Start a Nonprofit Homeless Shelter
Anyone can be homeless at anytime. While most people can not fathom the idea of not having a roof over their head, regular food in their bellies, clothes on their back or a daily shower, millions of men, women and children suffer everyday with being homeless and lacking the daily blessings most people take for granted. The number of homeless people far outweighs the number of homeless shelters. Starting a homeless shelter, though admirable, is hard work and should not be taken on lightly.
Steps
- Prepare a mission statement. Clearly outline out your intentions, goals and services. This can be anywhere from a few sentences to a few pages. Write out what you want to provide, such as how many individuals you believe the shelter will house, or whether you will have other amenities such as career counseling, food pantry, pet assistance or therapy.
- Determine the type of nonprofit organization you wish to have. Nonprofit organizations have laws pertaining to each kind.
- Incorporating a nonprofit allows your homeless shelter to have its own legal entity. This gives your homeless shelter its own property and bank account, will carry on without you and separate you from liability. A board of directors is required with an incorporated nonprofit.
- Build a business plan. This expands on your mission statement to include a proposed budget and an expected annual budget.
- Choose a location for the homeless shelter. Consider the community and where the need lies. Rent, buy or request a place be donated. You will need a location and address to file appropriate paperwork.
- File to be tax exempt and tax deductible. Your homeless shelter will not have to pay taxes and individuals can claim donations on their taxes.
- Get a business license. Even a homeless shelter is considered a business and needs a license. Check with your local government for obtaining one.
- Consider using a fiscal sponsor to help with start up costs.
- Reach out to the community for additional sponsorship. Contact the local churches, charities and other nonprofit organizations.
- Look for individuals to join your cause.
- Gather volunteers or hire employees.
- Put together a board of directors.
- Obtain an accountant, lawyer, or other professionals as needed.
- Get insurance. You may need property or liability insurance. If you have employees, you may need unemployment insurance.
- Spread the word. Use the help of other homeless shelters, food pantries or community outreach programs to spread the word regarding the new homeless shelter. Solicit help from these same organizations for getting donated items for the shelter.
Tips
- It is a good idea to hire lawyer to help you with the steps of becoming a nonprofit organization.
Warnings
- Have a plan in place before embarking on starting your homeless shelter.
Things You'll Need
- Shelter Location and Building
- Mission Statement
- Business Plan
- Business License
- IRS Paperwork
- Professionals
- Volunteers or Employees
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