(ThyBlackMan.com) When starting a charitable non-profit organization, your venture will take you down many paths. However, anybody can learn how to start a charity organization, fund it and be able to run it successfully. The first step to having a successful charity organization is by determining what you want to do that is charitable. From there, the next step is filling out the papers and funding it in order for it to run successfully. Most folks who want to start a charity organization become frustrated after a few hours of searching on the internet. Here are a few simple but effective steps you can use:
7 steps on how to start a charity.
- Begin by creating articles of Incorporation for your non-profit organization and then file them in the state where you plan to be doing business.
- Create the business By-Laws. They are meant to govern the organization.
- Apply to get an Employer’s Identification Number (EIN)
- Since your business is non-profit, you will be required to fill the IRS form 1023 in order to be exempted from paying taxes. Filling this form most of the time requires a legal assistance since it is a bit tricky and complex for most people.
- After filling the form 1023, remember to file it with the IRS.
- Familiarize yourself with some of the best ways to raise funds and experiment on the best methods that can work for you. Consider also joining an accrediting organization for instance BBB.
Now that you know how to start a charity, the next big thing is to know how to accomplish its goals.
- To begin with, one of the complex parts of starting a charity is learning how to come up with a strategy to obtain funds
through donations. This involves developing fundraisers who are focused on getting donations from certain individuals, corporations or families. Another way to source for funds for your charity is through application for grants from funding organizations. All these ways are significant in developing funds and they can bring a long a wealth of funding into your nonprofit organization. - Another critical step that you should keep in mind in order to be successful is to set up some charitable activities. A charity organization is not limited to the activities it can run. Therefore, you can have many running at the same time. Ideally, choose programs that focus on different areas to those you are planning to help.
- Lastly, for your charity organization to run successfully, there are three major activities that you need to do and balance them at the same time. They include successful implementation of your charity programs, continued fundraising and impact to the community. If you balance these three things, then you will be guaranteed that you will have a continued flow of funds to help you achieve your mission. Remember each journey starts with a mission.
When creating your charity organization, you might also consider creating the following things:
- Set up a social network to connect with other individuals who might share the same passion as you.
- Create a business plan. It will help you measure your objectives and goals.
- Develop a website to help you promote yourself to others. You can do this by creating promotional material where other people can learn more about you and your business and also what motivates you.
If you follow this simple guide, you will have an easy time starting your charity organization and continue to make an impact to those around you and the rest of the world. Remember, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Staff Writer; Travis Moore