How can one start a non-profit organization?

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.

• Answer:

  You first file your Articles of Incorporation as a non profit with your Secretary of State. Once you get that you can apply with the IRS for your 501C3 certification. I have found a website that compiles various resources on starting a non profit. I especially like the Minnesota Council of NonProfits because the site gives information on governance, developing strategic alliances, fund raising and other ingredients of successfully running a non profit. http://www.lib.msu.edu/harris23/grants/znpbib.htm As for funding your non profit, I suggest you check out Foundation Center to help you gain ideas on how to properly establish your organization and get support from private foundations. They have the most extensive database of private donors, and they publish a magazine that can be very helpful to your new non profit. http://fdncenter.org/getstarted/tutorials/establish/index.html I was previously involved in the setup of a non profit, and we were able to get a pro-bono lawyer who set up everything for us, including getting the 501c3 tax status. Contact other non profits in your area and check if there are lawyers willing to work for free to get you started. For detailed information on how to start a non profit, I suggest you read the following books: - Starting and Running a Nonprofit Organization -- by Joan M. Hummel - Starting and Running a Non-Profit Made Easy by Entrepreneur Press, David H. Bangs - Starting & Building A Nonprofit: A Practical Guide by Peri Pakroo