Step 1- You have to fill out how many forms???

For the last few weeks I have been reading countless articles, websites and books about starting a non profit. You have to file with the IRS, Department of Justice and the State along with a slew of other organizations. Each of these has a application that you must complete and some have to be done before others so that you can send copies with other applications. I have made a list in order of when they need to be done and how long it takes to hear back about approval. 

Today I started working on writing the organizations bylaws, I have gotten a template from a website and have started proofing and adjusting the document to fit OKO. I got about 1/3 of the way through before my eyes started to cross and I could no longer look at it. (in case you had not guessed it is a very lengthy document) I will work on that again tomorrow or perhaps on my next dialysis day. This document will likely need to be proofed by an attorney just to be safe. 

I will also be applying for an EIN (tax identification number), this should not take too long to get back so that I can set up bank accounts and send copies with other applications that require it. 

Luckily I am fairly familiar with what it takes to establish a company so it should just be a matter of submitting the forms and waiting. I have never tried to apply for tax exempt status from the IRS and I am hearing that is a fairly long wait but is not required to establish the company and begin some of the local support work and education. 

I am recruiting people to be on my board of directors, I have 1 possibly 2 people that are enthusiastic but it is difficult to find people who even know about kidney disease let alone are willing to devote a large amount of time to the cause for no pay! So if you know anyone in Oregon who is willing to lend a hand tell them to contact me. Sharonnelson123@gmail.com. That is about all I have accomplished so far, I know there is a lot still to do but I will keep at it. 

For those who are interested in donating I will be setting up a GoFundMe to help cover the costs of startup. I will post details as soon as I have them.