foundation — Oxford Street Menswear

Our Story

In 1982, our father, Mahmoud Arafat, founded Oxford Street Menswear in Huntsville, Alabama. For decades, the store was more than a business; it was a cornerstone of the community, built on values of hard work, integrity, and personal service. That same spirit of giving back has inspired our family to create a formal foundation.

The Arafat Family Foundation is our way of carrying forward our late brother and son Ahmed Arafat's legacy. With my father's business acumen, my mother's and my sister's passion for education, and my other sister's commitment to child wellness, our mission is to invest in the community that has supported us for over 40 years.

The Arafat Family Philanthropy Committee

Our work is guided by a dedicated committee of family members, each bringing their unique expertise to our mission.

Malik Arafat

Role: Chair

As the driving force behind the foundation, Malik serves as the primary point of contact and guides the strategic direction of our giving initiatives.

Mike Arafat

Role: Business Mentor

With decades of experience founding and running Oxford Street Menswear, his invaluable expertise guides all small business and local growth grant decisions.

Family Members

Roles: Children's Advocacy & Education Leads

With backgrounds in education and the medical field, they lead our efforts to support the well-being of children and students in our community.

Our Philanthropic Partners

The Arafat Family Foundation is proud to partner with these exceptional organizations to make a tangible difference in the Huntsville community.

The Ahmed Arafat Grant

This is the heart of our philanthropy, a direct tribute to Ahmed Arafat of Oxford Street Menswear and lions den sports cards. The Ahmed Arafat Grant is an annual award given to one small business in Huntsville, designed to empower a new generation of entrepreneurs and strengthen our local economy. The grant aims to foster the same values of dedication and community that defined our family's business for over 40 years.

The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship

The Catalyst Center serves as a driver for economic growth and job creation in Huntsville. It provides essential resources, one-on-one coaching, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.

Alabama A&M University Foundation

This partnership supports scholarships, student financial aid, and research at a key institution in the community. By supporting the AAMU Foundation, our family invests directly in the future workforce and leaders of Huntsville.

Free 2 Teach

As a family with deep roots in education, we are proud to support Free 2 Teach, which provides free school supplies to every public school teacher in Madison and Limestone County. This ensures all children have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom.

National Children's Advocacy Center (NCAC)

The NCAC, a globally recognized organization based in Huntsville, provides critical services for child abuse victims. Our support helps ensure children receive the care and protection they need through specialized services.

North Alabama Center for Educational Excellence (NACEE)

NACEE is focused on helping underrepresented students prepare for and complete postsecondary education. By partnering with NACEE, we help to break down barriers and open doors to higher education for deserving students.

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