CHICAGO – With almost two thirds of Americans saying they never met a Muslim, an American Muslim group is seeking to change this by hosting mosque open houses to show Americans the true nature of their faith.

“Our main purpose is to share the true teachings of Islam, which stands for peace and justice, and do away with the misconceptions,” said GainPeace director Dr. Sabeel Ahmed, FOX 32 News reported on Sunday, March 19.

“We invite our fellow Americans, our neighbors, to meet Muslims.”

Hosting open mosque days, GainPeace, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization, will offer visitors a social atmosphere during which there will be activities for the kids (like face painting), delicious food and a chance to ask Muslims about their beliefs.

Guests will also be offered a translated copy of the holy Qur’an to understand the message of Islam.

They will be also given information about famous American Muslims throughout history.

“We want to convey that Muslims are Americans and that Islam is part of the United States, as old as Judaism and Christianity,” he said.

The last open house day was hosted by the group on Sunday, March 19, at the Islamic Community Center of Illinois (ICCI).

Another event is planned next Saturday, March 25, at the Islamic Circle of North America – New York.

GainPeaceis a nonprofit organization whose main goal is to educate the general public about Islam and to clarify misconceptions they may hold.

The organization was established in 2008 as an outreach project of Islamic Circle of North America.

There are an estimated 1.5 billion Muslims around the world and 8 million in United States. Muslims believe in the “Oneness of God” and “Prophet Muhammad” as the last Messenger from God.

Islamic Circle of North America, parent organization of Gain Peace and Islamic Circle of North America – Kansas City Chapter, is one of the largest, non-profit, independent, and grassroots organization of American Muslims with twenty five chapters and affiliates around the nation.

The organization’s mission is to promote proper understanding of Islam and Muslims.