In support of heritage: Potomac, MD, event raises funds for Scotland AME Zion Church

The fundraiser at the home of Indian American Frank F. Islam was for rebuilding a historic African American church.

Norton Manor, the elegant Potomac mansion of Indian American philanthropist Frank Islam and his wife, Debbie Driesman, has been a venue for numerous political, philanthropic, and social gatherings. Over the years, its doors have welcomed a diverse array of dignitaries and leaders, including former U.S. President Bill Clinton and the current occupant of the White House Joe Biden (when he was the vice president), as well as international figures like Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

Last week, Norton Manor played host to a fundraiser benefiting a cherished neighborhood institution — the Scotland African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church.

The fundraiser, held on March 13th, aimed to support the historic church’s “2nd Century Project,” an initiative focused on restoring and preserving its 100-year-old building, which suffered extensive damage in a flood in 2019.

Joining Islam and Driesman as hosts were billionaire Mitch Rales, owner of Washington Commanders and president of the National Gallery of Art, and his wife, Emily; and former Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett and his wife, Catherine.

Rep. Steny Hoyer, the senior-most Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives was a “special guest.” Other notable dignitaries included NFL Hall of Famer Darrell Green and Montgomery County Executive Mark Erlich.

More than a hundred attendees gathered to show their support, including several members of the Scotland AME Zion Church.

Founded in 1905, the Scotland AME Zion Church holds profound historical significance for the Scotland community—a small, historic African American neighborhood nestled within the affluent Potomac region of Montgomery County.

The original wood-frame structure, erected by hand and opened in 1924, stood as one of the last remnants of its kind in the area until it was nearly destroyed by a devastating flood in 2019.

The 2nd Century Project represents a three-phase initiative aimed at rescuing and revitalizing the church building. As the sole surviving historic structure in the Scotland community, its preservation carries immense cultural and historical significance for the region and its residents, Islam told the American Bazaar.

“Debbie and I have hosted many gatherings at our home. This reception for the Scotland AME Zion Church 2nd Century Project is truly special because of its purpose,” the philanthropist said in his welcome remarks. “Giving to support the Scotland Church, which we all know has been pivotal to our community’s past and will be pivotal to its future.”