If you’ve gone through all the steps in my #DoneWithSilence project kit, then you probably know what kind of project you want to start in your community. So, if you’re interested in starting an organisation that can offer help to people on a larger scale, then a non-profit organisation (NPO) may be the project for you. Read this article to find out how you can do this.

Step 1: Define the Problem

Take some time to think about the problem that you want to solve. This can be educating teenagers about safe sex habits, helping young girls with public speaking or offering charity support to disadvantaged people in your community.

Just make sure that you’re passionate about this specific problem you are trying to solve. Think about what it would mean for you to offer such support and how that will be rewarding for you.

Step 2: Research the problem

Find out as much information about the problem as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask questions from people who are already experiencing the problem, those who are also researching the problem, or from people who are currently solving it. The more information you have about the problem, the closer you are to solving it.

Step 3: Has it been done?

If you learn that there’s someone or an organisation in your community addressing the problem already, ask yourself whether your community needs another NPO addressing the same problem.

If your answer is yes, then you’re surely on the right track. But if your answer is no, then it might be a great idea to think of a different way to address the same problem. You could also approach the organisation to find out if they can collaborate with you. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

Step 4: Get help

When you’ve successfully completed step 1 to 3, then it’s time to look for any avenues where you can get help. Approach people you believe have expert knowledge and experience in this field. This person or people can be mentors that can help to guide you towards your goal, or someone who already has an organisation of their own.

Step 5: Action plan

Planning is really important when starting an NPO. Remember that you’re going to impact the lives of other people, so make sure that your goals are realistic. Keep in mind that money may be involved, which means that you need to learn how to create a proposal plan, a budget and know how to deal with the financial part of your project.

Step 6: Register

Registering your organisation makes it credible (trustworthy), especially if you want people to invest in it. The registration process is not difficult, but you will need some money to do it. Here’s info on the process of registering your project.

There you have it, Choma! A step by step guide to starting your very own non-profit organisation. Keep in mind that the problem that you want to solve may not be solved in one day and that’s okay, you’ll see reults eventually. Good luck!

Remember if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).