Starting a Non-Profit?

<p>Hello,</p>

<p>I have been interested in community service for years, and not just for the bonus of looking good for colleges. I really have a passion for helping others and have a good amount of experience in donating and volunteering for various organizations.</p>

<p>Starting my own non-profit really intrigues me, and after being a member of Wish Upon A Hero (an online wish-granting community), I have become fairly obsessed with starting my own non-profit. I was wondering if anyone would be able to key me in on how difficult it actually is to do.</p>

<p>I have various ideas, and I really am not set on one goal as I try to help every thing that I have the means to help, so I am also looking for opinions on this. I have considered joining up with other non-profits in my area but they lack the programs that I am considering and I really am enthusiastic about starting my own.</p>

<p>-One option is an online non-profit. The Wish Upon A Hero website has a space for other organizations, and I would love to use the website as a base to advertise and find clients. I would major in helping teen mothers get the basics they need for their child.</p>

<p>-Another option, also using the WUAH website would be a simple "happy mail" non-profit, where we would send out hundreds of cards to sick/depressed/needy people to wish them happy birthdays, anniversaries, get well, etc. You know, just a more relaxed idea.</p>

<p>-This one seems nearly impossible, but I would love to be able to organize some sort of summer program for needy children in my area. Organize field trips (amusement parks, trips to the library, etc.) while their parents are working to put their family back on their feet.</p>

<p>-A peer mentoring group. I know that their is the Big Brothers Big Sisters club but you have to be an adult to volunteer there and the closest one in my area is about 30 minutes away, so kids around me don't really have that opportunity. I would try to find a room in the local library or something, and once a week for a few hours we would get to get and have an activity, and other teenagers would be assigned to a younger child as their mentor, someone to look up to.</p>

<p>I know they probably seem unrealistic for a high school student to organize but is it possible? I would fundraise around my community and ask local businesses for support in my endeavors. Also, if there is anyone out there who would like to partner up in starting something, I would love to work with anyone if we could find a way to work it out since we most likely don't live close by.</p>

<p>Thank you for any ideas, input or comments!</p>