Find Us Online
We're available through various
platforms. Follow us on Twitter, View Events/Lectures on YouTube, and/or Like our Facebook Page

 Join the Official _IFN WhatsApp Group


ISLAMIC FOUNDATION NORTH BY-LAWS

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH (SUBHA NAHU WA TA’ALA)
THE MOST BENEFICENT, THE MOST MERCIFUL

  CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS
OF
THE ISLAMIC FOUNDATION NORTH ILLINOIS, USA

INTRODUCTION

We, the members of the Islamic Foundation North (IFN), are extremely grateful to the Almighty Allah (SUBHA NAHU WA TA’ALA) for the religious liberty He has bestowed upon us and we seek His blessing for our endeavors to maintain a representative organization, which will provide an opportunity and services for the fullest religious and educational development of the individual and the Muslim Community. We the Muslims of IFN hereby resolve that a not for profit organization be formed and its constitution established for the smooth functioning of IFN.

ARTICLE I - GENERAL
SECTION 1.1    NAME
          The name of the organization shall be The Islamic Foundation North, hereinafter referred to as “IFN”.

SECTION 1.2    STATUS
          IFN shall be a not for profit Corporation organized under the laws of the State of Illinois.

SECTION 1.3    OFFICES
          IFN shall continuously maintain its headquarters in the State of Illinois.

ARTICLE II - AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
SECTION 2.1             

          The following shall be the aims and objectives of IFN:

                     2.1.1          Establish and maintain facilities for the practice of the religion of Islam in accordance with the
                                        teachings of the Quran and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), as defined by 
                                        recognized Fiqh Schools of thought of Ahl u Sunnah wal Jammaa’h.

                     2.1.2          Establish and maintain facilities for educational and social activities consistent with the teachings
                                        of the Quran and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), as defined by recognized
                                        Schools and Scholars of Ahl u Sunnah wal Jammaa’h.

                     2.1.3          Carry out religious, social, civic, charitable, literary, athletic, scientific, research and other Islamic
                                        activities pertaining to the realization of Islam as a complete way of life.

                     2.1.4          Strengthen bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims.

                     2.1.5          Establish and enhance cooperation with Muslim organizations.

                     2.1.6          Promote dialogue, friendly relations and understanding between Muslims and communities of
                                        other faiths.

                     2.1.7          Present the religion of Islam to the followers of other faiths.

                     2.1.8          Receive, hold, invest and disburse monies and properties or the income thereof which may be
                                        vested in or entrusted to the care of IFN whether by donations, gift, grant, bequest, devise, or
                                        otherwise for the furtherance of the aims and objectives of IFN.

                     2.1.9          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the objectives of IFN will be exclusively religious, educational and
                                        charitable within the meaning as defined in Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of
                                        the United States of America.

ARTICLE III - MEMBERSHIP
SECTION 3.1    DEFINITION OF A MUSLIM
          For the purpose of these by-laws, a Muslim is a person who attests to and believes in the following:

                    3.1.1           Allah – the One and only God (SUBHA NAHU WA TA’ALA), His angels, His books, His messengers, 
                                        the Last Day, and Devine destiny.

                    3.1.2           Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) as the last and final prophet and messenger of Allah – 
                                        the One and only God (SUBHA NAHU WA TA’ALA).

                    3.1.3           The Quran as revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) from Allah– the One and 
                                        only God (SUBHA NAHU WA TA’ALA).

                    3.1.4           The Quran as the basis of binding guidance in life, and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Peace 
                                        be Upon Him) as its practical application, consistent with the Quran.

SECTION 3.2    MEMBERSHIP
          A Member shall be defined as one who:

                    3.2.1           Accepts the aims and objectives of IFN as defined in Article II, and 

                    3.2.2           Meets the membership dues requirements as provided for in Article VIII, and

                    3.2.3           Is a legal resident of the United States, and verifiably resides within 30 miles of 1751
                                       
South O’Plaine Road, Waukegan, Illinois, as set out in the membership procedure of the 
                                        Membership Committee. 
 Individuals who had been members of the IFN prior to its opening (July
                                        2004) are exempt from the residency requirement in 3.2.3; and

                    3.2.4           Attests to being Muslim, as defined in Section 3.1, as well as the Muslim spouses and the Muslim
                                        minor children of Members

                     3.2.5          Practices the religion of Islam in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah of
                                        Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), as defined by recognized Fiqh Schools of thought of
                                        Ahl u Sunnah wal Jamma'h.
 

SECTION 3.3     VOTING RIGHTS
          Each Member over the age of 18 years shall be entitled to vote on matters submitted to the General Body, 
          provided the Member:

                    3.3.1           Has been in good standing for one (1) year, and

                    3.3.2           Has met all membership dues requirements no later than the 31st of March of the given election 
                                        year.

SECTION 3.4      TERM OF MEMBERSHIP
          The annual membership term shall begin and end with the calendar year (i.e., January 1 through December 31), 
          unless otherwise amended.

SECTION 3.5      TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
         
The Board of Trustees, by an affirmative vote of two-thirds majority may suspend or expel a member after an 
          appropriate hearing for cause affecting the ineligibility of a member on the basis of:

                     (1)        Article II-Aims and Objectives of IFN.

                     (2)       Section 3.9, Annual Dues and Fees. 

SECTION 3.6    REINSTATEMENT
         
Upon a written request, signed by the former member and filed with the Board Secretary, the Board of 
          Trustees, by a two-thirds affirmative vote, may reinstate the membership. 

SECTION 3.7     TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP
         
Membership is not transferable or assignable.

SECTION 3.8     MEMBERSHIP CERTIFICATES
         
No membership certificates shall be issued to Members.

SECTION 3.9    ANNUAL DUES AND FEES

                    3.9.1          Membership dues shall be set by the Executive Committee and subject to approval by the Board
                                       of Trustees.

                    3.9.2          Dues must be waived by the Executive Committee under special circumstances.

                    3.9.3          In order to retain voting rights, Members must pay their membership dues no later than the 31st
                                       of March of the election year, unless waived in accordance with 3.9.2.

                    3.9.4          The Executive Committee may assess charges or fees for special events and activities.

ARTICLE IV - GOVERNING BODIES
SECTION 4.1 
         
The Governance structure of IFN shall consist of a:
                     4.1.1          GENERAL BODY (GB)
                    
                     4.1.2          BOARD OF TRUSTEES (BOT)

                     4.1.3          EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (EC)

SECTION 4.2     GENERAL BODY
         
The General Body is made up of all active Members of IFN, as defined in section 3.2.  Motions passed by the 
          General Body shall be binding on the Board of Trustees, the Executive Committee, and IFN.

                    4.2.1          RESPONSIBILTIES OF THE GENERAL BODY

                                        4.2.1.1        Elect members to the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees.

                                        4.2.1.2        Decide, by a simple majority vote, unless otherwise specified,  on issues presented by 
                                                             the Executive Committee or the Board of Trustees.

                                        4.2.1.3        Attend regular and special meetings as arranged and requested by the Executive 
                                                            Committee or the Board of Trustees.

 SECTION 4.3    BOARD OF TRUSTEESS
         
The Board of Trustees shall provide strategic direction and be responsible for managing the governance of IFN.  
          The Board of Trustees shall consist of eleven (11) voting members. 

                     4.3.1          CHARACTERISTICS AND QUALIFICATIONS FOR BOARD MEMBERSHIP
                                       
To be eligible for membership on the Board of Trustees, the prospective candidate shall, in the 
                                        judgment of the majority of the Election Committee, demonstrate the characteristics outlined in 
                                        items 4.3.1.1, 4.3.1.2, 4.3.1.3, and 4.3.1.4, and have an absolute requirement to meet items 
                                        outlined in 4.3.1.5 and 4.3.1.6 below.

                                        4.3.1.1        Possess basic knowledge of the religion of Islam.

                                        4.3.1.2        Adhere to the basic principles of Islam.
                                        
                                       
4.3.1.3        Be committed to furthering the Aims and Objectives of “IFN”.

                                        4.3.1.4        Be actively involved in “IFN” community.

                                        4.3.1.5        Be a Member of “IFN” for the previous four (4) consecutive years.

                                        4.3.1.6        Not have a felony conviction in the previous 10 years.

                    4.3.2     TERM, MEETINGS AND LEADERSHIP

                                        4.3.2.1        The term of Board membership shall be five (5) years.

                                        4.3.2.2        Board members may not serve more than two (2) consecutive terms.

                                        4.3.2.3        The Board shall elect officers to serve in the positions of Chair, Vice Chair, 
                                                            Secretary, Finance Director from among the Board members, each to serve for a 
                                                            2-year term. 

                                        4.3.2.4       The Finance Director of the Board shall serve as the Chair of the Endowment 
                                                            Committee. 

                                        4.3.2.5        The Board of Trustees shall meet at least once per calendar quarter.

                                        4.3.2.6        The Chair of the Board, or a simple majority of the Board Members,  may call a special 
                                                            meeting of the Board of Trustees.  

                                        4.3.2.7       The agenda for Board regular meetings shall be provided by the Secretary to the 
                                                            Board members at least 2 weeks prior to any scheduled meeting.

                                        4.3.2.8       Should the Board of Trustees arrive at a tie vote, the President of the Executive 
                                                            Committee shall cast the tie-breaking vote.

                                        4.3.2.9       Each Board member is required to attend at least seventy five percent (75%) of the 
                                                            regular and special meetings held in a given calendar year to maintain their 
                                                            membership on the Board of Trustees. Excused absents shall count toward the 75% 
                                                            requirement.

                                        4.3.2.10     Two-thirds (2/3) of the total number of Board members shall constitute a quorum.

                                        4.3.2.11     If a quorum is not met in a given meeting, the secretary of the Board shall reschedule 
                                                            a new meeting at least one (1) week thence, at which meeting at least fifty percent 
                                                            (50%) of the Board members shall constitute a quorum.

                    4.3.3    DECISION MAKING
                                       
4.3.3.1        The Board shall strive to arrive at all decisions through consensus.

                                        4.3.3.2        Unless otherwise specified, all decisions arrived at by a vote shall require a Simple 
                                                            Majority of fifty one percent (51%).

                                        4.3.3.3        If a Super Majority is called for, it shall mean two-thirds (2/3) of the votes.

                    4.3.4     COMPENSATION

                                        4.3.4.1       Members of the Board of Trustees shall not receive any compensation for their 
                                                            services, benefit financially from their position, or be employed by IFN.

                                        4.3.4.2       Members of the Board of Trustees may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses  
                                                            incurred in the course of conducting the business of IFN, subject to the restrictions 
                                                            provided in 4.3.4.3. 

                                        4.3.4.3        At the beginning of the fiscal year the Board of Trustees shall establish a threshold 
                                                            dollar amount beyond which Board of Trustees as well as Executive Committee 
                                                            members would need approval by a simple majority vote of the Board of Trustees for 
                                                            reimbursement of direct expense.  

                    4.3.5     VACANCIES AND REPLACEMENTS

                                        4.3.5.1       In case of an unanticipated vacancy of the position on the Board of Trustees, the 
                                                           
position will be left open until the end of the year when the next election will be held   
                                                           to fill this partial term position.

                                         4.3.5.2       In case of any vacancy of the position of the President, the Vice President shall
                                                            become President complete the term until the next regularly scheduled executive
                                                            committee election.
.

                                         4.3.5.3       In case of any vacancy of the Executive Committee positions, other than the
                                                            President, the Board of Trustees may appoint a member to complete the term until
                                                            the next regularly scheduled executive committee election.

                                         4.3.5.4       All candidates on the list shall be required to satisfy the characteristics and
                                                            qualification criteria outlined in 4.3.1 or 4.4.1, depending on the open seat. 

                    4.3.6     RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD 

                                        4.3.6.1        Provide vision, leadership, and maintain focus on the Aims and Objectives as 
                                                            described in Article II.

                                        4.3.6.2        Maintain, and provide oversight for properties, deeds, assets, investments, and 
                                                            endowments held in the name of IFN.

                                        4.3.6.3        Under special and unusual circumstances, and if the Board of Trustees can
                                                            show
cause to dismiss one or more members of the Executive Committee, and after a 
                                                            full hearing to discuss the charges, the Board of Trustees may carry out the dismissal 
                                                            with a three-fourths (3/4) affirmative vote.  

                                        4.3.6.4        In the event the whole Executive Committee is dismissed, the Board of Trustees shall 
                                                            appoint, within fourteen (14) days of the dismissal, a “Care Taker” committee in its 
                                                            place for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days.  A new Executive Committee shall be 
                                                            elected within the sixty days through the regular election process.  Such Committee 
                                                            shall serve the remainder of the term of the dismissed Committee.

                                        4.3.6.5        Establish an endowment fund for the IFN to be managed by the Endowment 
                                                            Committee.

                                        4.3.6.6        Prepare and present bi-annual capital budget proposals for discussion and approval 
                                                            by the General Body.

                                        4.3.6.7        The Secretary of the Board of Trustees shall be responsible for maintaining all non-
                                                            financial records pertaining to IFN, including reports of standing
                                                           
Committees, sub-Committees, or other working groups; minutes of meetings held by 
                                                            the Executive Committee, the Board of Trustees and the General Body.

                                        4.3.6.8        The Secretary of the Board of Trustees, in coordination with the Secretary of the 
                                                            Executive Committee shall be responsible for developing the agenda and sending out 
                                                            timely notifications of meetings of the General Body.

                                        4.3.6.9       The Chairman of the Board of Trustees shall preside over the General Body Meetings.

SECTION 4.4    EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
         
The Executive Committee shall consist of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Social Events 
          Director. 

                    4.4.1     CHARACTERISTICS AND QUALIFICATIONS FOR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
                                       
To be eligible for membership of the Executive Committee, the prospective candidate shall, in 
                                        the judgment of the majority of the Nomination Committee, demonstrate the characteristics 
                                        outlined in items 4.4.1.1, 4.4.1.2, and 4.4.1.3, and have an absolute requirement to meet items 
                                        outlined in 4.4.1.4 and 4.4.1.5 below:
                                       

                                        4.4.1.1        Possess basic knowledge of the religion of Islam.

                                        4.4.1.2        Adhere to the basic principles of Islam.

                                        4.4.1.3        Be committed to furthering the Aims and Objectives of IFN.

                                        4.4.1.4        Have been a Member of IFN for the previous two (2) consecutive years.

                                        4.4.1.5        Not have a felony conviction in the previous 10 years.

                     4.4.2    TERM, MEETINGS AND LEADERSHIP

                                        4.4.2.1        The term of each member of the Executive Committee shall be two (2) years.

                                        4.4.2.2        The President of the Executive Committee may not serve for more than two (2) 
                                                            consecutive terms in the position of President. 

                                        4.4.2.3        Members of the Executive Committee may not hold any Executive Committee office 
                                                            positions for more than a total four (4) consecutive terms.

                                        4.4.2.4        The Executive Committee shall meet at least once a month.  The secretary of the 
                                                            executive committee shall make the agenda of the meeting available to the Executive 
                                                            Committee members at least one week prior to the scheduled meeting.

                                        4.4.2.5       Two-thirds (2/3) of the total number of the Executive Committee members shall 
                                                            constitute a quorum.

                                        4.4.2.6       Each Executive Committee member is required to attend at least seventy five percent 
                                                            (75%) of the regular and special meetings of the executive committee held in a given 
                                                            calendar year to maintain their membership on the Executive Committee. Excused 
                                                            absents shall count toward the 75% requirement.

                                        4.4.2.7       The President shall be a de facto, non-voting member of the Board of Trustees,
                                                           
except in the case of a tie breaking vote.  The President shall provide ongoing reports 
                                                            to the Board on operational issues and general functions and programs at the IFN.  

                                        4.4.2.8        Should the Executive Committee arrive at a tie vote, the side of the President shall 
                                                            prevail.

                                        4.4.2.9       The President may call a special meeting of the Executive Committee.

                                        4.4.2.10     The Executive Committee shall hold quarterly informational meetings with 
                                                            the  General Body to facilitate communications and information flow in both 
                                                            directions.

                     4.4.3    DECISION MAKING

                                        4.4.3.1        The Executive Committee shall strive to arrive at all decisions through consensus.

                                        4.4.3.2        If 4/5th of the Executive Committee members believe any matter should be put 
                                                            towards a vote then the President shall be required to conduct one. 

                                        4.4.3.3        All decisions arrived at by a vote shall require a Simple Majority (51%).

                    4.4.4    COMPENSATION

                                        4.4.4.1        No member of the Executive Committee shall be compensated, financially or 
                                                            otherwise, for their time or effort in discharging their duties.

                                        4.4.4.2        Members of the Executive Committee may be reimbursed for any reasonable out of 
                                                            pocket expenses incurred in the course of conducting the business of the IFN, subject 
                                                            to the restrictions provided in 4.3.4.3.

                    4.4.5    RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

                                        4.4.5.1        Execute the strategies provided by the Board of Trustees.  

                                        4.4.5.2        Provide management and leadership in the day-to-day operation of the IFN.

                                        4.4.5.3        Develop appropriate programs to achieve the Aims and Objectives outlined in Article 
                                                            II.

                                        4.4.5.4        Represent and articulate the opinion, desires and views of the Community at 
                                                            meetings of Board of Trustees.

                                        4.4.5.5        Represent IFN at any organization(s) the Board of Trustees may specify. 

                                        4.4.5.6        Serve as the official representative and spokesperson for IFN.

                                        4.4.5.7        Appoint directors for the various standing and volunteer committees.

                                        4.4.5.8        Provide guidance, direction and leadership to Standing Committees, subCommittees 
                                                            and Working Groups.

                                        4.4.5.9        Submit an annual operating budget for the IFN to the Board of Trustees for approval.

                    4.4.6    RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

                                        4.4.6.1        Assume responsibilities of the President in the absence of the latter.

                                        4.4.6.2        Perform any other duties assigned by the President.

                                        4.4.6.3        Oversee education programming at IFN.

                                        4.4.6.4        Facilitate and organize religious and non-religious programs at IFN.

                                 4.4.6.5        Responsible for securing IFN's physical, digital and personal security.

                                        4.4.6.6        Perform any other duties assigned by the President.

                    4.4.7    RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SECRETARY OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

                                        4.4.7.1        Coordinate with the Membership Committee to maintain updated membership 
                                                            records of all members of IFN.

                                        4.4.7.2        Assist the Election Committee in its efforts to validate and verify membership status 
                                                            in preparations for elections.

                                        4.4.7.3        Assist the Secretary of the Board of Trustees, in sending out timely notifications of 
                                                            meetings of the General Body. 

                                        4.4.7.4        Responsible for all official communications between the Executive Committee and all 
                                                            other external entities to conduct the affairs of IFN. 

                                        4.4.7.5        Responsible for sending out timely notifications of meetings of the Executive 
                                                            Committee.

                                        4.4.7.6        Prepare the agenda for each meeting of the Executive Committee where the President
                                                             shall so require.

                                        4.4.7.7        Responsible for the oversight of Facilities Operation & Maintenance Committee.
  
                                        4.4.7.8        Perform any other duties assigned by the President.
                                       

                    4.4.8    RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TREASURER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

                                        4.4.8.1        Maintain all financial records pertaining to the operation of IFN.

                                        4.4.8.2        Develop and maintain sound financial practices.

                                        4.4.8.3        Serve as a financial advisor to the President.

                                        4.4.8.4        Prepare annual operating budget to be submitted by the President to the Board of 
                                                            Trustees for approval.

                                        4.4.8.5        Serve as member of the Finance Committee

                                        4.4.8.6        Responsible for the timely preparation and filing of all documents required to satisfy 
                                                            the accounting needs of the IFN in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting 
                                                            Principles and any applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and federal or 
                                                            state law.

                                        4.4.8.7        Perform any other duties assigned by the President.

                 4.4.9     RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SOCIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

                                        4.4.9.1        Coordinate social activities at IFN as decided by the Executive Committee.

                                        4.4.9.2        Responsible for the rental activity of the facility.

                                        4.4.9.3        Assist the Executive Committee secretary in planning and execution of special events 
                                                            and celebrations as decided by the Executive Committee. 

                                        4.4.9.4    Perform any other duties assigned by the President.

ARTICLE V - COMMITTEES
IFN shall have standing, ad-hoc, and temporary committees. Sincere efforts shall be made to ensure that members of these committees possess relevant experience and expertise in the area for which they are assigned.  Each committee shall reports to the respective authority that appointed it and shall not make decisions, independent of such authority, which may bind IFN in any way.

The President of the Executive Committee shall form and have oversight over the following standing committees, with the consent of the other members of the Executive Committee, as soon as possible after assuming office:  
         
•       Religious Affairs Committee; 

          •       Education Committee; 

          •       Facilities Operation & Maintenance Committee; 

          •       Public Relations and Outreach Committee; 

          •       Youth Services Committee;

          •       Membership Committee; and

          •       Women's Affiar Committee;

The Board of Trustees shall form and have oversight over the following standing committees, as soon as possible after assuming office: 
         
•       Finance Committee, 

          •       Election Committee and 

          •       Endowment Committee. 

In addition, either the Executive Committee or the Board of Trustees may set up and designate one or more committee(s), sub-committee(s), or working group(s). The appointing authority may, at its own discretion, change one of more members of any committees.

SECTION 5.1    RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

                    5.1.1    Develop, promote and organize all religious activities, as described in Article II. 

                    5.1.2    Coordinate and administer the daily, Friday (Juma’a), Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Adha prayers 
                                 schedules.

                    5.1.3    Develop criteria for, and oversee, the distribution of Zakat, Sadaqat, and other charitable funds.

                    5.1.4    Develop and manage the Adult religious education programs in coordination with the Education 
                                 Committee.

                    5.1.5    Participate in interfaith activities.

                    5.1.6    Report the activities of the Religious Affairs Committee to the Executive Committee at its regular 
                                 meetings, or when asked by the President.

                    5.1.7    The committee will comprise of three (3) members: Director of Religious Affairs, to be appointed 
                                 by the President, and two other members.

                    5.1.8    The Director of Religious Affairs may solicit the help and participation of any member of the 
                                 community as deemed appropriate.

                    5.1.9    The Religious Affairs Committee shall also serve in an advisory capacity to the Executive Committee.

SECTION 5.2    EDUCATION COMMITTEE

                    5.2.1    Develop and implement Islamic educational programs for children including, but not limited to, 
                                 curriculum for all educational programs.

                    5.2.2    Assist the Religious Affairs Committee in developing and administering Adult education programs.

                    5.2.3    Report the activities of the Education Committee to the Executive Committee at its regular meetings, 
                                 or when asked by the President.

                    5.2.4    The Education Committee shall comprise of five (5) members: a Director of Education, to be 
                                 appointed by the President, and four additional members to be proposed by the Director of 
                                 Education and approved by the Executive Committee.  Two of the four members shall be from 
                                 among the weekend-School teachers, and the other two members shall be from among the rest of 
                                 the community.

                    5.2.5    The Director of Education may solicit the help and participation of any member of the community as 
                                 deemed appropriate.

                    5.2.6    The Education Committee shall also serve in an advisory capacity to the Executive Committee.

SECTION 5.3    FACILITIES OPERATION & MAINTENANCE COMMITTEE

                    5.3.1    Develop maintenance schedules for IFN’s facilities and real property and maintain accurate and 
                                 contemporaneous maintenance records.

                    5.3.2    Prepare annual maintenance budget and present it to the President for use in the overall Operations 
                                 Budget of the Executive Committee.

                    5.3.3    Assist the Executive Committee in the selection of contractors and the awarding of contracts.

                    5.3.4    Solicit proposals and manage and administer relationships with outside vendors.

                    5.3.5    Assist the Board of Trustees in facilities and expansion planning.

                    5.3.6    Report the activities of the Facilities Operation and Maintenance Committee to the Executive 
                                 Committee at its regular meetings, or when asked by the President.

                    5.3.7    The Facilities Operation and Maintenance Committee shall comprise of three (3) members: Director 
                                 of Facilities and Maintenance to be appointed by the President; and two (2) additional members. 

                    5.3.8    The Director of Facilities Operation may solicit the help and participation of any member of the 
                                 community as deemed appropriate

                    5.3.9    The Facilities Operation and Maintenance Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the 
                                 Executive Committee.

SECTION 5.4    PUBLIC RELATIONS AND OUTREACH COMMITTEE

                    5.4.1    Develop programs to pro-actively reach out to and build bridges with neighbors and the local 
                                 community at large.

                    5.4.2    Develop a “Welcome Packet” of information for new Muslim visitors to IFN community.

                    5.4.3    Manage IFN’s involvement with civic organizations, such as organizations promoting social justice 
                                 within the local community, to ensure continuous and productive engagement.

                    5.4.4    Coordinate with the Religious Affairs and Education Committees to develop programs with schools, 
                                 colleges and universities in the surrounding area to help educate the public about Islam and Muslims.

                    5.4.5    Work with the President to represent the IFN in the local community and at various media outlets.

                    5.4.6    Distribute information through newsletters, the internet, mailings and other forms of dissemination.

                    5.4.7    Develop and produce any special promotional material, flyers and special announcements.

                    5.4.8    The Public Relations and Outreach Committee shall comprise of three (3) members: Director of 
                                 Public Relations and Outreach to be appointed by the President; and two (2) additional members. 

                    5.4.9    Maintain the audio-visual records and archives of the IFN under the guidance and leadership of the 
                                 Secretary of the Executive Committee.

                    5.4.10  The Director of Public Relations and Outreach may solicit the help and participation of any member 
                                 of the community as deemed appropriate.

                    5.4.11  The Public Relations and Outreach Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Executive 
                                 Committee.

SECTION 5.5    YOUTH SERVICES COMMITTEE

                    5.5.1    Plan all youth social, athletic, recreational, and volunteer activities.

                    5.5.2    Report the activities of the committee to the Executive Committee at its regular meetings, or when 
                                 requested by the President.

                    5.5.3    The Youth Services Committee shall comprise of four (4) members: a Director of Youth Services, to 
                                 be appointed by the President, and three additional members to be proposed by the Director and 
                                 approved by the Executive Committee.  Two of the four
members shall be male members, and two 
                                 shall be female members. At least one male and one female member must be under 25.  

                    5.5.4    The Director of Youth Services may solicit the help and participation of any member of the 
                                 community as deemed appropriate.

SECTION 5.6        MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

                    5.6.1    Organize and arrange membership drives for IFN.

                    5.6.2    Work with the Secretary of the Executive Committee to develop, update and keep current the           
                                 membership database for IFN.

                    5.6.3    The Membership Committee shall comprise of three (3) members: Director of Membership, to 
                                 be appointed by the President, and two additional members.

                    5.6.4    The Director of Membership may solicit the help and participation of any member of the community 
                                 as deemed appropriate.
 

                    5.6.5    The Membership Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Executive Committee.

SECTION 5.7    FINANCE COMMITTEE

                    5.7.1    Work with Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees to develop a proper and sound financial 
                                 foundation for IFN.

                    5.7.2    Coordinate with the Religious Affairs Committee to administer the Zakat, Sadaqat and other 
                                
charitable funds.

                    5.7.3    Participate and manage fundraising activities for IFN throughout the year in coordination with the 
                                 BOT and EC.

                    5.7.4    The Finance Committee shall be responsible for selecting an independent auditor to conduct an audit 
                                 of the financial records of IFN a minimum of once every 2 years. 

                    5.7.5    The Finance Committee shall comprise of three (3) members led by the Finance Director of the Board 
                                 of Trustees and includes the Treasurer of the Executive Committee.

                    5.7.6    The Finance Committee may solicit the help and participation of any member of the community as 
                                 deemed appropriate.

                    5.7.7    The Finance Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Board of Trustees and the Executive 
                                 Committee.

                    5.7.8    Due to the fiduciary responsibilities of the Board of Trustees, the finance committee will report to 
                                 the Board of Trustees.

SECTION 5.8    ELECTION COMMITTEE

                    5.8.1    The Election Committee shall consist of three (3) members: a Chair and two (2)
                                
members to be appointed by the Board of Trustees. Each member on the Election Committee shall 
                                 serve until the Election Committee is dissolved following the election period. 

                    5.8.2    By accepting to serve on the Election Committee, the Election Committee members agree to forfeit 
                                 their right to be nominated or elected to any open seat in that election cycle.  Election Committee 
                                 members shall retain their voting rights.

                    5.8.3    The Election Committee shall be formed no later than three (3) months prior to the date of elections 
                                 and shall dissolve 10 days after elections. 

                    5.8.4    The Election Committee shall stop accepting nominations one (1) week prior to the date of the 
                                 upcoming election in order to prepare ballots and organize the elections.

                    5.8.5    The Chairman of the Election Committee shall preside over the election portion of the General Body 
                                 meeting and conduct the elections with the assistance of the other two members of the Committee.

                    5.8.6    The results of the election shall be available for review by any member upon proper request to the 
                                 Election Committee, up to 10 days following the election day, subsequent to which all records will be 
                                 destroyed to protect confidentiality. 

                    5.8.7    The Election Committee shall present the results of each election to the members of the Board of 
                                 Trustees not up for re-election. 

SECTION 5.9    ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE

                    5.9.1    The Endowment Committee shall be responsible for the planning, execution and management of an 
                                 endowment program for the IFN.

                    5.9.2    The Endowment Committee shall coordinate investment plans for the endowment fund through 
                                 collaboration with the Religious Affairs Committee and shall only invest in Shari’aah compliant 
                                 investment opportunities. 

                    5.9.3    The Endowment Committee shall be responsible for the appointment and oversight of a professional 
                                 investment manager who will manage the endowment in accordance with provision 5.9.2.

                    5.9.4    Due to the fiduciary responsibilities of the Board of Trustees, the Endowment Committee will report 
                                 to the Board of Trustees 

                    5.9.5    Unless a resolution is passed at the beginning of the year by a majority vote of the Board of Trustees 
                                 to allocate a different amount, the Board of Trustees shall allocate a minimum of 10% of the annual 
                                 gross income of IFN towards investment in the endowment Fund.

                    5.9.6    The Endowment Committee shall comprise of three (3) members led by the Director of Finance of 
                                 the Board of Trustees,   

                    5.9.7    The Endowment Committee may solicit the help and participation of any member of the community 
                                 as deemed appropriate.

SECTION 5.10    WOMEN'S AFFAIRS COMMITTEES

                    5.10.1    The Women's Affairs Committee shall be responsible for advocating for the women members at
                                    IFN.

                    5.10.2    The Women's Affairs Committee shall comprise of three (3) members appointed by the Executive 
                                   Committee with at least two (2) members of the committee being women.

SECTION 5.11    AD HOC COMMITTEES

                    5.11.1    The Board of Trustees may commission any ad hoc committee(s) for specific purposes.

                    5.11.2    Any such committee shall consist of a minimum of three individuals.

                    5.11.2    Any such committee shall be provided with a written mandate clearly outlining the scope of tasks, 
                                   objectives, and deliverables. The term of duration of the committee shall also be specified in the 
                                   written mandate. 

                    5.11.4    In cases involving potential un-Islamic activities, members of any ad-hoc committee assembled to 
                                   address such issues must have adequate knowledge of Quran and Sunnah, and be well versed in 
                                   Islamic teachings.  At least one of the members must be from the Religious Affairs Committee.

                    5.11.5    All ad-hoc committees shall make their recommendation to the Board of Trustees. The Board 
                                   of Trustees will then consider the recommendations and act on them accordingly.

ARTICLE VI - MEETINGS
SECTION 6.1    ANNUAL MEETING

                    6.1.1    The annual meeting of the Members of IFN shall be held in the fourth quarter of each calendar year.  
                                 The Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee will make a good faith effort to select a date 
                                 that will maximize attendance of the General Body at the annual meeting.

                    6.1.2    The Secretary of the Board of Trustees, with assistance from the Secretary of the
                                
Executive Committee, shall send out a notice to all Members, as defined in Section 3.2, detailing the 
                                 date, time, and place of the meeting, at least two (2) weeks in advance of the annual meeting.

                    6.1.3    The agenda of the Annual meeting shall include:

                                        6.1.3.1        Minutes from the previous Annual meeting.

                                        6.1.3.2        Annual report of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees

                                        6.1.3.3        Annual report of the President of the Executive Committee

                                        6.1.3.4        Treasurer report, including a balance sheet, general statement of income and 
                                                             expenses along with an auditor’s report, if applicable.

                                        6.1.3.5       Elections to fill vacancies on the Executive Committee or the Board of Trustees, when 
                                                            required.

                                        6.1.3.6        Questions or issues raised from the floor. 

SECTION 6.2    SPECIAL MEETINGS

                    6.2.1    A special meeting of the General Body may be called at any time upon the written request of one 
                                 tenth (1/10) of the total number of Members as defined in Section 3.2

                    6.2.2    The Secretary of the Board of Trustees shall announce the special meeting no less than two (2) weeks 
                                 in advance of the proposed date.

SECTION 6.3    QUORUM

                    6.3.1    Quorum at any regular or special General Body meeting shall be determined by the physical 
                                 presence of one third (1/3) of the total number of Members as defined in Section 3.2, as well as at 
                                 least three (3) members of the Board of Trustees, and two members of the Executive Committee.

                    6.3.2    In the event a quorum is not met, the Secretary of the Board of Trustees shall determine the date 
                                 and time of a subsequent meeting not to exceed two (2) weeks thenceforth and notify all Members 
                                 of the same.
 

                    6.3.3    At the rescheduled meeting, quorum shall be met by the physical presence of one sixth (1/6) of the 
                                 total number of Members as defined n Section 3.2, as well as three (3) members of the Board of 
                                 Trustees, and two (2) members of the Executive Committee.  All decisions resulting from such
                                 meeting are official and binding on IFN.

                    6.3.4    Physical Presence shall be defined as having actual, physical presence at IFN on the day of the
                                 election, an absentee ballot or proxy under Section 6.4 or via electronic vote under Section 7.1 which
                                 includes the name of the voter.

SECTION 6.4    ABSENTEE BALLOTS

                    6.4.1    Members eligible to vote, as defined in Section 3.3, may vote by proxy, or absentee ballot. 

                    6.4.2    Where applicable, a write up of issues to be voted on, shall be provided by the Secretary of the 
                                 Board of Trustees.

                    6.4.3    Absentee ballots shall be provided by the Chairman of the Election Committee.

                    6.4.4    Each absentee ballot must bear the name, address and signature of the Member.

                    6.4.5    Each absentee ballot must be delivered in person or mailed postdated no later than one (1) week 
                                 before the scheduled meeting, to the attention of the Secretary of the Board or, in the case of 
                                 elections, to the Chairman of the Election Committee.

ARTICLE VII - ELECTIONS
SECTION 7.1    ELECTION CYCLE
                   7.1.1       Standing elections must be declared between November 1 and December 15 of each year.

SECTION 7.2    NOTICE OF VACANCIES
          The notice of the Annual meeting, and General or Special elections, shall contain the following information:

                   
7.2.1     Number and nature of vacancies on the Executive Committee.

                    7.2.2     Number and nature of vacancies on the Board of Trustees.

                    7.2.3     Names and contact information of the Election Committee members.

                    7.2.4     The deadline by which nominations have to be submitted to the Election Committee.

                    7.2.5     All positions whose term is ending in the year of the election, or any resignations for the same year,
                                  given year shall be eligible for elections.

SECTION 7.3    NOMINATIONS
          Vacancies on the Executive Committee or Board of Trustees shall be filled from the general Membership by the 
          following process:

                   
7.3.1    Only Members shall be eligible to make nominations for the Executive Committee and Board of 
                                 Trustees.

                    7.3.2    All nomination forms must be signed by the nominating member.

                    7.3.3    Only nominations submitted to the Election Committee by the deadline shall be considered for 
                                 inclusion on the ballot.

                    7.3.4    The Election Committee shall verify and validate membership of nominators and eligibility and 
                                 personal acceptance of nominees.

SECTION 7.4    VOTING METHODS
                   7.4.1       In addition to voting on paper ballots or in person, any amendments to bylaws, voting for elections,
                                   or the like may be voted on using electronic voting methods, such as email or surveys.

                   7.4.2      All election records shall be saved for a period of at least ten (10) days, after the election results are
                                  declared.

SECTION 7.5    ONE-TIME ADJUSTMENT PERIOD
                   7.5.1      In order to achieve long-term continuity on the Board of Trustees and to avoid mass replacement 
                                  of the Board of Trustees in any given year, beginning 2016, current members of the Board of
                                  Trustees shall start to voluntarily tender their resignation from the Board of Trustees (the
                                  Adjustment"). The resignations shall be coordinated as follows: 

                                        7.5.1.1        One (1) member shall voluntarily resign effective December 31, 2016;

                                        7.5.1.2        Two (2) members shall voluntairly resign effective December 31, 2017;

                                        7.5.1.3        Two (2) members shall voluntairly resign effective December 31, 2018;

                                        7.5.1.4        Three (3) members shall voluntairly resign effective December 31, 2019;

                                        7.5.1.5        No voluntary resignations shall be necessary past 2019.

                   7.5.2      Any members who have volunteered to resign from the current Board of Trustees for the
                                  Adjustment shall tender their written resignation letters on or before these Bylaws are enacted and
                                  such resignation shall state "For purposes of resigning under Section 7.4"

                   7.5.3      Any members who has volunteered to tender its resignation for the Adjustment shall have the option
                                  to substitute its resignation with another member, any time before September 1 of the given year.

                   7.5.4      Any resignation tendered for the Adjustment will be considered a partial term and the individual
                                  shall have the ability to run for future elections. Resigning for any other purpose during the
                                  Adjustment shall be deemed a full-term for purposes of term limits.

                   7.5.5      Upon the expiration of the terms of office of the current Board of Trustees, all future members shall
                                  be elected for a term of five (5) years each.

ARTICLE VIII    IMAM
                    8.1.1    The Imam shall work closely with the Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees.

                    8.1.2    The Imam shall be a permanent member of the Religious Affairs Committee.

                    8.1.3    The Imam shall report directly to the Executive Committee President. The annual goals and objectives
                                 for the Imam will be established by the Executive Committee President with approval of the Board of
                                 Trustees. The Executive Committee President will be responsible for the annual progress and 
                                 achievement of the goals and objectives, and will report the same to the Board of Trustees.

                    8.1.4    The Board of Trustees shall have the sole authority to:

                                        8.1.4.1        Hire or terminate the Imam's employment with IFN; and

                                        8.1.4.2        Determine compensation and raises.

ARTICLE IX    CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS
SECTION 9.1     CONTRACTS

          The Board of Trustees may authorize any member(s), agent(s) of the IFN, in addition to persons(s) authorized by 
          these by-laws, in coordination with the Facilities Operation & Maintenance Committee, to enter into any contract 
          or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the IFN and such authority may be general 
          or confined to specific instances.

SECTION 9.2    CHECKS AND DRAFTS

          Subject to the restrictions found in 4.3.4.3, all checks or other orders of payments of money, notes or other           
          evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of IFN shall be signed by either the Treasurer, President or 
          Secretary of the Executive Committee. If the above officers are not available, the Chair, the Secretary or the 
          Director of Finance of the Board of Trustees may sign until the officers of the Executive Committee are available.  

SECTION 9.3    DEPOSITS

          All funds of IFN shall be deposited to the credit of IFN in such Banks, Trust companies or other depositories as the 
          Board of Trustees may select.

SECTION 9.4    GIFTS

          The Board of Trustees and Executive Committee may accept, on behalf of IFN, any contributions, gifts, bequest or 
          device for general purposes or any special purpose.

ARTICLE X    RECORDS
SECTION 10.1
          The Executive Committee shall maintain and keep the following records:

                    10.1.1    Complete, Correct books and records of all financial accounts.

                    10.1.2    An accurate and current list containing all relevant contact information of Members.

                    10.1.3     All audio and video records of events relating to the IFN, where it is reasonably viable to do so.

SECTION 10.2
          All books and records may be reviewed and inspected by any Member, his/her agent or attorney, after providing 
          a two-week written notice.

ARTICLE XI     FISCAL YEAR

SECTION 11.1 
          The fiscal year of IFN shall begin and end with the calendar year, unless otherwise amended.

ARTICLE XII     AMENDMENTS

SECTION 12.1
         
For any proposed amendment(s) to these Bylaws to be considered for vote and adoption, such consideration shall 
          be either (a) approved by a three fourths (3/4) affirmative vote of the Board of Trustees, or (b) submitted in 
          writing to the Board of Trustees with the signatures of at least one third (1/3) of all Members.

SECTION 12.2
         
Subject to the provisions of Section 12.1, a two-week prior notice shall be given to all Members stating the 
          specific amendment(s) and the date and time of the Annual/Special Meeting to discuss and vote on any such 
          amendment(s).

SECTION 12.3          
         
A three fourths (3/4) affirmative vote, in an Annual/Special General Body meeting having proper quorum, shall be 
          required for any proposed amendment(s) to be adopted.

ARTICLE XIII    DISSOLUTION

SECTION 13.1
         
IFN may liquidate or dissolve any or all assets by a three-fourths (3/4) affirmative vote at a session of the General 
          Body, where such a proposal has been written into the agenda, or by a written consent signed by three 
          fourths
(3/4) of the  Members.

SECTION 13.2
         
Upon dissolution of IFN, all assets shall be used to pay any liabilities IFN may have.  Any and all remaining assets 
          shall be transferred to a tax exempt Muslim organization, having similar goals and objectives as IFN, under the tax 
          laws of the United States of America.  Unless otherwise determined at a meeting or by written notice as provided 
          for in Section 13.1, the transference of such assets will be carried out by a three fourths (3/4) vote of the General 
          Body designating the transferee(s).            

NOTES:
         
These Bylaws were adopted unanimously by the Board of Trustees (BOT) of IFN at the scheduled board meeting 
          on December 13, 2015 and ratified by the membership at the Annual General Body Meeting held on January 10, 
          2016.

          These Bylaws are effective as of January 10, 2016.

          

Board of Trustee Members:

Masood Ahmed - Chairman

Haris Jamil - Vice Chair

Mamadou Diallo - Secretary

Rubina Khan - Member

Fehmida Khan - Member

Ishaq Mohiuddin - Member

Tanveer Jaffer - Member

Moghisuddin Ahmad – Member

Rizwan Shaikh - Member

Rubina Khan- Member

Syed Shahabuddin – Member

Jaseem Anwer - President of Executive Committee


 Join the Official _IFN WhatsApp Group

 IFN is proud  to be MUHSEN  certified.  Click here
Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software