Starting a charity might seem like a big dream, but if you’re passionate about helping others, it can be a really rewarding path. If you’re ready to take on this commitment, start by getting really clear on your mission and core values. Once you have that nailed down, you can start putting together the details of how you’re going to operate. And if you need help along the way, we’re here with the answers you need to get up and running!
StepsQuestion 1Question 1 of 9:How do I set up a charity?
1Start by writing a mission statement that summarizes your goals. Write out a short, clear description of what your organization will do, who you’ll help, why your goals are important, and how you’re going to reach them. This is your mission statement—use it to help guide you and keep you on track as you get deeper into the planning process. Then, review it regularly as you operate your nonprofit to make sure you’re staying true to your original vision.XYou’ll use your mission statement will to inform potential donors, state and federal officials, board members, and volunteers of the purpose for your charity.The nonprofit Feeding America has a great example of a short but thorough mission statement: “Our mission is to advance change in America by ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for all in partnership with food banks, policymakers, supporters, and the communities we serve.”X
2Create a detailed business plan for how to achieve your mission. In your business plan, explain your strategy for your first 5 years of operation, including how you’ll make money, how you’ll spend it, and how you plan to operate. Be as specific as possible when you’re writing this out. Consider including things like:XWhat you’re trying to accomplishA conservative estimate of what you expect to earn from fundraisersPlan B if your source of income changesHow much you’ll pay any staff membersThe role your board members will play in the organizationStrategies for attracting new donorsHow you’ll measure your progress toward meeting your goalsXQuestion 2Question 2 of 9:What kind of charity should I start?
1Choose something you’re really passionate about. Running a charity is a big undertaking, so you need to be dedicated to your cause. If you could change anything about the world, what would it be—and how would you do that?XIf you’re upset by the sight of your town’s crumbling downtown area, you might start a charity to raise funds locally to restore some of those buildings.If you know of a loved one who’s suffering from a rare disorder, you might feel led to start a charity to raise money to help people with that disorder pay for their medical bills.You might also create a charity that supports the arts, wildlife conservation, animal rescue, disaster relief, or people in need.X
2Come up with an angle that will make your organization unique. There are a lot of other nonprofits out there, and if you’re doing the same type of work as someone else, you’ll have more competition for donors who care about that cause. Try to find your own angle for whatever you do—if you want to help the homeless population in your area and there are already organizations dedicated to providing food and shelter to people without housing, you might start a charity to collect clothing, instead.XIf you’re passionate about helping something that overlaps with other charities, come up with unique fundraising ideas that will help you stand out. For instance, the ice bucket challenge was a viral campaign by the ALS Association that raised money for research into ALS.XQuestion 3Question 3 of 9:What should I name my charity?
1Go with a name that clearly explains your mission. It should be something simple and easy to remember. Also, pick something unique—you don’t want donors to get you confused with anyone else who’s doing similar work.XFor instance, if you’re forming an animal rescue, you might name it something like, “Carrington Wildlife Rescue.”Check with the Department of Commerce where you live to make sure you’re not using a name that’s already taken.XKeep in mind that you may not be legally allowed to include certain words in your name, like “Bank,” “Federal,” or “Insurance.”X
2You might also consider naming your charity after a person. Some donors might find your cause more personal and relatable if you name the organization after a notable person in the field you’re working in. You could name it after yourself or your family, someone who was affected by the issue you’re trying to overcome, or a generous donor.XFor instance, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation was named for the founder’s sister, who died of breast cancer at the age of 36.XQuestion 4Question 4 of 9:How do I register a charity in the US?
1Work with legal and financial experts to navigate the paperwork. To register as a charity, you’ll need to gain 501(c)(3) status, meaning you’ll have tax-exempt status with the IRS. This is a pretty complicated process with a lot of red tape, so it’s best to hire an attorney who specializes in nonprofit law, as well as an accountant who has experience incorporating 501(c)(3)s.X However, you can find the paperwork here if you’d like to check it out: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/application-process.In addition to registering with the IRS, you’ll need to file paperwork to incorporate your charity with your state.XOnce you’ve been incorporated as a 501(c)(3), you’ll need to apply for your Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN). To do this, fill out IRS form SS-4—your accountant will give you more information on how to do this.XYour lawyer and accountant will also be able to advise you on the ongoing paperwork you’ll need to file to stay in compliance once your organization is running.Question 5Question 5 of 9:How much does it cost to start a charity?
1You’ll need to raise enough money to cover all the expenses for a year. This includes all of your startup and administrative costs, so you might have to do a good bit of fundraising before you even get up and running. However, it’s good motivation to keep your operating costs low—and that’s a good practice to follow, even if the organization becomes really successful later.XIt can cost close to $1000 to file for your 501(c)(3), but you’ll also need to pay your accountant and attorney—those fees might be anywhere from $2000-$4000 initially.X You’ll also need to find and supply your office space, and you may need additional permits and licenses from your city or state.XOnce your startup costs are out of the way, only about 20% of your charity’s expenses should go toward administration and fundraising. The rest should be dedicated to your main cause.Question 6Question 6 of 9:How do charities make money?
1Your primary income will come from fundraising. To keep your organization running, you’ll need to reach out to donors, have fundraising events, and spread awareness about your organization online. This can take a lot of energy, but it’s really the heartbeat of your organization. When you’re doing this, it can help if you keep your mind on your reason for starting the charity in the first place.XPopular charity fundraisers include marathons, galas, silent auctions, dinner parties, golf tournaments, art sales, and charity concerts.XTrustworthy SourceCancer Research UKU.K.-based cancer research and advocacy charityGo to sourceTo raise money online, use your website and social media pages, make YouTube videos about your mission, issue press releases, or start a GoFundMe campaign.XBe sure to talk to your accountant or attorney before you start fundraising—there might be laws in your area that impact what you can do.
2You can also apply for grants. Research organizations that support charities similar to yours, and look for every grant opportunity you can. When you’re applying for grants, really emphasize what makes your charity unique, how you’re working to further your cause, and how you’ll use the money you receive.XIf writing isn’t your strong suit, consider hiring a writer who can help you with your grant applications—the better you can show how well you fit the requirements, the more likely you’ll be to get approved!Try looking for grants through websites like https://www.grants.govQuestion 7Question 7 of 9:Can I run a nonprofit by myself?
1No, you’ll typically need a Board of Directors to help manage things. In many places, in fact, you’ll be legally required to establish a board in order to operate as a charity.X Your board should be made up of people who are experienced in fundraising and running a charity.X The board will be responsible for establishing committees to handle decision-making, managing the charity’s finances, and steering the direction of the nonprofit as a whole.XAs the CEO of your nonprofit, you’ll typically sit on the board—but to avoid a conflict of interest, it may be best if you have a non-voting role. The Board of Directors will oversee your position, including your salary and your job duties.XYou might also choose to have an Advisory Board made up of knowledgeable volunteers. The Advisory Board doesn’t make formal decisions for the nonprofit, but it can make recommendations to the Board of Directors about things like fundraising, hiring decisions, and outreach.X
2You’ll also need volunteers. Volunteers are an essential part of any charitable organization. They’ll help with things like administrative duties, organizing and running fundraisers and events, and spreading the word about your mission. Remember, they’re donating their time to help your cause, so treat your volunteers with respect—consider showing your appreciation by feeding them when they spend the day helping your organization, giving them free T-shirts, and recognizing them on social media or your website. Question 8Question 8 of 9:Can the founder of a nonprofit receive a salary?
1Yes, you can be paid for your work. As a nonprofit owner, you’ll typically have to put in long hours. You don’t necessarily have to volunteer your time, though; you can build a salary into your operating costs.X It has to be considered fair compensation, meaning you can’t just pay yourself as much as you want—there’s no set amount, but it’s a good idea to check with your accountant and lawyer to make sure your salary wouldn’t be considered excessive for the work you do, or your whole organization will be penalized.XTo be in compliance with the IRS, your salary will need to be reviewed by your Board of Directors or a committee that they establish—you can’t just determine it yourself.Question 9Question 9 of 9:How do I get attention for my nonprofit?
1Focus on your website first. Your website is a really important tool for raising awareness and attracting potential donors. Create an “About Us” page that clearly describes your mission and what you’re doing to reach your goals. Keep your website up-to-date with information about upcoming events, recent accomplishments, and how potential volunteers can help.XWhen you’re building your webpage, be sure to include a place where people can donate directly from your site.
2Increase awareness on social media. Stay active on your social media pages—get the word out about any upcoming fundraisers, share posts from similar organizations, and interact with your followers. That way, your social media—and therefore your organization as a whole—will continuously grow.X
