This past Saturday, seven Muslim organizations took the first steps towards becoming officially recognized non-for-profit organizations by the State of Illinois. The Council held a workshop at the Downtown Islamic Center to assist organizations file the necessary paperwork to be recognized operating non-for-profits.
Attorney Gregory Abdullah Mitchell gave a presentation on the necessary steps for achieving tax exempt status and on becoming an incorporated non-for-profit organization. His presentation included pointers on filing incorporation paperwork, defining the purpose of your organization, applying for tax-exempt status, proper accounting classifications, and the importance of documenting your activities and financial records. Mr. Mitchell reminded the group that it was better to take your time and file that paperwork right the first time than going through it multiple times.
These organizations, such as the Chicago Association of Latin American Muslims (CALAM), gathered at the DIC were beginning the process of filing their paperwork. Joining CALAM were representatives from Dahira Touba of Chicago, the Senegalese organization, the Association of Guineans and Friends, the Imam W.D. Muhammad Community Center, the Union of North Ivorians, an organization for Chicago’s Ivory Coast community, Masjid al-Ihsan and AMAMAC, the Malian Association of Chicago.
Council treasurer and Certified Public Accountant, Tasneem Osmani, was available to answer accounting questions, and Ahmed Abdul Qadeer, the Chairman of the Council's Membership Committee, was on hand to assist with membership applications. Long time social worker Khaleelah Rafear and the Council’s Director of Outreach, Muneer Aliuddin, assisted organizations with their incorporation and 501(c)3 paperwork. The Council’s Health Care Outreach Coordinator, Mohammed Ibrahim, discussed with the organization’s leaders about the Council’s health care initiative and the various health care programs the Council offers.
Council Chairman Abdul Malik Mujahid, briefly introduced the Council to the group and invited all present to the Council’s November 19th Council Workshop Day. He also informed individuals on the various services the Council provides. The groups were handed packets on the Council along with flyers so that they may publicize the Council’s services to the community.
The Council would like to take a moment and thank those whose work was invaluable for the success of the workshop - Sister Khaleelah and Sheikh Khalil, and team member Farid al-Taqi. Thank you for your hard work and dedication!
Printed from the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago website (www.ciogc.org).
Powered by NetMasjid (www.netmasjid.com)