Policies
IOST Masjid Fundraising Policy for Outside Organizations. Guidelines for external organizations seeking to conduct fundraising activities at IOST Masjid.
IOST Website Directory
Islamic Org. of the Southern Tier (IOST)
- 833-607-IOST
- office@iost.org
- 161 Grand Ave, Johnson City, NY
IOST Masjid Fundraising Policy for Outside Organizations
1. Purpose
This policy establishes the requirements, rules, and procedures for outside organizations seeking to conduct fundraising activities at IOST Masjid. The goal is to ensure all fundraising efforts are legitimate, transparent, and aligned with the Masjid’s mission while protecting community trust and resources.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Organizations
Only organizations meeting all of the following criteria will be considered:
- Tax-Exempt Status:Â Must be a government-recognized charitable organization with valid tax-exempt status.
- Mission Alignment: Must operate a cause aligned with IOST Masjid’s mission, including but not limited to:
- Relief and humanitarian work
- Dawah and Islamic education
- Community development projects
- U.S. Presence:Â Must have an established office in the United States. Organizations without a U.S. presence are not eligible.
- Reputable Scholar Support:Â Must have at least one recognized Islamic scholar associated with the organization.
- Professional Online Presence: Must maintain an official website detailing the organization’s mission, initiatives, and programs.
- Financial Transparency:Â Must provide financial statements or reports for the previous 12 months.
- References: Must submit at least one reference from a U.S.-based imam or reputable community leader confirming the organization’s credibility and past work.
- Unique Impact:Â Must demonstrate a unique aspect or contribution that differentiates it from other organizations operating in the same field.
Example: Building a masjid in an area with no existing masjids or conducting a program not already covered by other organizations. - Masjid Vetting: All organizations are subject to IOST Masjid’s review and approval. The Masjid will ensure that 100% of funds collected are directed toward the stated purpose.
3. Rules for Fundraising at IOST Masjid
Organizations approved for fundraising must adhere to the following rules:
- Type of Fundraising:Â Only fundraising appeals are allowed. Organizations may announce and request donations but cannot solicit specific amounts from individual attendees.
- Expenses:Â IOST Masjid will not cover any costs related to travel, lodging, or transportation. All expenses are the responsibility of the organization.
- Representative Approval:Â Any speaker, representative, or scholar must be approved by IOST Masjid prior to the fundraising event.
- Compliance and Integrity: Organizations must operate in full compliance with applicable laws and IOST Masjid policies. Misrepresentation, improper solicitation, or misuse of the Masjid’s platform will result in suspension or permanent denial of fundraising privileges.
4. Approval Process
Organizations must submit a formal fundraising request to IOST Masjid, including:
- Proof of tax-exempt status
- Mission statement and project description
- Financial records for the past 12 months
- References from a U.S.-based imam or community leader
- Scholar endorsement
IOST Masjid leadership will review the request and may request additional information. Approval is granted at the discretion of IOST Masjid leadership, based on eligibility criteria, mission alignment, and community benefit.
5. Communication of Approval
Approved organizations will receive written confirmation detailing:
- Fundraising date(s)
- Approved representatives
- Rules and expectations for the fundraising activity
Any violation of this policy may result in immediate revocation of fundraising privileges.
6. Summary Table (Quick Reference)
All criteria must be met for consideration. Approval is not guaranteed.
| Requirement / Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Tax-exempt status | Must be a government-recognized charity |
| Mission alignment | Relief, Dawah, community development |
| U.S. presence | Active U.S. office required |
| Reputable scholar | Must have a recognized scholar supporting them |
| Online presence | Must maintain a professional website |
| Financial transparency | Last 12 months of financial records |
| References | At least one U.S. imam or community leader reference |
| Unique impact | Must demonstrate unique contribution or advantage |
| Masjid vetting | 100% of funds must go to stated purpose; approval required |
| Type of fundraising | Appeals only, no specific solicitation |
| Expenses | Organization responsible for all costs |
| Representative approval | Must be approved by Masjid leadership |
| Compliance & integrity | Full adherence to laws and Masjid policies |
