The vision statement: Charting the Future
A vision statement is a declaration of an organization's ultimate, long-term objective. It is the "North Star" that guides all strategic decisions, painting a vivid picture of the ideal future the organization aims to create. This statement is aspirational, inspirational, and meant to articulate the highest goal—what the world will look like if the organization succeeds in its purpose. It answers the fundamental question: "What do we want to achieve?"
The mission statement: Defining the Present
A mission statement acts as an operational compass, describing the organization's current purpose, its primary functions, and how it serves its stakeholders. It outlines what the organization does, who it does it for, and how it does it, grounding the aspirational vision in present-day reality. This statement is practical and action-oriented, providing a clear roadmap that explains how the organization will progress toward its future vision. It answers the question: "What are we doing now to make our vision a reality?"
Step 1: Foundational Questions
Before writing, answer these key questions to define your organization's core.
Identity: Who are we?
Purpose: What specific needs do we exist to meet?
Strategy: How will we recognize and respond to these needs?
Stakeholders: How will we serve our key community members and partners?
Values: What principles guide our actions and culture?
Uniqueness: What makes our organization distinctive?
Step 2: Developing Your Vision Statement
Use these principles to guide the creation of your vision.
Involve Diverse Voices: Include members with different perspectives to create a shared, unifying goal for the community.
Be Inclusive: Write a broad vision that welcomes everyone and avoids a narrow focus.
Stay Flexible: Create a vision that is inspiring yet able to adapt to future changes and growth.
Step 3: Developing Your Mission Statement
Your mission statement should clearly answer the following questions.
Who do we serve? (Identify the people you benefit.)
What do we provide? (State your specific services or programs.)
How do we provide it? (Describe your methods and approach.)
Why do we provide it? (Explain the ultimate purpose and impact of your work.)
How does it reflect our values? (Ensure the mission aligns with your core principles.)
We are a community of Muslims.
A dedicated place for worship and religious education.
A vibrant hub for activities, programs, and community services.
A strong, supportive, and united Muslim community.
Positive engagement with the non-Muslim community.
Build a strong organization focused on inclusion and accountability.
Foster a community built on unity and brotherhood.
Develop and expand programs and services for all.
Promote interfaith dialogue to share the values of Islam and build understanding.
Serve the needs of both the Muslim and the greater non-Muslim communities.
Implement strategic planning with clear goals for the future.
Advocate for the rights of Muslims.
Establish comprehensive educational programs, including part-time and full-time Islamic schooling.
Compassion
Justice & Equality
Brotherhood
Service
Engagement
Examples of mission and vision statements (from existing masjids in the US):
A place to worship and practice Islam
Safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment
According to the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him)
To increase the knowledge and spirituality of Muslims
To build and serve a strong Muslim community
To unify Muslims' efforts and communities
To convey the message of Islam to Non-Muslims
To install Islamic values and the appreciation of them
To contribute to society
To clear the misunderstanding of Islam
To build bridges of communication
To demonstrate the effectiveness of Islam in today’s world
To pursue freedom and justice in a peaceful and caring way