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Copyright 2009-
Want to Start a Nonprofit? Harsh Realities (and How to Deal With Them)
Starting a nonprofit is an admirable ambition. Wanting to make a difference and being willing to sacrifice your own time and personal wealth for the benefit of others is a rare quality, and one that should be acknowledged and celebrated. Unfortunately, the world doesn't actually work that way. People who selflessly commit their worklife to the nonprofit world will tell you that there are some harsh realities that come along with doing good, especially for the founders of nonprofit organizations. Here are some things you should know if you are thinking about starting a new nonprofit, and a bit of advice if you will be going ahead with your plans!
Once the nonprofit is launched, it's no longer yours!
By definition, nonprofit corporations are owned by, and operated for the benefit of, the public. This is why they are still organized as corporations, complete with the burden of paperwork and the board of directors to oversee the whole deal. As the founder, you can opt to join the board, or you can get them to hire you as the executive director, but from the time the nonprofit is organized, you no longer have complete control over what happens.
The World Owes You Nothing
Not for trying to do good, or even for succeeding at doing good. You have to be satisfied
with the knowledge that you have made a contribution, that you have helped people,
or animals, or the environment. The accolades are not likely to come, and even when
they do the celebration is short-
It's Not About You
Or your feelings, your opinions, or your desires. Once again, a nonprofit is, by
definition, the property of the public and run by representatives of the public -
If you are starting a nonprofit for all the right reasons and understand your fleeting role in the whole endeavor, there are a few measures you can take to help your original vision stay in the mix. First, acknowledge your inevitable departure and prepare yourself for that event. Network with others who have founded organizations about their process, what went well and what didn't, and what they would do differently the second time around.
Begin working on a succession plan from day one. Groom staff members and key employees to carry on the visions of the original board. Include the most important ideals in the bylaws, and recruit an initial board with similar motivators. Then, sit back and trust that those who choose to be involved will do their best to make the most impact possible. While you are involved, support the board as much as possible, and always show donors and volunteers a united front.
Starting a nonprofit must be an entirely selfless act, or you aren't likely to get very far. If you can separate your own ego and emotions from the problem that needs to be tackled, you will start your organization off to a good start, with the potential to grow and thrive and become a pillar in your community for years to come.
About the Author
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