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Nurturing Community and Environment in Lakeland

Lakeland’s numerous lakes and extensive park system provide a natural backdrop for environmental and conservation-focused nonprofits. Initiatives aiming to preserve the city’s natural beauty, enhance public green spaces, and promote environmental education can find a welcoming and engaged audience in Lakeland. Additionally, the city's commitment to sustainability opens avenues for partnerships and programs that champion green initiatives and conservation efforts.

The city also boasts a strong sense of community and a thriving cultural sector, evidenced by institutions like the Polk Museum of Art and the annual Florida Southern College Festival of Fine Arts. Nonprofits focused on arts, education, and community development have the opportunity to enrich Lakeland's cultural offerings, promote access to the arts, and support educational initiatives that benefit all segments of the population.

8,449 Clients Successfully Served Since 2010

Legal Experience to Propel Your Lakeland Nonprofit Forward

Launching a nonprofit in Lakeland involves navigating the complexities of state and federal regulations to ensure legal compliance and operational efficacy. Chisholm Law Firm provides the legal Experience necessary to guide your nonprofit through the formation process, secure 501c3 status, and maintain compliance with legal requirements. Our deep understanding of nonprofit law and commitment to your mission make us the ideal partner to support your organization’s growth and impact.

Our comprehensive legal services are designed to address the unique needs of your nonprofit, from the initial setup and incorporation to governance, fundraising, and regulatory compliance. By partnering with us, you ensure that your nonprofit is not only legally sound but also strategically positioned to thrive in Lakeland’s dynamic community.

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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.

Transforming Lakeland Through Nonprofit Leadership

Your decision to start a nonprofit in Lakeland is a step towards making a lasting impact in a community known for its warmth, hospitality, and collaborative spirit. Whether your focus is on preserving the environment, enhancing the arts, or supporting community development, your nonprofit can play a pivotal role in shaping Lakeland’s future.

With the Chisholm Law Firm as your legal guide, you can navigate the intricacies of nonprofit management with confidence, allowing you to concentrate on achieving your mission. Our partnership ensures that your nonprofit not only meets legal standards but also exceeds community expectations, fostering a legacy of positive change in Lakeland.

Embark on your nonprofit journey in Lakeland with the assurance that comes from having a dedicated legal ally. Together, we can build an organization that not only addresses the city’s needs but also inspires the community to join in your cause, creating a brighter future for Lakeland and its residents.