You’ve identified a need in the community. You want to give something back to society. You’ve talked to a few people and they think you have a great idea. You need to be able to receive tax-deductible donations or solicit grants from corporations and foundations. You’ve had experience in other organizations and want to form a new one to fill an unmet need. These are only a few of the many possible reasons for forming a non-profit, charitable organization. You may have even started the process, only to hit a few bumps in the road or come up with questions that need answering. Or maybe the whole idea seems daunting: Which state government agency do you need to talk to? Can’t you go straight to the IRS? What forms and reports have to be filed every year? And above all: Will forming a new organization be the most effective way to reach your goal?

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Now is the perfect time to take a step back. Remember that what first energized you was a specific need, problem to solve, or issue that you felt needed attention. You are looking for the best way to work on this issue. That is really your goal—and the foundation for moving ahead.

 

There are a number of important issues to keep in mind as you decide what the most effective medium will be to reach your goal. You’ll need to know what a non-profit is, some of the legal advantages and disadvantages of forming a non-profit, some of the requirements for forming and sustaining a non-profit, and alternatives to forming a new organization. And, if you are a house of worship, or a faith based organization, there are some specific questions that apply to you and not to others. 

 

Although we typically focus on 501(c)(3) organizations, there are many other types of non-profits as well. It's important to always consult with an appropriate professional to review your own particular circumstances. That's where we can help.

We offer a free consultation to those looking to start a nonprofit. Our goal in working with you is to answer basic questions about what a non-profit is and how to form one as well as portray a realistic picture of what is involved in getting a new non-profit up and running.

 

Consider this your first step in determining if a new charitable non-profit corporation is the best way for your group to reach its goal.

 

The second step is your own further research into your community, the need, and the legal and administrative issues you'll need to tackle to keep your nonprofit up and running once it's been started.

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And, after talking with us, if you decide you can tackle the start-up process yourself, you'll be better prepared to do just that. Or, you can ask us to handle the whole thing for you, and we'll do it for an unbelievably low cost. Either way, if you join our community, you will have access to all the tools and resources you need to move your new nonprofit forward.