North American Islamic Trust

Etymology and Translations

• Arabic: الصندوق الإسلامي لشمال أمريكا (Al-Ṣunduq Al-Islāmī li-Shamāl Amrīkā)
• Turkish: Kuzey Amerika İslami Vakfı

Overview

The North American Islamic Trust (NAIT) is a nonprofit organization established in 1975 in the state of Indiana to honor and promote waqf (pious endowments) of Muslims in North America. NAIT oversees a significant number of mosques, Islamic centers, and Islamic schools throughout North America, fostering Islamic education, worship, and community service.

Objectives and Mission

1. Ownership and Maintenance of Waqf Properties: NAIT manages and sustains waqf properties such as mosques, schools, and Islamic centers.
2. Community Support: Providing legal and financial advisory services to Muslim communities managing waqf properties.
3. Educational Endeavors: Promoting Islamic education by supporting Islamic schools and educational initiatives.

History and Registration

• United States: Registered in the state of Indiana in 1975.
• Canada: A sister organization under the same name is registered in the province of Ontario.

Key Activities and Services

1. Mosque Management: NAIT owns and maintains numerous mosques across North America, facilitating worship and community services.
2. Islamic Centers and Schools: Providing support and resources to Islamic centers and schools to ensure their smooth operation.
3. Pious Endowments (Waqf): Promoting and managing pious endowments as a means to support the Muslim community’s growth and sustainability.

Further Reading

1. “Waqf in America: Islamic Charity in a Pluralistic Society” by Imad-ad-Dean Ahmad
2. “Eastern Flows to Western Shores: The Role of Waqf in North American Islamic Institutions” edited by Asadullah Hanif
3. “Islamic Law of Endowments and Trusts” by Yasir N. Mufti

Takeaways and Conclusion

The North American Islamic Trust (NAIT) plays a crucial role in owning, promoting, and maintaining waqf properties within the North American Muslim community. Through its management of mosques, Islamic centers, and educational institutions, NAIT supports the religious, educational, and community needs of Muslims across the region. Its commitment to sustaining waqf ensures that these assets continue to benefit future generations, fostering a strong and vibrant Muslim community in North America.

By understanding NAIT’s mission and roles, Muslims can better appreciate the significance of waqf and the efforts made to preserve and promote Islamic institutions in a pluralistic society.