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I would like to connect with you there also. I am trying to make more friends and fans so that I can spread awareness for breast cancer during pregnancy. I was diagnosed Stage 3 in the 5th month of my pregnancy in May. My status updates on Facebook and LinkedIn are usually about my fight.
You can become a fan of mine on Facebook here:
Facebook Natalie Regoli
You can connect with me on LinkedIn here:
LinkedIn Natalie Regoli
First of all I want to say it is wonderful that you are taking the time to make a difference. At age 15 you are already off to a great start. So many people here sharing their ideas to help you on your way. Best wishes on your journey. I am a mother of a 14 year old and as I read your request it was inspiring so I shared your page with my daughter. It is hopeful that she will feel less threatened to take a stand on something that is important to her and actually start a crisis hotline in our small town. Take care & keep in touch. Cindy
I am happy to help you sorting through the steps to start a non-profit.
Non Profits are classified as "501(c)3"s --(charities) for tax purposes and that's right where you start.
First, go to irs.gov, click on Charities & Non Profits.
Download the form AND directions for Form 1023 (Application for Non Profit Status). Read the 28 pages of instructions. First you read the rules, then you work backward to create your non-profit. I can't see what state you are from, but you need to contact your State's Department of Labor-business organizations-corporations-non profits.
(just google that) Your NP needs a name, you need at least one officer, You need Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws (examples should be on your State's website) to file with your state's Department of Labor/Corporations--get the rules for this too and read them carefully.
The Lession Here: Get the rules for state business laws and federal tax requirements. READ THEM CAREFULLY.
When you get to question 5i on the 1023, I would check it, bcus it allows the IRS to determine your eligibility. If you did all your homework, I'd wager they'd approve your application right away.
In solidarity,
Your sister vicci
p.s. this is not legal advise, only my experience benefiting you.
Thais mentioned the Maximized page...we are structuring a program to help each other in each of our endeavors. I hope you join us. She also mentioned your mother assisting you...sometimes matters such as starting a company and filling out state licensing can be a difficult, tiresome task, and the assistance of an adult can help expedite matters as children are not always permitted to do these things on their own. This is not a knock against your maturity or ability to handle matters yourself, but more a legal policy as their are liability issues in business to deal with.
There are many things you need to do to file a non profit, and we need to know where you are in this venture. There is state paperwork to apply for a no profit corporation, and then the 501 c(3) portion to consider, whether you want to apply for your own through the IRS or if you want to seek sponsorship under another groups. If you go to the Maximized site and note your project idea, needs and goals then we will be able to better assist you. I hope you join us, and if you need anything let me know. I started my non profit last year, and Thais has one as well. There are many women here who can and will help you. Just let us know where you are with your idea and what you need. Keep your chin up Haley...it is a long process, and it takes work, but you are a warrior and your are in good company. As you have seen in many of the other comments, these women are strong, intelligent and ready to help, so you will do just fine.
Take care!
Also, if your guidance counselor is supportive or even a teacher in your school, talk to them about your vision. If you can find an adult with experience to moderate things, the school may let you start a support group for your non profit.
Finally, there are many leaders on here and in life that can help you on your way to success. Don't limit yourself to one opinion, explore your options, and go with what feels right. You may have experience with the non profit you want to start, but I do a LOT of research on subjects. Once again, if you volunteer with a charity or not, they will usually have a lot of information that you can use to help you in your cause.
Just go to their website.
A great place to go for resources on starting a non profit (besides here) is Idealist.org
I love this community. On here you will find people of all ages and from all over the world making a difference. You can also join specific groups to what ever it is you want to start. You may end up sharing ideas with someone in Nepal. Make sure and let your parents see the site. Sorry, I AM a mom you know.
Nameste Haley.