There is an active DHS investigation going on right now that involves that building, so I might reach out to them.
@bauber Does this sound legal to you? Their EIN does not show up on the IRS search tool. This is the explanation they gave me. The Maine Community Foundation clearly called “Generational Noor” a nonprofit, and it was the only one of the 29 recipients not incorporated as a 501(c)(3).
how Generational Noor is set up to legally do the work we do.
1. We have an official IRS EIN number
We applied for and received an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS — this is like a Social Security Number for organizations. It legally identifies Generational Noor as a real, operating entity.�Our EIN is: 88-3950199�This is the first required step to operate as an organization, open a bank account, apply for grants, and report taxes properly.�
You’ll see this in the first screenshot of our confirmation from the IRS.
2. We operate under a Fiscal Sponsorship with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
We are fiscally sponsored by the Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition (MIRC), which is a fully recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
This means:
-
MIRC is our legal nonprofit “umbrella.”
-
They allow us to receive tax-deductible donations and grants under their name.
-
They handle financial oversight, compliance, and make sure we follow nonprofit laws.
-
We are legally allowed to operate as a nonprofit program under their supervision.
This is an extremely common structure for newer or community-based organizations — it’s how a lot of nonprofits start before becoming independent 501(c)(3)s.
You’ll see this explained in the signed Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement between Generational Noor and MIRC. It includes all the legal responsibilities, financial policies, and the work we are authorized to do.
3. What this means for our community and funders
-
We can legally receive grant funding, public donations, and sponsorships.
-
We are held accountable — by MIRC and by funders — to show how every dollar is spent.
-
We report our activities, finances, and outcomes regularly.
-
We do not hide anything. Our work is transparent, documented, and always aligned with our mission to serve youth and families facing gun violence, substance use, and mental health challenges.
Why Do Some Fund Records Say “Generational Noor” and Not “MIRC”?
Because people have asked — here’s a transparent explanation:
Even though Generational Noor is fiscally sponsored by MIRC, we are the ones who apply for and do the actual work for the programs, events, and community efforts. So when we receive funding, especially in public award announcements, funders often list Generational Noor as the recipient because:
-
We are the ones who applied.
-
The work is being carried out by our team.
-
The program, project, or initiative is under the name of Generational Noor.
It’s just like if a school club gets a grant but the money goes through the school’s bank account — the club is still credited, even though it’s run under the school.
But how is the funding processed legally?
Here’s what happens step-by-step:
-
Funding is awarded to MIRC as the 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor (they are the legal entity).
-
MIRC receives the funds and then immediately allocates them to Generational Noor for the approved purpose.
-
MIRC provides financial oversight, but the program name remains Generational Noor, because that’s who’s doing the work in the community.
So when you see Generational Noor listed as the recipient:
That just means we are the lead on the project or program being funded. It does not mean we are operating outside of MIRC. All funding still goes through our fiscal sponsor, who ensures:
Bottom line:
Even if a grant database, press release, or flyer says “Generational Noor received funding” — legally and operationally, it still goes through MIRC, and everything is managed within the rules of our fiscal sponsorship agreement.
We’re proud of our transparency and our partnership with MIRC. We have nothing to hide — only work to do.
So if you’re unsure—just ask.
We understand people want to know where funding goes, and we agree: accountability matters. But please, instead of making assumptions, reach out and have a conversation. We are proud of what we do and we’re always happy to explain it.
Visit us: 124 Canal Street, Suite 2, Lewiston, Maine�
Message us anytime — our door is open, even on weekends.
We’ve added these documents here so that anyone who wants to see the proof can see it for themselves. We don’t do this work for money or recognition—we do it because we love this community and believe in change.
With respect,�Generational Noor