Have you always dreamed of starting an organization to help others?
Do you have vision and passion, but, lack the “know how?’
See a need in your community but don’t know where to begin?
Let me give you a few simple steps that you can make your dream of starting a non-profit organization a reality!
What is your mission?
With everything in life, you have to start with your mission! A clearly defined mission statement is an absolute must! A mission statement answers such questions as “Why does your nonprofit need to exist?” “Who will you serve?” What will you actually do?”
Don’t be deceived. Creating a mission statement sounds easy, but, it is one of the most difficult, but, yet important things you must create for your new group.
With a solid mission statement in place, you now need to move on to the more technical things.
If you want to raise money then you will have to obtain tax deductible status if and only if you serve some charitable, religious, educational, scientific or literary purpose benefiting the public. In addition, you will also need to incorporate as a nonprofit through filing articles of incorporation and establishing by-laws.
Who is going to do the work of your great group?
Is it going to be staff, volunteers, or a combination of both?
Since there is so much to do and many non-profits start out with limited staffing, volunteers become critical to your success.
Do you have a budget? Where will you get funding from?
While you can get money from programs and services, fundraising in a non-profit organization is absolutely critical and essential. This is one of the more over-looked areas of starting up a non-profit organization. When it comes to fundraising, don’t wait until it’s too late.
You have dream and a vision, now you have some know-how. Starting a non-profit organization IS hard work. But, if you are up to making it happen, the rewards are so great. Put your commitment and passion to work meeting the needs of others.
