Chestnut Retreat Center is a 501(c)(3) religious nonprofit organization dedicated to worship, intellectual and spiritual growth, community engagement, and service to others.

Rooted in the Islamic tradition and guided by the values of the Hizmet Movement—a faith-inspired civic movement that emphasizes education, dialogue, and humanitarian relief—CRC provides a welcoming environment where people can gather, reflect, and work together for the common good.

CRC’s religious retreat life is centered on worship, study, and reflection, shaped by a daily rhythm of congregational prayer and learning that has continued on these grounds for more than twenty-five years.  This aspect sits alongside CRC’s community programs—cultural gatherings, educational and youth initiatives, interfaith engagement, and service to those in need.

Our mission is rooted in four commitments:

• Worship & Spiritual Life — providing our guests with a peaceful setting for daily prayer and spiritual reflection

• Education — offering opportunities for religious and intellectual growth through study and conversation

• Building Relationships — bringing neighbors of diverse faiths and cultures together in an atmosphere of respect, sincerity, and neighborliness

• Community Service — supporting those in need through partnerships and volunteer work, guided by compassion, responsibility, and a commitment to the common good

CRC envisions a society where every person is respected for who they are and able to live in peace with themselves and with others.

The prayer hall is the spiritual heart of CRC. Five daily prayers, Friday (Jumuah) prayer, Tarawih, and Eid prayers are held here, all performed in congregation. Before sunset, the community also gathers in this space for the evening dua circle—a quiet moment of collective remembrance and reflection.

Over the years, this hall has also served as a place of learning, conversation, and shared reflection, shaping the spiritual rhythm of daily life at CRC. Many visitors remember the atmosphere of the hall—calm, reverent, and inviting—as part of the center’s distinct character.

The prayer hall’s design reflects elements of Turkish-Islamic architecture, crafted with thoughtful aesthetic detail. Its domes, calligraphy, and ornamentation were created by artisans inspired by classical Ottoman motifs, giving the space a sense of serenity and beauty that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Conference hall is a spacious, well-equipped space used for lectures, seminars, workshops, and community events. With seating for approximately 100 participants, the hall provides a comfortable setting for larger programs while maintaining a calm, focused atmosphere. The room includes standard audio–visual equipment and is used throughout the year for educational gatherings, conferences, and guest speaker sessions.

It is a flexible gathering space used for community dinners, workshops, and small- to mid-sized events. The room can be arranged in a variety of layouts—conference style for group discussions and trainings, or round-table seating for meals such as our Early Thanksgiving Dinner and Ramadan gatherings. With adjustable lighting and ample space, the hall supports both formal and informal programs.

The seminar hall is used for classes, study circles, and small-group learning activities as well as guest talks , workshops, and educational sessions. Its quiet atmosphere and flexible arrangement make it well-suited for focused learning and reflection.

The community room in the main building provides a quiet, adaptable space for small gatherings, reading groups, and meetings. With a small library and comfortable seating, the room is often used for individual study, reflection, or light group discussions. Its calm atmosphere makes it a suitable space for moments of quiet work during programs and gatherings.

Dining hall offers a welcoming shared meal area where visitors gather for breakfast and dinner each day. In addition to familiar dishes, our chef prepares a variety of Turkish and Mediterranean meals with care and attention to detail. A self-serve beverage station offers hot tea and coffee throughout the day, providing guests with a modest place to pause, relax, or meet others between programs.

CRC’s outdoor areas provide space for recreation, relaxation, and time in nature as part of the overall campus experience. The grounds include a basketball court, open fields suitable for soccer and volleyball, and a designated playground area for children. Visitors also enjoy several picnic spots and shaded seating areas near the lake and the creek.

For those who prefer quieter moments outdoors, a walking trail circles the pond and continues along parts of the creek, offering a peaceful route for reflection, conversation, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.

These outdoor spaces are used throughout the year by families, participants, and community groups as part of CRC’s programs and gatherings.