Audai Shakour Foundation
The Audai Shakour Foundation (Audai.org) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to
enhancing the lives of people living in impoverished conditions. Audai was a young man
who was committed to helping those in need, and we are continuing his legacy by
supporting the causes he was passionate about–helping one person,
one community at a time.
About Audai
A week after Audai passed away, I (Audai’s father) woke up remembering an incident in 1991 when Audai was six. We were taking a family walk on a Saturday afternoon to pick up a few books when I noticed Audai was missing. I looked back and saw him talking to a homeless man a few yards behind us. He ran back and asked for some money, “Dad, the man over there is hungry, and the money can help buy his lunch.” From his childhood to his last breath, Audai lived by that example, always wanting to make someone happy.
A few days later, I went to his bank to report his death. When I pulled out his wallet to get his bank card, I found a small card with a prayer for generosity from St. Ignatius Loyola. At that moment, I knew he wanted us to continue the charitable work he was so passionate about. He always said, “Life is better when you are happy, but life is best when others are happy because of you.”
At 36, Audai passed away in a tragic accident at the prime of his life. He was a great loss to family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who knew him. He was passionate about life and kept a healthy lifestyle through running and local sports teams. Audai was an empathetic leader who cared for those in need and was a true humanitarian, making an impact in communities near and far. From covering expenses for a medical student in Sri Lanka, building a home for a single mother, providing weekly meals to homeless individuals in LA, to supporting meals for orphaned children in Sudan, Audai gave all he could in hopes of a better world.
Audai grew up in Mountain View, California. After graduating from high school, he attended George Washington University. He received a Bachelor of Science in International Economics, then a Master of Arts in Communication, Culture, and Technology at Georgetown University. He was an avid leader, serving as president of both his high school and college student body. A few weeks before his passing, he began his political career on the neighborhood city council, seeking to play a significant role in eradicating homelessness in Los Angeles. Audai loved to read, knew his way around words, and was a skilled storyteller who would light up any room he entered. At 6 feet 7, Audai was a kind giant who made people feel that anything in life was possible if you believed in yourself.
Programs We Support
Clean Water
Provide clean water and irrigation for agriculture to impoverished communities and those affected by the dry climate.
Improve Social Well-Being
Provide and promote social welfare programs in disadvantaged communities, including, but not limited to, access to free health care, food, clothes, educational services, home development and animal well-being.
In Kind Donation
In lieu of a monetary donation, we accept in-kind donations to continue ASCF’s mission at the local and international levels.
Making a Difference, Together
In honor of Audai, we continue to create positive change. Here are some of our recent projects.
Renovating a Mental Health Hospital in Sri Lanka
In memory of Audai’s 4th year anniversary, we renovated a 28-bed mental hospital at the National Institute of Mental Health in Mulariyava, Sri Lanka. We also donated mosquito nets, a washing machine, and a secure cupboard for medicine.
A Day of Joy for an Autistic Orphanage
On Audai’s birthday, we provided a special day for 40 children at an autistic orphanage in Sri Lanka. We organized a trip to the zoo and the beach, complete with lunch, music, snacks, and ice cream for children who have never had such an experience.
Wellness Retreat for the Blind
We hosted a day retreat for 100 blind individuals, focusing on stress relief, mindfulness, and meditation. The event included food and lodging, providing a space for relaxation and growth for a community often marginalized in Sri Lanka.
Supporting the Sudanese Community in California
We are proud to have supported the Sudanese Association of Northern California in their efforts toward community advancement and advocacy, continuing our commitment to helping communities both near and far.
Meet the People Behind Audai
Our dedicated team is passionate about making a difference and driving our mission forward.
Isam Shakour
Executive Director
Lamar Thorpe
Board Director
Sarah Shakour
Board Director
Eddie Bernal
Board Director
A Safe Home, A Brighter Future
Audai Shakour Foundation Supports a Single Mother
The Audai Shakour Foundation is honored to help build a safe, stable home for a single mother and her family. A home is more than walls and a roof—it is a place of security, dignity, comfort, and hope for the future. Through the generosity of our supporters, this project will give a hardworking mother the opportunity to raise her children in a healthier and more secure environment, creating a foundation for education, wellbeing, and new possibilities.
Celebrating Champions: Supporting Young Athletes at the Orphanage
The Audai Shakour Foundation proudly provided volleyball uniforms and shoes to the winning volleyball team at an orphanage. This gift recognizes the children’s hard work, teamwork, discipline, and determination. We hope these uniforms and shoes will inspire them to continue pursuing their goals with confidence—both on the volleyball court and in life.
A Message From the First Recipient of the Audai Shakour Memorial Scholarship at George Washington University
We are deeply honored to share a heartfelt message from the first recipient of the Audai Shakour Memorial Scholarship at George Washington University. This scholarship carries forward Audai’s legacy by supporting students as they pursue their education, goals, and future contributions to their communities.
Get in Touch
Have questions or want to get involved? Send us a message
and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.