How can i gro my non-profit ?
Hi! I recently founded is non-profit call ARNA project (you are not alone), our mission is to advocate for mental health through educational content and care packages like post talking about different neuro diseases and how to mange stress. For care packages our plan is to send/donate to hospital for those struggling with mental health to show support and comfort. Hygiene product, snack, books, cards, and a lot more would be included in the care packages.
As of right now I'm trying to build a strong foundation and internet presence on social media before outreaching to brand and hospital to ask if they would like to collab/donate. Currently im working on my brief and begining to post on socjal media and getting engagement up by creating "engagement group with other non-profit" ( first post will be next week)
Some of my plan is
1, volunteers opportunities through cards making (online) which will be print out and included in our care packages
2. Propose a bill to government to improve mental health institutions ( idea might change)
3. Connect student to more medical opportunities through online post
4. Establish sponsorship
5. Create an executive team
6. Course on medical related Content ( not finalize )
7. Fundraiser ( restaurant, brand, community event)
I am a junior in high school and is new to this stuff but I really want to show an impact and support my community.
It would be so great if anyone have any tips on like finance management for non-profit, any organizations worth outreaching to, what document or preparation should I make, content ideas, any person ( journalist, politicians, research, accountants, etc), how to grow my non-profit, legal stuffs, how to outreach to brand, website design/ creating.
Anything would be so useful to me! I'm really grateful for your time reading this. I hope to learn in any capacity which then can be use to make an impact!
*Note: Edited by Admin to adhere to guidelines.
3 answers
Mrinalini’s Answer
Chinyere Okafor
Chinyere’s Answer
First, I want to say that it's inspiring to see someone in high school take the initiative to support mental health in their community. Starting a nonprofit is a big undertaking, and it's great that you're thinking about building a strong foundation before trying to grow too quickly.
My biggest piece of advice is to focus on doing one or two things exceptionally well before expanding into many different projects. Right now, your educational content and care packages fit together nicely because they both support your mission. As your organization grows, you'll have a better idea of what your community needs most.
I would also encourage you to build a small, reliable team. Even a few committed volunteers with clear roles, such as social media, fundraising, partnerships, and operations, can make a big difference. A strong team will help your organization continue to grow without everything depending on you.
When you're ready to reach out to hospitals or companies, prepare a simple partnership package. Include your mission, the impact you hope to make, what you're asking for, and how their support will help. Organizations are often more willing to partner when they can clearly see the value of the collaboration.
As for your social media, focus on providing accurate, evidence-based information. Mental health is an important topic, so make sure any educational content is based on trusted sources and make it clear that your posts are for education, not medical advice.
Finally, don't underestimate the importance of good record-keeping. Keep track of donations, expenses, volunteer hours, and the number of people you serve. As your nonprofit grows, these records will help you apply for grants, attract sponsors, and demonstrate your impact.
You're at the beginning of what could be a very meaningful journey. Stay open to learning, ask for help when you need it, and don't feel pressured to accomplish everything in your first year. Many successful nonprofits started with one simple idea, delivered consistently over time.
Best wishes!
Samuel’s Answer
First of all, I want to say how inspiring it is that you're taking this step while still in high school. I remember starting my own initiative in the Prosthetics & Orthotics field with a big vision but very few resources. It felt overwhelming at times, but I learned that lasting impact comes from building a strong foundation first and growing one step at a time.
My advice would be to focus on clearly defining your mission, documenting everything (your goals, budget, partnerships, and impact), and building trust through consistent, evidence-based content. Start with one or two well-executed projects, collect stories and feedback, then use those results when approaching hospitals, brands, and sponsors. Relationships and credibility will open more doors than trying to do everything at once.
You're already thinking in the right direction, and that's a great start. Keep learning, ask questions, and don't be afraid to refine your ideas as you grow. If you ever need someone to bounce ideas off, review a proposal, or offer guidance as your nonprofit develops, feel free to reach out. I'd be happy to help however I can. Wishing you and the ARNA Project all the best!
I'm rooting for you.