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Non-profit ownership and business. How does one go about trying to start a non-profit. Exploring career avenues?

Veteran

darren fuller Nitro, WV

Wanting to pursue a non-profit approach to helping those in need of crisis response? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated?
Thank you.

14 June 2020 3 replies Career Exploration

Answers

Advisor

Vicki Lightcap Bally, PA

First thank for your service. Depending what type of non profit you are planning needs to be the first decision. A source to help with that decision is offered through your local SCORE or SBA centers. They will have the free resources and can provide guidance for set up and filing of the application based on the state this entity would be located. There are also VA small business organizations in your state that could provide a starting point. Wish you the best!

Advisor

Jennifer Polhemus Santa Monica, CA

Would you consider taking your passion to an existing nonprofit? I say this because the administrative costs (time and $) for a nonprofit are pretty significant, and it's more efficient, in terms of addressing social needs, to join an existing organization. From there you will gain the experience and even contacts to begin a nonprofit someday.

Also, successful nonprofits today are all about partnering, and it's great to partner with an existing nonprofit.

And check out the publications here https://store.nolo.com/products/nonprofits.

Onward!

Advisor

Andrea Bryant New York, NY

Hi Darren,

Thank you so much for your service, and thank you for wanting to continue that in another area with a nonprofit! As I am sure you are already well aware, starting a nonprofit is no small undertaking. The first place I would go to would be the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance. They have an office in Charleston, which, according to Google Maps, is close to you in Nitro.

Just about every state has its own Veterans Affairs, Services, etc. which exist to assist its veterans with claims, both state and federal, and provide additional services. This varies from state to state, but many such offices have additional support like small business advice classes. I would inquire at Charleston to see what they have, or if they can suggest other resources for more guided support.

All the best to you on your undertaking, and please let us know if you have other questions!

Best,

Andrea

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