Creating a volunteer organization?

Question

I'm actually starting to think about creating a volunteer organization. It would be designed for college / high school students to help out during the summers. We could do fundraising... All kinds of things. Once it gets going, I could advertise it in the newspaper, or ask them if they'll write an article on it. Does anyone know what it takes besides just having a few people get together? What else would I need?

Answer 1

In 2002, I founded a very similiar charity. It was called Pittsburgh Singles Volunteer Network. We connected singles to charities that needed volunteers for a specific project. The projects were things like helping with a mailing, clean-up along the river one afternoon, passing out programs at a performing arts event.

Doing this informally would be pretty easy - the best way to communicate with people is electronically. This would mean putting together a web site and a listserv of people who want to volunteer. Have someone with marketing experience help you write a press release and send it to the newspapers. You will very likely get an article or two, and then, watch the volunteers call you!

If you want to be more formal, you could apply with the IRS to become a 501(c)(3), a charitable organization. You would first have to become incorporated in your state, get an EIN number (like a social security number, except for companies), and file a fictious name application with the state where you reside.

Getting a 501(c)(3) has become more involved and a much longer process than before 9/11 and Katrina. And once you apply, there's no guarantee that the IRS will think that you are a legitimate charitable organization.

Instead, it might be easier to hook up with an organization that's already a charity and become affiliated with that organization. A good example would be the Hands On Network (http://www.handsonnetwork.org) or even a local church or school (they're all considered charities).

While getting your 501(c)(3) is a royal pain in the neck, the big reward is that you can then do fundraising. Unfortunately, very few organizations will give you money or donations unless you have that 501(c)(3), because your having it means that the company giving you the donation can write it off on their taxes.

I hope this helps and best of luck with your new organization! :) Julie

Answer 2

If you want to become an active part of your local community services, the best way to do so is to check the available volunteering opportunities. The thing is, volunteers are, in a way, the heart of a community organization, and without volunteers, many things would not get done. It is an excellent way to become more involved in community development and to help those who truly need you. If you start searching for the organizations which are looking for volunteers, you will be surprised by how many there are. In each area, a pair of extra hands is always helpful, and you can get involved in any kind of organization you choose. There are animal shelters, homeless shelters, medical centers, and various international volunteering organizations where people are always welcome. If you want to be a part of it all, find your calling and join some of the organizations in order to help.

Answer 3

To be a recognized organization and have tax exemption you should apply for a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS...you will need bylaws and a board (members) of at least 3 people but more towards 7-10.

Answer 4

There are many volunteer centers that provide volunteer opportunities and connect groups of volunteers like yourselves to various different opportunities. You might want to consider turning to them for some advice on your program. They may already have the appropriate resources that you need (ie. access to multiple projects, causes, isssues, etc.). They can also help you with one of the more challenging aspects -- marketing.

My volunteer center does offer some programs for team volunteering, and a youth volunteer leadership program as well. Our youth leaders meet regularly and coordinate a lot of fundraisers, volunteer projects, and other community awareness projects.

Here are some links to help you get started:
http://www.handsonnetwork.org/our-network/
http://www.pointsoflight.org/centers/find_center.cfm
http://national.unitedway.org
http://www.volunteerresource.org

Good luck!