If you are reading this guide then you may be an individual, a church or an existing nonprofit who has recognized the purpose God has written in your heart. It does not matter if you are a start-up or an existing organization there are ways for you to benefit from this information. This guide is more than just a manual to assist you in starting or sustaining your nonprofit organization, it is an empowerment tool. In my experience I have witnessed an organization at its peak with more than $500,000 in grant funds awarded. I have had the opportunity to develop programs and engage a dying community. In the same respect, I have also witnessed the fall of an organization due to poor planning and development.It is my heart's desire that your organization not become one of the many that fail. This material is presented in a step-by-step process to aide you during the establishment and/or reorganization phases. This guide will teach you not only how but why it is important to conduct a needs assessment, write a strategic plan, develop a strong Board of Directors, apply for your tax-exempt status, and research alternate funding opportunities. To receive the most from this guide, both start-up and existing nonprofits should take your time to complete each process in the order it is written.