M ABC ⋅ New York, NY NA ⋅ 1 years experience

Hi Larry,

I started a not-for-profit myself a few years ago and it's quite a lot of work. To form a 501(C)3 organization (which is what you would have to do), you'll have to go through several steps with the federal government and the IRS. The whole process takes some time and there are lots of forms involved. You'll have to choose and file a name, file articles of organization, create bi-laws, file for federal and state tax exemption, etc. There are fees associated with this as well.

I got help from Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLANY.org) here in New York. There is no VLA in Memphis, but they do list this organization, which may be able to help you:

Arts & Business Council of Greater Nashville
211 Commerce Street, Suite 100,
Nashville, TN 37201
tel: (615) 460 8274
fax: (615) 743-3002
info@abcnashville.org
http://www.abcnashville.org/

If you are unsure of how to best proceed at this point, you might want to start off researching other local organizations first and volunteering or working with them. That way your skills and ideas can be put to good use right away. It might also help you form more of a long term idea of what kind of organization you really want to create, if that's the way you decide to go.

Best of luck to you!
Melissa

Elise Morris ⋅ Northport, NY Self-Employed ⋅ 35 years experience

Larry, I don't have much experience in non-profits but I know there is a wealth of knowledge out there about the nuts and bolts of setting them up. If you are looking to establish and after-school program, in addition to learning the non-profits, contact the local PTA groups to find out how the school districts partner with non-profits. Maybe they will have a contact for you.

Mostly I wanted to send you positive support. This is a terrific idea and one that would bring great value to the community. I wish you all the best.

Joe McGrath ⋅ Peoria, AZ U.S. Army, Specialist ⋅ 4 years served

If you want the ability to run like a full blown 501c3 without finalizing all of the leg work you can start by getting a fiscal sponsorship from an existing 501c3. I have used the alliance for global justice as a sponsor and it worked out great. I had full freedom of movement even fundraising and all the the legalities were handled by our much larger counterpart. From there I would suggest asking for donations in the form of equipment instead of cash. I believe materials are much easier to get and just as easy to write off on taxes for the donator. Godspeed and Good luck

Michael Del Vecchio ⋅ Killingworth, CT U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant ⋅ 3 years served

Hi Larry,

Check out SCORE, web site here - https://www.score.org/. I am a member, have helped several people start up NPO's, also served on several NPO boards.

Barbara Stern ⋅ Boulder, CO Affordable Closets,llc ⋅ 35 years experience

Using the assumption that you know there is a need for this kind of after school program, I would research what engineering, software development, and internet companies to discover their specialties. Network your way into meeting people who may share your vision and establish an ad hoc Board of Advisors.
You will need to create by-laws and make application for non-profit status. I believe others may have shared their experiences above.

Jennifer Polhemus ⋅ Santa Monica, CA Precision Research (self-employed) ⋅ 25 years experience

Partnering is the key to success (for many enterprises, but especially for non-profits). Connect with the City and/or the school district and show them 1) evidence of need and 2) how your idea fills that need. Then work toward a pilot at one site. You don't need your own 501c3 at this stage. Find another 501c3 and partner with them, as a co-sponsor of your proposal. Check out https://www.fracturedatlas.org to grasp the concept.

Larry Jointer ⋅ Memphis, TN U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant ⋅ 13 years served

Let me say Thank You to all who have responded, I can't wait to follow the idea's that I have already received from you all. The AdvisorNet seems to be a great tool to have am glad I found it. I will keep in touch with you all and I hope I can help someone as you have helped me. May God continue to walk with us all.