensure the continuation of cooperation between members;
• Foster goal oriented life;
• Teach leadership skills through direct participation in various activities;
• Provide mentoring through cooperation with accomplished professionals within and outside Iqub 100 Club; and
• Enrich our Ethiopian American culture through sports activities and community service – teach the value of volunteerism – encourage positive participation in the development of individuals and the Ethiopian American community as a whole.