How do I start a nonprofit foundation?

Question

I had a dream a couple of years ago about the animals of the earth telling me that their habitat has been maimed and destroyed. Then these animals (lemurs, elephants, bats, tigers...) said, "We want your help now. We Want Our Earth Back!"
It has haunted me since and I'd like to start a foundation called We Want Our Earth Back and preserve land for animals.
Has anyone had any experience with this sort of thing?
Thanks.

Answer 1

there are several steps to turning your vision into reality.



1.) document your vision, prepare a concept paper, initial strategic/business plan

2.) assemble co-founders/ initial board members

3.) (get an atty.!!!) formally incorporate, file bylaws, articles, get a tax id #, file for 501c3 tax exempt status with the IRS

4.) do something to create a track-record

5.) seek funding, grants and individual donations

6.) repeat steps 4 & 5 over and over and over

Answer 2

The first step is to create a board of directors that will first be responsible for drafting the mission, vision and bylaws of your new foundation.



You will want to have an accountant on your board as well as people with the experience and expertise needed to fullfill your initial vision.



If you want to be "non-profit" you will need to file for 501(c) status with the IRS. There are many types of 501(c)'s based on type of nonprofit you are creating. Most people are familiar with charitable organizations known as 501(c)3's.



Non-profit does not mean tax-exempt. Filing for tax-exempt status is an entirely different process and equally time consuming.



You can find useful information about filing for 501(c) status at this web link:

http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/index.html



Good luck.

Answer 3

You need to hire an attorney and an accountant. Do this wrong, and not only will your organization fail but you can end up owing beaucoup money to the IRS. You PERSONALLY end up owing the money, not a good outcome. Spend a little, save a lot.