I want to open up a nonprofit homeless shelter where do I start?

Answer 1

You need financing so unless you are wealthy you will need to get some grants. You need to be registered as a not for profit. You will need a budget. You need a building and staff and insurance and furniture and you need experience in operating a shelter including the necessary education to provide proper oversight and counseling.

Answer 2

You need to have the financing to hire a staff that includes: people who are trained and experienced in working with the homeless -- dealing with psychological issues, helping people to find jobs, helping people to apply for government programs, and people with medical training; people to handle accounting and payroll and to ensure financial transparency and credibility; and professional administrators to manage staff and volunteers. You will also need financing for the building and equipment. Where do you get financing? From a board of directors, who believe passionately in the cause and are ready to put forth their own money and solicit grants and government contracts to make it all happen.

But first -- are the homeless already served by a shelter in your area? If so, why do you think there needs to be another one, seperate from the existing one? Is there grassroots support for making this happen? Are there communities of faith (churches, temples and mosques), other noprofits and government officials ready and willing to support the creation of this new facility?

Answer 3

The quickest and efficient way to get started is go see an attorney, they have the answers because there is tons of paperwork and you will need them, an attorney or an accountant, Good luck and God Bless!!!

Answer 4

1. Good quiet place to sit and think too clear mind.

2. Pen/pencil and large yellow pad of paper to draft/outline your business plan.

Answer 5

go work at other shelters and see what it takes for them. First hand knowledge is invaluable!