Starting a New Nonprofit

Getting Started

We encourage anyone considering opening an agency to provide direct services to survivors to first partner with existing service providers in their community. Many people find they can have a meaningful impact by supporting existing service providers through employment, volunteering, supporting prevention and community development, board service, fundraising, or financial contributions. These efforts expand the capacity of established service providers and strengthen community response to violence. Getting involved locally also gives you valuable firsthand insight into the field, which will serve you well if you ultimately decide to move forward with opening your own organization.

Requirements

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, domestic and sexual violence service providers are highly specialized organizations. Opening and sustaining an organization that provides direct services to survivors requires: 

• Sustainable funding from multiple sources, including government grants, private foundations, and community donors; 

• Extensive knowledge of advocacy, trauma-informed services, crisis intervention, and legal confidentiality requirements; 

• Qualified staff with specialized training and ongoing professional development; 

• Compliance with state and federal regulations on victim services, nonprofit management and employment; 

• Appropriate facilities that meet zoning, licensing, occupancy, accessibility, and safety requirements; and  

• Strong partnerships with the judicial system, healthcare providers, law enforcement, schools, housing providers, and other community organizations. 

If you are still interested in creating an organization that serves victims and survivors of violence, we encourage you to review the resources below. You are also welcome to contact us with specific questions.  

Resources 

• FAQ: How To Start a Nonprofit in Nebraska (Nonprofit Association of the Midlands)

• Cause Collective

• Thinking About Starting a Nonprofit? (Omaha Community Foundation)

• Are You Considering Starting a Nonprofit? (Board Source)

• Starting a Nonprofit (Library of Congress)