4Real Forums: Non Profit Organizations

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Gloria JMJ
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Posted: Dec 15 2009 at 4:50pm \| IP Logged

Have any of you ever started a non profit? How is it done? How much does it cost? Anything else? Thanks!

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stellamaris
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Posted: Dec 15 2009 at 5:33pm \| IP Logged

I have been involved in two start-ups of non-profits, one from scratch and one an existing organization that changed from profit to non-profit status. It takes about 6 months or more to have the IRS approve your 501c3 status. I'm not sure how much it costs (I'm thinking $300-$500, but that could be way off, as I did not do the actual applying, I was just on the boards), but I know that you have to have your organization pretty well set up before applying. If my memory serves me, they ask for the names of your board members, which means you need at least a set of by-laws and probably also need to be incorporated in your state. One other consideration is securing insurance for your board members...if anyone sues the non-profit the individual board members could be liable. So you definitely want to have that protection in order to get a good board.

We started a pregnancy center. We had an accountant volunteer her services. I believe most of the legal work was standard forms and the IRS application is a standard form. We did have "seed" money from generous local pro-life donors even before we received our non-profit status. The non-profit designation is retroactive for one year (or maybe even 18 mos.), so any donors in that window can still deduct their contributions once you receive your official non-profit status.

You need to think long-term about your goals and about your fund-raising options. You will need to file taxes yearly for the organization. Your board should be selected with an eye to having some of the expertise you need represented...an accountant and a lawyer can save you LOTS of money down the road.

Be aware that even in Christian non-profits there can be conflicts that arise. Be sure to be consistent in prayer. If your non-profit is a pro-life or pro-family organization, the Enemy will certainly try to derail you, and you will find that prayer is absolutely most necessary.

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stellamaris
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Posted: Dec 15 2009 at 5:37pm \| IP Logged

I found these tips on how to start a non-profit online, and they look pretty complete. Also, there was a link to a service that will complete the 501c3 application form for $349, so my cost estimate is probably pretty close. HTH!

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Caroline
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Maddie
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Posted: Dec 15 2009 at 5:53pm \| IP Logged

I did this many, many moons ago and don't remember much now. One thing I do remember however, is that you can use up to 5% of your 501(c)3 income towards lobbying if the political issue affects your organization. Seems like there is something you have to check off on the forms. It's pretty fuzzy now, it's been at least 15 years since I did it and the laws may have changed.

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