How do you start your own charity?

Question

I mean like, where do you start?

Answer 1

The IRS website is really pretty helpful.  In particular, take a look at IRS publication 557, entitled Tax Exempt Status for Your Organization, available here:

http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p557.pdf

The charities section of the IRS website has lots of other useful information.  The link appears as the source, below.

There might also be an organization in your area that provides free legal assistance to nonprofits that are starting up.  You can check with the state bar in your state--if there is a group that is helping out, they should be able to refer you to them.

Answer 2

go to the website irs.gov and search under non profits.  All the necessary information is available.

Answer 3

You start by figuring out exactly what you want to accomplish.  Maybe you don't need a new charity; perhaps it would be more efficient to work w/organizations already established.  There are fewer expenses that way.

I started The ShoeBox Project <www.ShoeBoxProject.org> because I wanted to assist kids & moms in need in my county.  I started just by decorating discarded shoeboxes & filling them w/age-appropriate toiletries, school supplies, small toys & games.  We grew because I identified needs through existing social service agencies.  Working through them there was no need for screening of recipients & no overhead.

Just as in science, it is important to 1st accurately identify the problem--then you can figure out the correct solution.  Good luck!