Muslim leaders trying to build the first mosque in the northeastern state of New Hampshire face many of the same struggles other houses of worship contend with: Lack of funds and shrinking attendance.
The Islamic Society of New Hampshire also had to overcome another hurdle: Opposition from people afraid a mosque will attract dangerous extremists.
A decade after work began, the society has raised about $2 million for the project. That's less than half of what it needs to complete the domed mosque they say will help break down barriers.
The main obstacle has been funding, which relies on donations from a tiny local Muslim community. Society leaders are casting a wider net — to Muslims around the world — hoping to raise enough to finish the building before it deteriorates past the point of saving.
