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How does one officially create a non-profit organization?

How does a teenager start a nonprofit organization?

  • A few days ago, I heard from my boyfriend that three of his kittens got put down because they found out that there were tumors in the back of their brains(this happened because their mommy drank bad water from a certain river) and that the vets would not cure them because no one has the money to pay for it. So they rather kill the poor innocent little ones instead. I was thinking, why do we human have the decision to choose rather they live or not? Why such innocent ones have to go through such a tragic life? I personally love animals so much and it disgusts me how some people would choose money over a precious life. Many wealthy people out there spend their money on unnecessary things while they can easily help out the ones in need. Not just the animals, the poor human as well. Since they do not want to help, I really want to do something for those who desperately need help and struggle to survive. I planned to volunteer at a local animal shelter so I took a visit there today and in those few minutes I was there I already witnessed over 5 animals being brought in by people. But in the shelter I can only see a few animals and I was thinking what happened to all the other ones? It kills me knowing that most likely they got put down because the people who works for the animal shelter probably just don't even care and they are there just for the money. When I went to see each cat and dog, the way they look at you can make you tear up right away. They got locked up in the cage, having not much to do and no one to love them. It just really hurts me to see that AND knowing that there are still tons of other stray animals out there. So I really really would love to create a nonprofit organization for these animals who need help. But I have NO CLUE on what to do to possibly do this. I am only 16 and my parents cannot help me on this because they do not know much nor do I know who to talk to at my school. So please if anyone know please tell me any ideas I really need help. I would appreciate it. Thanks.

  • Answer:

    There is much more to this than you think. First of all, you must be an adult to do it. No, your mommy can't do it for you. A nonprofit is a corporation, just like McDonald's, or General Motors, or Sears. You establish the corporation in your home state the same way, THEN you apply to the IRS for tax exempt status under section 501.c.3 of the IRS code. Then you apply to your state for a solicitation license. Without that license, you MAY NOT ask the public for money. If you do, you will pay $1,000 fine AND spend a year in jail FOR EACH OFFENSE. Even if you do organize legally, you have to file forms with the IRS every year, detailing your finances. Yes, dear, even when you're tax exempt, the IRS still gets into your life. Your state will also have rules and procdures. There are THOUSANDS of other regulations. Ten percent of the American work force is EMPLOYED by nonprofits. That means you have to withhold TAXES from YOUR paycheck. Yes, dear, employees of nonprofits do pay taxes, just like everyone else. Find an organization that is already doing what you want.. Volunteer. Learn. Maybe you can go to college for nonprofit management.

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Duuudeee! I'm a teenager too, and I've been trying to figure out these exact same things! But I'd suggest starting by doing something small, like say a car wash. And tell people what your trying to do with the money you raise, becuase by doing that they'll be willing to donate more. As you make more money for the organization, you'll be able to do bigger things in order to raise more money... Goodluck! :)

Ali

set up a fundraising page online and give the money to the animals:) x

Jenny xx

Actually, I have several friends who work at the animal shelter and believe me, they would not work there if they didn't have the same convictions that you have. Why they are having to put the animals down is because there are not enough funds to keep them there forever. If you call a local CPA or accountant, they will tell you that it takes alot of time and alot of money to start such a program. The best thing you could do for them is start raising money yourself and contribute those funds to the shelters. This will help with buying food and necessary medicines and supplies that they need there. Become an advocate for the shelters and ask them what their greatest needs are and start collecting for them at that point. Ask your local merchants if you could set up and collect funds or supplies outside their businesses. If you're going to raise funds or supplies for the shelters, it would be to your advantage to work very closely with the director of the shelters. Be sure to have approval first and foremost from your parents. It helps when they are onboard with your projects. Good luck.

Nan

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