Running an animal welfare organization requires passion.
It would not be long before your initial enthusiasm and excitement give way to despair and despondency if you start an animal welfare organization without meticulous planning. You must develop awareness of the various intricacies involved in animal welfare like shelter, feeding, health problems, behavioral issues, adoption and euthanasia. You must visit other animal shelters and rescue groups in your community, read animal magazines, talk to veterinarians and experienced people in the field, attend seminars on animal welfare and utilize the Internet to gain extensive knowledge on animal welfare and the procedure involved in setting up an organization for that purpose.
Instructions
1. Decide whether you would set up an organization that will look after the welfare of various animals or a particular group of animals like dogs, cats, and ferrets. You must also be clear if you will deal only with a specific breed or all breeds in an animal category.
2. Hire the services of a reputable animal rights attorney to take care of the various procedural issues involved in setting up an animal welfare organization adhering to local, state and federal regulations. You have the option of setting up a private shelter or incorporating your organization. Incorporation will reduce personal liability and lend a professional look to your organization, while enhancing the standard of animal care.
3. Discuss with your attorney about naming and registering the organization and the bylaws and articles of incorporation. Invite competent people interested in animal welfare with expertise in marketing, public relations, fundraising, veterinary science, accounting and management to become part of the board of directors.
4. Visit the local United States Internal Revenue Service, IRS, office and get the application form for 501 (c)(3) nonprofit status for your animal welfare organization. Obtaining nonprofit status will help you garner funds from individuals and institutions as donations to nonprofit groups are tax deductible and nonprofit organizations are accountable to the IRS.
5. Contact the attorneys general office in your state and file a request for sales tax exemption and certificate to solicit donations for your animal welfare organization.
6. Write down a clear and concise mission statement for your animal welfare organization after discussion with the board of directors. Also, decide on the short-term goals and hierarchy of the organization.
7. Define clearly the policies of the animal welfare organization like veterinary care and adoption. This will enhance your public image and also ensure uniformity in delivery of services.
8. Locate a suitable place depending on the type and number of animals you wish to provide shelter, and their housing and feeding habits. Purchase the property or sign a long-term lease with the landlord after consulting your attorney.
9. Select volunteers and recruit capable people to assist in the day-to-day activities of the animal welfare organization.
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