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About Us

Our Story

Four decades of family, community, and a belief that Huntsville's best days are built by its own people.

A Legacy Rooted in Community

1982. Mike Arafat opened the doors of Oxford Street Menswear in Huntsville, Alabama. What began as a small retail shop quickly grew into something much larger: a gathering place, a trusted name, and a testament to what one family's dedication could mean for an entire community.

For over four decades, Oxford Street has been more than a business. It has been a place where relationships are built, where young entrepreneurs find a mentor behind the counter, and where Huntsville families know they are always welcome.

The Arafat Family Foundation was established to carry that spirit forward. In honor of Ahmed Arafat, a loving husband, son, and brother, we channel our resources, experience, and deep roots in this city toward the causes that matter most: helping small businesses grow and ensuring every child in Huntsville has the opportunity to learn and thrive.

This is not a corporate foundation with distant goals. This is a family investing in the city that raised us, one grant, one classroom, and one partnership at a time.

Cultivate a vibrant future for Huntsville by championing local entrepreneurship and ensuring children have the resources they need to thrive.
Our Mission
Leadership

The People Behind the Mission

Our foundation is led by family members who bring decades of business expertise, education advocacy, and community commitment.

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Malik Arafat

Chair

As the foundation's strategic lead, Malik oversees all programs and partnerships, ensuring the family's philanthropic vision translates into real impact for Huntsville.

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Mike Arafat

Founder, Oxford Street Menswear

Mike opened the doors of Oxford Street Menswear in 1982 and has spent over four decades building a business rooted in community. He mentors grant recipients and aspiring entrepreneurs through the realities of building something that lasts.

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The Arafat Family

Education & Children's Advocacy

Additional family members lead initiatives in education advocacy and child wellness, drawing from professional backgrounds in these fields to shape the foundation's programs.

Our Values

What Guides Us

Community

Every decision we make starts with one question: how does this serve Huntsville?

Integrity

We are stewards of trust. Every dollar, every partnership, every promise is honored.

Education

Every child deserves the resources to learn. Every teacher deserves the tools to teach.

Entrepreneurship

Small businesses are the backbone of any city. We invest in the people who build them.

Join Our Mission

Whether through a grant application, a donation, or a conversation, we welcome you to be part of Huntsville's future.

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