Q&A for How to Start a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization

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How do I choose a good mission for a nonprofit?

Carmela Resuma, MPP
Non-Profit Executive Director
Carmela is the Executive Director of FLYTE, a non-profit organization headquartered in Georgetown, Texas that empowers students living in underserved communities through transformative travel experiences. Carmela has a Masters in Public Policy Analysis from New York University and is passionate about youth empowerment, social impact, and traveling.

Carmela Resuma, MPP

Non-Profit Executive Director

Expert Answer

Ask what the community needs and make sure the nonprofit helps fill that need. Nonprofits serve needs that are not yet met. A lot of the innovative work coming out of nonprofits is about building up communities and empowering people. Nonprofits help serve people, and that really does help make the world a better place!

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Question

Is there such a thing as a "mini nonprofit," like if I raise less than $5,000 a year? And, if so, how do I file for this status?

Community Answer

If you bring in less than $10 K per year you don't have to file for a 501(c)3 and you can still accept tax deductible donations.

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Question

Do officers of the corporation need to be US citizens?

Community Answer

No they don't.

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Question

Are there any companies that will start my non-profit for me?

Community Answer

Most likely not. However, you may be able to find a small business that's willing to help you set up your non-profit if it's relevant to their business since it would give them some good PR.

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Question

How do I find out if my non profit organization idea already exists?

Community Answer

Check out nonprofitlist.org and select the state you live in from the drop down menu.

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Question

Do I need a commercial address in order to create a 501(c)(3) nonprofit?

Community Answer

No, but it would be best to have an alternate address for your main corporation. I doubt anyone wants public business to follow them home.

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Question

How do I start a non-profit helping domestic violence victims?

Community Answer

Family courts have a department that answer victims' calls and processes/issues TPO's; I would recommend volunteering as a hotline operator here. This will give you valuable insight and experience as well as make you aware of which specific areas have the greatest needs. DV prevention is often a government funded initiative that sponsors both public and private sectors, so "it's wise to familiarize" yourself with all the different aspects of each office, what they maintain, who they represent, and what role they play, thus gaining an even clearer picture of what's lacking in the community. That would be an excellent place to start!

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Question

How do you get a grant for your nonprofit organization?

Community Answer

You write a proposal and submit that to the proper authority. It will contain by laws, board of directors information, a projected yearly budget, etc.

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Question

I wish to start a horse and dog rescue on my property.How do I get started?

Community Answer

Make leaflets letting people know what you're doing and to help them get involved and your rescue should start to grow.

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Question

Should an art group that shares art techniques, art seminars and promotes their artists become a nonprofit organization?

Community Answer

It is possible, but whether you choose to depends on what the aims are and how serious the group is. If you plan to spend significant money on promoting the group and its members, the 501(c)(3) status will help you, if only to save on sales tax.

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