We are thrilled to announce our new and improved IAA Amended Constitution (IAA_Amended_Constitution_8.0)

Exciting Updates to the

Islamic Association of Allen (IAA) Constitution!

Dear Respected IAA Community,

We are thrilled to announce our new and improved IAA Amended Constitution (IAA_Amended_Constitution_8.0)carefully crafted to meet the needs of our vibrant, growing membership here in Allen. Our Constitution Committee has extensively reviewed your feedback and updated the document after a thorough review, ensuring it truly reflects the voice of our community.

Below is a comprehensive overview of the key highlights, complete with article references, so you can see exactly how our guidelines have been enhanced.

1. Clear and Inclusive Membership

Article VI (Membership)

• Sets forth transparent eligibility criteria, detailing a straightforward application process for prospective members.

• Covers fair policies for membership suspension or revocation only under serious circumstances.

Why This Matters
A bigger community needs well-defined rules. This article ensures everyoneold and newknows exactly how to register, vote, and participate in IAA affairs.

2. Code of Conduct and Community Harmony

Article V(G) (Conduct and Decorum)

• Adopts a three-level system (Level I, II, III) to address misconduct, safeguarding Islamic values.

• Keeps our masjid environment respectful and spiritually uplifting.

Why This Matters
With more members and varied backgrounds, having fair and consistent steps for handling any issues helps us all maintain focus on worship and community building.

3. Transparent Elections and Independent Oversight

Article VII (Elections)

• Creates an independent Election Committee, ensuring impartial oversight and absentee voting so all members can participate.

• Outlines tie-breaking procedures and complaint processes, promoting fairness at every step.

Why This Matters
As the community grows, these measures protect election integrity, making sure leadership is truly representative.

4. Strengthened Board of Directors with Checks &Balances

Article III(D) & Article VIII(B) (Serving Term of the Board)

• Defines a 7-member Board of Directors (BOD), including President, Secretary, and Treasurer, each elected for two-year terms.

• Term limits (two consecutive terms) and lifetime term limit have been added for all board members which is not part of the current constitution. This will ensure the Board remains dynamic and forward-looking.

Article IX (Qualifications for the Board Members)

• Requires prior IAA volunteer service, a background check, and U.S. citizenshipfurther solidifying leadership standards.

Why This Matters
Clear officer roles and eligibility criteria let the community trust that their elected representatives have the skills and background to serve effectively.

5. Expanded Responsibilities and Accountability

Article XI (Responsibilities of the BOD and President)

• Details the BODs authority over daily operations, finances, and committee management.

• Affirms the Presidents leadership role in running meetings and ensuring resolutions are carried out, with the Treasurer and Secretary as critical checks.

Why This Matters
These explicit guidelines keep governance transparent, giving you a clear path to see how decisions are made.

6. Committee and Subcommittee Empowerment

Article XIII (Responsibilities of Committees and Subcommittees)

• Provides structure for forming committeese.g., youth, outreach, eventswith defined yearly goals and standard procedures.

• Specifies leadership elections, budget approvals, and performance tracking.

Why This Matters
Our community has grown dramatically. Committees now have the framework to handle bigger initiatives, leveraging your unique talents to benefit everyone.

7. Improved Employee and Contractor Protocols

Article XIV (Responsibilities of Contractors and Employees)

• Set guidelines for hiring and terminating personnel.

• Includes conflict-of-interest restrictions for BOD members, ensuring fair dealings and ethical standards.

Why This Matters
As we expand services, consistent HR policies help avoid misunderstandings, build professional relationships, and safeguard community trust.

8. Higher Financial Integrity and Conflict-of-Interest Safeguards

Article XV (Finances)

• Mandates periodic audits by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to ensure fiscal responsibility.

• Impose spending thresholds for major projects, requiring BOD approval.

Article XV(E)

• Enforces disclosure of personal or financial interests to preserve honesty and fairness in decision-making.

Why This Matters
Our larger donation base and broader activities make these measures crucial for maintaining transparency and honoring each dollar you contribute.

9. Comprehensive Dispute Resolution

Article XIX (Dispute Resolution and Arbitration)

• Implements a multi-layer approach, starting with internal mediation and escalating to binding arbitration if needed.

• Anchors the process in Islamic principles, preventing prolonged conflicts and preserving unity.

Why This Matters
With more members come more viewpoints. A clear, faith-based resolution procedure ensures issues are handled promptly and respectfully.

10. Recognizing Diverse Clergy Roles

Article XX (IAA Clergy)

• Broadens our definition of religious leadership beyond the Imam to include youth directors, scholars, and more.

• Emphasizes qualifications while safeguarding the Imams autonomy in spiritual decisions.

Why This Matters
Offering diverse leadership to meet the spiritual needs of youth, new Muslims, and the broader community is vital in todays dynamic environment.

Additional Advantages for a Growing Community

1. More Robust Committee Empowerment for Youth and Special Interests (Article XIII)

   • Specialized committees (e.g., youth, education) get clearer mandates and support.

   • Benefit: Better harnesses the strengths of different age groups, encouraging meaningful engagement.

2. Improved Coordination on Large-Scale Projects and Purchases (Article XV)

   • Spending thresholds and competitive bidding keep projects accountable.

   • Benefit: Promotes transparency for building expansions, facility improvements, and service contracts.

3. Safeguards for Property Sales or Leases (Article XVIII(H))

   • Requires Board oversight for selling or leasing property.

   • Benefit: Protects community assets, ensuring no hasty decisions affect IAAs property or long-term interests.

4. Liability Coverage and Protections (Article V(B))

   • Maintains general liability insurance for BOD members.

   • Benefit: Encourages more volunteers to serve knowing they are protected when acting on behalf of IAA.

5. Enhanced Annual General Body Meetings (Article XVI(A))

   • Central forum for presenting audited financials, committee reports, and future plans.

   • Benefit: Improves communication between leadership and community members.

6. Long-Term Planning and Yearly Objectives (Articles XI & XIII)

   • Encourages multi-year strategic goals beyond day-to-day tasks.

   • Benefit: Fosters sustainable growth and continuous development aligned with community feedback.

7. Stronger External Partnerships (Referencing Articles III(D), VIII, XI, XV)

   • Transparent structure and sound financial strengthen relationships with local civic or interfaith groups.

   • Benefit: Expands IAAs reach, credibility, and collaboration opportunities.

8. Greater Family Engagement (Articles VI & XIII)

   • Includes membership pathways and committee roles for younger adults (18+).

   • Benefit: Encourages the entire family to participate in leadership and service, ensuring continuity for future generations.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Our Constitution Committee has conducted a thorough review of your input to shape these amendments, making sure they align with IAAs founding vision and the practical realities of our expanding congregation. We invite you to read the full IAA_Amended_Constitution_8.0,and stay involved as we transition to this stronger, more comprehensive framework.

Jazakum Allahu khairan for your ongoing support, enthusiasm, and trust. May Allah (SWT) guide our community to continued prosperity, unity, and success.

Warm Regards,
On behalf of the IAA Constitution Committee and Board of Directors