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Understanding the Nonprofit Spectrum in Georgia
Nonprofits in Georgia cover a broad spectrum of causes, from environmental conservation and educational programs to healthcare and the arts. These organizations are integral to addressing local and statewide issues, providing services, and enhancing community well-being. Understanding the different types of nonprofits and their specific focuses helps in tailoring organizational structures and strategies that align with their missions.
7 Things to Avoid
When Starting Your Nonprofit
Improper Filing of Paperwork
Errors in incorporation documents, tax-exemption applications, and annual reporting can result in denial of tax-exempt status or costly fines.
Poor Reputation with Funders
Major donors and grantmakers may hesitate to support your cause if they perceive legal or governance issues, limiting your funding opportunities.
Non-Compliance with Federal Regulations
Failure to adhere to laws governing nonprofit operations, including fundraising rules and employment practices, can lead to legal trouble and expensive fines.
Lack of Proper Financial Management
Inadequate accounting practices or mismanagement of funds can jeopardize your organization's finances and risk your tax-exempt status.
Exposure to Personal Liability
If your nonprofit is not set up correctly, founders and board members may be personally liable for debts and legal issues, risking their personal assets.
Inadequate Governance Structure
Lack of clarity in your board structure, bylaws, or decision-making processes can lead to internal disputes and loss of public trust - even getting kicked off of your own board of directors. Using generic online templates or DIY sites can often miss important clauses to protect your rights in case there is a major dispute within your organization.
Inability to Maintain Tax-Exempt Status
Nonprofits not meeting ongoing compliance requirements risk losing their tax-exempt status, which can greatly hinder their operations and reputation.
To avoid these pitfalls and ensure your nonprofit's success, it's essential to work with an experienced attorney who specializes in nonprofit law. Nonprofit attorneys can guide you through the startup process, advise you regarding funding legalities, and ensure compliance with annual filings and reporting requirements. With an experienced attorney by your side, you'll have peace of mind knowing you won't be left in the dark on critical legal matters and your organization will be set up for long-term success.
8,449 Clients Successfully Served Since 2010
The Role of Legal Guidance in Nonprofit Success
Navigating the legal landscape is crucial for the successful establishment and operation of a nonprofit in Georgia. Legal professionals specializing in nonprofit law play a critical role in this process. They provide essential advice on compliance with state and federal regulations, help in the preparation of necessary documentation for incorporation and tax-exemption applications, and offer ongoing counsel to ensure that nonprofits maintain their good standing and continue to operate effectively within legal parameters.
Meet Our Attorney Audrey K. Chisholm, Esq.
Audrey’s passion for helping people start their own nonprofit organizations came from adversity. She started her nonprofit, Revolution Leadership, Inc., as a college student. Although she had big dreams for the organization – she couldn’t seem to get grants or donations to help grow the organization. She paid for the expenses of the nonprofit out of her own pocket from her summer internships and was only able to host smaller programs due to the limited budget.
Things changed when began studying nonprofit law while in law school. She learned strategies that major law firms used when forming nonprofits for their clients and studied the best practices of the most successful nonprofits. She realized that due to the the way her nonprofit was structured – she was missing out on funding opportunities.
Using her newfound legal knowledge, she obtained 501c3 tax-exempt status and grew her nonprofit into an organization that has served 1,689 students and has awarded 34 college scholarships. As a result, Revolution Leadership® receives major grants from Wells Fargo®, Enterprise® as well as corporate sponsorships from Wal-mart®, Olive Garden® and Chick-fil-A®.
She graduated from law school and started Chisholm Law Firm, PLLC – a firm that would help others form nonprofits that would be eligible for major grant funding. Audrey’s nonprofit practice includes having successfully formed 501c3 tax-exempt nonprofit organizations for clients throughout the United States ranging from startups to a Fortune 500 company.
She is a published author and her latest book became the #1 bestselling book in the Nonprofit Management and Leadership category on Amazon called "Start A 501c3 Nonprofit That Doesn’t Ruin Your Life: How to Legally Structure Your Nonprofit to Avoid I.R.S. Trouble, Lawsuits, Financial Scandals & More!"
She has served on the board of directors of several prominent nonprofit organizations including the board of directors for Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society for six years and the board of the Florida State University Torchbearers and Florida State University Recent Graduate Development Council with combined annual budgets exceeding $1 million.
Attorney Chisholm is a member in good standing of the Florida Bar. She is an AV-Preeminent Rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbell® which is the highest distinction a lawyer can achieve. She has been nominated for the Florida Legal Elite award, which recognizes the state’s top lawyers as selected by their peers.
Attorney Chisholm was awarded the “Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition” by the United States House of Representatives for her work in the community. She was nominated for the 2012 Presidential Citizens Medal awarded by President Obama. She was also featured in the November 2011 issue of Black Enterprise®, a national business magazine for “Making A Difference.” She is the recipient of the Mayor’s Humanitarian Award as well as the Orlando Magic® NBA Team “Magic Maker” award for her contributions to the community.
She is happily married to Dr. Juan P. Chisholm and enjoys being a wife and mother of three beautiful daughters and one son. She has over 14,000 followers on Twitter.
She believes in the Biblical principle of tithing and donates regularly to her local church as well as other charitable organizations.
EDUCATION:
- Juris Doctorate, Florida A&M University College of Law B.S.
- Florida State University La Universidad Politecnica de Valencia, Spain (studies in international business)
AWARDS & RECOGNITION:
- The Florida Bar, Member in good standing
- United States House of Representatives “Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition”
- Mayor’s Humanitarian Award
- Outstanding Lawyer Award, Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity
- NBA Team Orlando Magic® “Magic Maker” Award
- Outstanding Alumna Award, Omicron Delta Kappa, Inc.
- Reubin Askew Young Alumni Award, Florida State University
- Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing U.S. Private Companies
- Law Firm 500 Award for 12th fastest growing law firm in the U.S.
- Rising Star” Award for top 2.5% of lawyers in the State of Florida.
Embarking on Your Nonprofit Journey in Georgia
Starting a nonprofit in Georgia is a promising yet complex endeavor. With a comprehensive understanding of the legal requirements, strategic planning, and community dynamics, you can establish a resilient organization poised to make lasting impacts. Your passion for social good, backed by strategic preparation and robust community ties, will lay the groundwork for a successful and impactful presence in Georgia's nonprofit landscape.
As you take this significant step, remember that a network of dedicated professionals and community advocates is ready to support your vision. Together, with a shared commitment to service and collaboration, we can build a stronger, more equitable Georgia, where every community has the resources and support to thrive.