12 answers
Jiya
Student
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Questions
Asked
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How do I create a completly unique non-profit that helps people who don't have proper access to healthcare?
I'm a high school student passionate about improving access to healthcare, especially for those who lack basic necessities. I'm considering starting a non-profit that creates and distributes care kits containing essential items like period pads, heating pads, Tylenol, and similar products. I plan to collaborate with friends and raise awareness through social media.
However, I realize that many people with similar goals might be doing something along the same lines. I want to find a way to make a real impact while taking a slightly different, more creative or underserved approach. What are some meaningful alternatives I could explore that still support healthcare access but stand out a bit more?
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12 answers
Sharven Rane
Data Scientist
15
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Sharven’s Answer
It's wonderful that you're channeling your passion into such a meaningful cause. Your idea for care kits is fantastic because it provides immediate, tangible help. To give it a unique spin that creates a different kind of impact, you could focus on a specific, often overlooked need. For example, instead of general wellness items, you could create "Postpartum Care Kits" for new mothers in shelters, with specialized items they often can't get. Another idea is creating "Dental Health Kits," as dental pain is a major issue that often gets ignored. Focusing on a specific niche like this makes your mission very clear and helps you stand out.
Another incredibly powerful and unique approach is to tackle the information barrier. Many people don't lack Tylenol as much as they lack knowledge of where to find free or low-cost clinics, dentists, or mental health services. Your non-profit could be a "Community Health Map" project. You and your friends could research and compile all the local resources into a simple, easy-to-use website, a printable flyer, or even just an Instagram page with clear, accessible infographics. You could translate this information into different languages spoken in your community. Instead of giving people a fish, you're teaching them where to find the fishing spots, empowering them to access care for years to come.
Another incredibly powerful and unique approach is to tackle the information barrier. Many people don't lack Tylenol as much as they lack knowledge of where to find free or low-cost clinics, dentists, or mental health services. Your non-profit could be a "Community Health Map" project. You and your friends could research and compile all the local resources into a simple, easy-to-use website, a printable flyer, or even just an Instagram page with clear, accessible infographics. You could translate this information into different languages spoken in your community. Instead of giving people a fish, you're teaching them where to find the fishing spots, empowering them to access care for years to come.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Jiya
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Jiya !
I think that you are really sweet and awesome for wanting to contribute to your community ! Since I have worked extensively in non-profit/social services, I think I can provide you with advice and information that will allow you to implement your ideas while still in high school and even throughout your college years, too !
You would not, as a high school student, be likely to found, create, develop and implement a Non-Profit because you will need the education/degree and experience before you can do that so let me word it a bit differently for you.
What you have in mind is a program and it falls under the category of gifts In kind. It's such a wonderful thing. In order to get this started, you will need to arrange to create an extracurricular or group at your high school. Ask one of your teachers for the information and process on how to do that. You would then spread the word for volunteers for this group. You will have to raise funds for the items, too. You can also think about giving out knitted scarves and hats (if you live in a cold weather area) and ask people for donations of items. So, your High School will be known for this program that serves the students in need as well as people in the community.
I also want to mention that there's really no lack of access to health care if you mean the United States. It's there. But what is a problem is medical insurance, not the poverty level as they can receive Medicaid or their State's medical insurance for people below the poverty level. As for older people, there is a need for people on Medicare because the dual insurances do not pay for everything. As well, people who work sometimes have unreasonable or non-doable insurance. So I don't think that you should think that people don't have "access" to health care, it's more like some people cannot afford it. Too detailed to explain this, but I will suggest how to target your key population.
Many School Districts have a Homeless Liaison or there may even be some community organizations around you that serve the homeless. Students from these families need gifts in kind, items for hygiene, health related (but I do not believe you should include any medications), and they also need school supplies. Visit your school district office as well as some social service agencies and connect with them for your program. People in the community can come to your school to pick up the care packages. And remember, the sky's the limit with a program like this.
You can also do a holiday gift program, too. Information on how to do these programs should be online so do a search as it's a lot of information. There is a program that someone had done at a local hospital that served cancer patients. They knitted hats/caps for the patients that were undergoing chemotherapy. That may be another idea for you and your group.
If you want to dive into the professional non-profit world, major in Non-Profit Administration in college or Human Services for your Bachelors Degree. You will need your Masters Degree in Non-Profit Administration, too. You would then work for some years in an Administrative capacity at an already established non-profit and gain contacts by networking through that job. You will need to interact heavily with the community, which means organizations, corporations and other non-profit agencies and services. The type of service you want to do would require partnerships with other organizations (they can send their clients to you) if you decide to do this professionally later on.
For now, speak with your teachers about this, identify your school districts' Homeless Liaison, read online how to fund raise, obtain donations and get volunteers. You can do this ! It may take some time to get it in full action, but once it is, you will have made an important and memorable mark in your community !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best ! (Remember, no pills or medicines in those care packages).
I think that you are really sweet and awesome for wanting to contribute to your community ! Since I have worked extensively in non-profit/social services, I think I can provide you with advice and information that will allow you to implement your ideas while still in high school and even throughout your college years, too !
You would not, as a high school student, be likely to found, create, develop and implement a Non-Profit because you will need the education/degree and experience before you can do that so let me word it a bit differently for you.
What you have in mind is a program and it falls under the category of gifts In kind. It's such a wonderful thing. In order to get this started, you will need to arrange to create an extracurricular or group at your high school. Ask one of your teachers for the information and process on how to do that. You would then spread the word for volunteers for this group. You will have to raise funds for the items, too. You can also think about giving out knitted scarves and hats (if you live in a cold weather area) and ask people for donations of items. So, your High School will be known for this program that serves the students in need as well as people in the community.
I also want to mention that there's really no lack of access to health care if you mean the United States. It's there. But what is a problem is medical insurance, not the poverty level as they can receive Medicaid or their State's medical insurance for people below the poverty level. As for older people, there is a need for people on Medicare because the dual insurances do not pay for everything. As well, people who work sometimes have unreasonable or non-doable insurance. So I don't think that you should think that people don't have "access" to health care, it's more like some people cannot afford it. Too detailed to explain this, but I will suggest how to target your key population.
Many School Districts have a Homeless Liaison or there may even be some community organizations around you that serve the homeless. Students from these families need gifts in kind, items for hygiene, health related (but I do not believe you should include any medications), and they also need school supplies. Visit your school district office as well as some social service agencies and connect with them for your program. People in the community can come to your school to pick up the care packages. And remember, the sky's the limit with a program like this.
You can also do a holiday gift program, too. Information on how to do these programs should be online so do a search as it's a lot of information. There is a program that someone had done at a local hospital that served cancer patients. They knitted hats/caps for the patients that were undergoing chemotherapy. That may be another idea for you and your group.
If you want to dive into the professional non-profit world, major in Non-Profit Administration in college or Human Services for your Bachelors Degree. You will need your Masters Degree in Non-Profit Administration, too. You would then work for some years in an Administrative capacity at an already established non-profit and gain contacts by networking through that job. You will need to interact heavily with the community, which means organizations, corporations and other non-profit agencies and services. The type of service you want to do would require partnerships with other organizations (they can send their clients to you) if you decide to do this professionally later on.
For now, speak with your teachers about this, identify your school districts' Homeless Liaison, read online how to fund raise, obtain donations and get volunteers. You can do this ! It may take some time to get it in full action, but once it is, you will have made an important and memorable mark in your community !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best ! (Remember, no pills or medicines in those care packages).
Eddie Markie
Talent Acquisition
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Eddie’s Answer
Hi Jiya! Great to hear your passion for creating health access.
As others have mentioned, volunteering is a wonderful way to make connections with non-profits serving health access related missions. There are variety groups that can be explored. I strongly encourage your exploration of education to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Family & Marriage Therapist or a Register Nurse. These licenses can superpower your ability to help underserved community members obtain access to healthcare and it will open up a variety of career paths from non-profit work in addition to working directly with larger healthcare systems who share your motivations. The licenses referenced above can lead directly to a career in Case Management which directly connects people needing care to eligible services.
Wishing you the best of success on your professional journey.
As others have mentioned, volunteering is a wonderful way to make connections with non-profits serving health access related missions. There are variety groups that can be explored. I strongly encourage your exploration of education to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Family & Marriage Therapist or a Register Nurse. These licenses can superpower your ability to help underserved community members obtain access to healthcare and it will open up a variety of career paths from non-profit work in addition to working directly with larger healthcare systems who share your motivations. The licenses referenced above can lead directly to a career in Case Management which directly connects people needing care to eligible services.
Wishing you the best of success on your professional journey.
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Jiya
Paul Marcel-Rene
Property Manager
20
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Your passion for improving healthcare access is inspiring, especially as a high school student already thinking about tangible solutions. Creating care kits is a wonderful and compassionate idea, but you’re right—many similar projects exist, and you’re wise to consider how you might take a more unique approach while still serving the same vital purpose.
One meaningful alternative could be focusing on *educational access to self-care and health literacy*. For example, you could launch a nonprofit or initiative that provides short, accessible health workshops (online or in person) in underserved schools, shelters, or community centers. These could cover topics like menstrual health, pain management, hygiene practices, or how to access low-cost or free local medical resources.
Another approach could be *customizing care kits for specific communities*, such as unhoused youth, rural populations, or immigrants who may have cultural or language barriers. You could partner with local health departments or clinics to include information cards in multiple languages or culturally relevant products.
You might also explore using tech creatively—such as developing a simple app or digital directory of free clinics, shelters, or pharmacies offering low-cost medications in your region. Even a QR code on your care kits linking to these resources could be impactful.
Ultimately, the most meaningful initiatives are those driven by insight and empathy. Talk to people in your community—nurses, teachers, outreach workers—and ask what’s most needed. Your passion combined with research, innovation, and compassion will help you build something that truly makes a lasting difference.
One meaningful alternative could be focusing on *educational access to self-care and health literacy*. For example, you could launch a nonprofit or initiative that provides short, accessible health workshops (online or in person) in underserved schools, shelters, or community centers. These could cover topics like menstrual health, pain management, hygiene practices, or how to access low-cost or free local medical resources.
Another approach could be *customizing care kits for specific communities*, such as unhoused youth, rural populations, or immigrants who may have cultural or language barriers. You could partner with local health departments or clinics to include information cards in multiple languages or culturally relevant products.
You might also explore using tech creatively—such as developing a simple app or digital directory of free clinics, shelters, or pharmacies offering low-cost medications in your region. Even a QR code on your care kits linking to these resources could be impactful.
Ultimately, the most meaningful initiatives are those driven by insight and empathy. Talk to people in your community—nurses, teachers, outreach workers—and ask what’s most needed. Your passion combined with research, innovation, and compassion will help you build something that truly makes a lasting difference.
Thanks for the advice.
Jiya
Laine Himmelmann
Communications
6
Answers
Sacramento, California
Updated
Laine’s Answer
As someone who worked over 12 years in the nonprofit field, I would first encourage you to research any local nonprofits doing this work already (I know there are many in my area who do exactly that work!) and then see if there are opportunities to volunteer there, intern there, or work there. The best way to learn about how to start a nonprofit (or help a nonprofit grow and expand their work) is to get involved in the nonprofit world and learn more about that space.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this. Could you tell me some of those nonprofits that do this exact thing? Thanks!
Jiya
Julie Gengo
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Julie’s Answer
I appreciate the great answers others have shared. Here's what you can do: Start by volunteering with an organization that shares your goals. Look into your local area to find groups offering similar services. By joining a non-profit, you'll learn how they operate and get advice for starting your own. Remember, experience is the best teacher. Use existing tools and methods instead of starting from scratch. Good luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Jiya
Michelle Gethers
7
Answers
Greensboro, North Carolina
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
First congratulations for wanting to address issues related to health and wellness. My recommendation is to learn first before forming a nonprofit. Assess what is already present in your community on this topic. Talk to those organizations to learn the pros and cons. Second. identify your target market and the future customer/client what they need. Often nonprofits are started without input from the customer/client. Third, be a volunteer on this topic at a local hospital or healthcare agency. That hands on experience will help you identify the unique needs and practical solutions to drive change and impact. Be wishes.
Loved reading this, thanks!
Jiya
Wareesha Nabeel
Research Assistant
1
Answer
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
Wareesha’s Answer
As a high school student passionate about improving healthcare access, you can make your nonprofit stand out by going beyond basic care kits and focusing on creative, community-driven solutions. Instead of general kits, offer personalized ones based on specific local needs, such as reusable menstrual pads or mental health resources. Add value by including QR codes that link to free health services, local clinics, or symptom checkers, making healthcare more digitally accessible. You could also start a youth-led peer education program to spread basic health knowledge in schools or underserved areas, or even organize small pop-up health stations for basic aid and checkups. These unique touches help you move from simply giving products to creating lasting awareness, support, and empowerment in the communities you serve.
Wareesha, thank you!
Jiya
Jocelyn Conde Arjon
1
Answer
Los Banos, California
Updated
Jocelyn’s Answer
Hi Jiya! It's wonderful that you want to help others in the community. Partnering with local nonprofits is a fantastic idea. Try brainstorming some ideas and weigh the pros and cons of getting involved. Volunteering will give you valuable experience. Also, connect with different groups you want to support. You've got this, and good luck!
I appreciate your support, Jocelyn
Jiya
Larry Siegel
Government Liaison, Non-profit fundraising, Non-profit operation
45
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Jiya -- another approach is to start a Rotary Interact club at your school, or join one if it already exists. As a part of Rotary, Interact members have access to the support of Rotary clubs worldwide and also access to the Rotary Foundation grants that are available to Rotary clubs.
Interact clubs, like Rotary clubs, are dedicated to service, and your Interact club could turn its energies toward the goals you are interested in. There is an online Interact club, the Worldwide Interact club, you can visit to get an idea of how it works. It meets every Saturday at 3pm, U.S. East Coast time.
Interact clubs, like Rotary clubs, are dedicated to service, and your Interact club could turn its energies toward the goals you are interested in. There is an online Interact club, the Worldwide Interact club, you can visit to get an idea of how it works. It meets every Saturday at 3pm, U.S. East Coast time.
Thanks for the advice.
Jiya
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
You will find the nonprofit community is pretty supportive and accepting. If there is a group doing similar work, you may be able to partner and open a chapter in your area.
Your goals are noble and the world can use more people like you!
Your goals are noble and the world can use more people like you!
Thank you for the advice, Jerome.
Jiya
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Jiya! Yes, I wish everyone shared your intentions, your desire to help others. This would be a major increment to raise the standard of living which has been questionable since The Club of Rome assessed it in 1972. Access to care is a big part of the standard of living calculation. No person should be denied adequate care irrespective of their situation. Any healthcare system that fails to provide it in any instance should be overhauled. Usually, it is better run by doctors and nurses than administrators or politicians. There are some changes we all would like to see, and your institution should have the power - by reviews of services to render governments accountable to the underprivileged. In Australia we were involved with the Community Health Association Standards Program Reviews to assess healthcare services. The degree of social support is abysmal in some countries, leading to disadvantaged people. You are working towards what is fair for all!
GOD BLESS FAIRNESS!
GOD BLESS FAIRNESS!
I appreciate your support, James Constantine
Jiya