Difference between revisions of "How to Start an NGO"
From NGO Handbook
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==1. Establish Purpose/Vision/Goals== | ==1. Establish Purpose/Vision/Goals== | ||
| − | The first essential step in starting an NGO is to determine the purpose of the organization. Do so with a clear and concise written statement that describes the charitable mission of the organization. The statement must be broad enough to reflect the values of the NGO and why it exists. It is important to remember who the target community of the organization is and why it is important to reach out to this community.<ref>BoardSource: Building Effective Nonprofit Boards. (2008). Starting a Nonprofit. Retrieved June 24, 2008 from <http://www.boardsource.org></ref> | + | The first essential step in starting an NGO is to determine the purpose of the organization. Do so with a clear and concise written statement that describes the charitable [[Mission Statement|mission]] of the organization. The statement must be broad enough to reflect the values of the NGO and why it exists. It is important to remember who the target community of the organization is and why it is important to reach out to this community.<ref>BoardSource: Building Effective Nonprofit Boards. (2008). Starting a Nonprofit. Retrieved June 24, 2008 from <http://www.boardsource.org></ref> |
| − | It is also necessary to envision what the organization will become and what the long term goals and objectives are. This should be done through short-term planning (an annual plan) as well as long-term planning (a strategic plan).<ref>Hummel, Joan M. (1996). Starting and Running a Nonprofit Organization. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press. </ref> | + | It is also necessary to envision what the organization will become and what the long term goals and objectives are. This should be done through short-term planning (an annual plan) as well as long-term planning (a [[NGO Strategic Planning|strategic plan]]).<ref>Hummel, Joan M. (1996). Starting and Running a Nonprofit Organization. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press. </ref> |
==2. Establish an Initial Board of Directors== | ==2. Establish an Initial Board of Directors== | ||
Revision as of 12:53, 12 August 2008
Starting an NGO can be a very time-consuming process. It requires a strong vision and dedication from an individual or group that share a common concern about a community. If initiated correctly in an organized and strategic way, the services implemented to benefit the community can be very helpful and resourceful.[1]
The following presents ten steps, in general chronological order, that are useful in the formation of an NGO. This paper acts as a broad “how to” guideline and these issues may vary depending on each NGO. It is important to realize that these situations also vary from country to country, as each one has its own specific requirements and recommendations.
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