|
|
| *Ostroff, Fair and Company>>>Government & Non-Profit |
How can I start a non profit organization, or get info on how to start one? |
I live in the state of florida and I want to start an after school program. I also want to collect food from local stores then past it out to the needy in my community. 1. prepare a concept paper that outlines the mission, vision and purpose of the organization. 2. assemble a group of individuals that will be the initial board of directors/ co-founders. Check with the Secretary of State's office in your state, there may be information on age and residency requirements. 3. contact an attorney who has experience in working with non-profit start-ups to prepare the articles of incorporation and by-laws. File these documents with the State of Florida. Also, apply for a tax ID number for the organization. 4. With the assistance of a qualified attorney, apply to the IRS for tax-exempt status (501c3 status). 5. Once you've obtained tax-exempt status, you can begin fund-raising. However, before seeking donations, I would try to utilize your available resources (human & financial) to undertake an activity that is related to your mission. This will help to establish a track-record and open doors to potential funders who will be more inclined to invest in your organization. 6. Document your successes and regularly communicate with contributors. Source(s): non-profit organizational management & community development consultant It is somewhat complicated to create a non profit organization. You should look at the IRS page for the life cycle of a non profit. You first have to create a 501(c)(3) organization. It is involved. http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,... It is pretty complicated. I would hire an attorney to set it up for you. If you don't handle things properly you can get in a world of trouble. You need to incorporate as a 501(c) (3). Look that up in Google and you will be on your way. Its a difficult process though (paperwork intensive) and generally it helps to have an attorney work with you on the paperwork. Good Luck! visit me at:http://www.lost.eu/52513 If you are just passing out food then and not money. Just do it. It would help however to have the ability to give tax credit to the donors. The IRS would be where to start for that. Perhaps you could start the program under the name of your church, using help from fellow church members. |
Finance Categories--Copyright/IP Policy--Contact Webmaster |