Both NPR’s Marketplace and the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) have released reports on trends in Muslim charitable giving during the 10 years following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
In the past decade, Muslim charities have seen a decrease in charitable contributions due in part to donor’s fears that charities they wish to support will be designated by the U.S. government as a FTO (Foreign Terrorist Organization) or a SDGT (Specially Designated Global Terrorist). Giving money to an organization with either of these designations is a crime.
However, zakat (alms-giving) is a requirement of the Muslim faith. Therefore, devout followers have found new outlets for their charitable giving. Many Muslims now choose to donate their time and resources to local initiatives, often anonymously.
To learn more about how CAAP can conduct due-diligence on your behalf to ensure organizations you wish to support are in good standing with the IRS and Department of Treasury and safe to contribute to, please visit our website.