Thaddeus & Baheejah Shakoor

Thaddeus Shakoor was born in 1942 and graduated from Detroit public schools before earning an associate degree from Oakland Community College. In 1968, Baheejah and Thaddeus were united in marriage - beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in faith, family, and community. Together, they have raised five children, and their family has grown to include eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.Baheejah dedicated her professional life to nursing, serving compassionately as a registered nurse at North Detroit General Hospital until her retirement in 2012. Thaddeus began his career at General Motors in 1969, where he worked diligently until his retirement in 2000.Beyond their professional achievements, the Shakoors have been unwavering pillars of Detroit's Islamic and broader community life. In 1984, Thaddeus founded an Islamic Boy Scout troop, nurturing leadership and faith among young men. Between 1993 and 1995, he and Baheejah co-founded the Greater Detroit Islamic Alliance, strengthening unity among local Muslim organizations. Together, they also helped establish the Amani Awards Program and the Peace in the Hood Initiative, both designed to uplift and empower Detroit youth.Their commitment continued through the Neighborly Needs Organization, where Thaddeus became CEO in 2009, and both remain active members to this day. The couple also co-founded the | Can Organization and Dream of Detroit, continuing to champion faith-driven community development.
Baheejah and Thaddeus Shakoor are proud, longtime members of the Muslim Center of Detroit and supporters of the Al-Ikhlas Training Academy. Their steadfast dedication, compassion, and leadership have inspired countless individuals and families.
Together, the Shakoors embody a legacy of love, service, and devotion — a testament to the power of faith and the impact of a life lived for others. 

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