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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
