How to set up a charity: 9 simple steps to get started.

This article provides detailed guidance on establishing a charitable foundation, from defining its mission and developing an operational plan to completing legal documentation and ensuring transparent operation. Additionally, it shares strategies for effective fundraising, building a social brand, selecting areas aligned with personal passions, and defining the roles of volunteers and the board of directors. This comprehensive guide helps founders build a sustainable and legally compliant charitable organization.

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Establishing a charity fund is not only a dream for compassionate individuals, but also a meaningful journey that helps you transform kindness into practical action. While it may seem complicated at first, if you truly want to contribute to the community, building a charity fund is entirely within your reach.

To begin, you need to clearly define the fund's operational goals , core values , and target audience . This is followed by specific steps such as developing an operational plan , completing legal documentation , and operating transparently in accordance with the law.

If you're looking for a clear, easy-to-understand, and highly practical guide on how to set up a charity in Vietnam, this article will provide you with the entire process and experience needed to begin your philanthropic journey in a solid and legal way.

Part 1: Strategies for Effective Charity Operations in the First 5 Years

Step 1: Develop a clear mission statement for your charity.

To establish a sustainable and trustworthy charity, the first thing you need to do is define your mission statement . This is the guiding principle that directs all your activities and builds trust with the community and donors.

How to write an effective mission statement:

  • Define your core objective: Clearly state what your fund is aiming for and what societal issues you want to contribute to solving.

  • Describe the target group that the fund supports: Who benefits from your activities – for example, impoverished children, people with disabilities, disadvantaged areas, or the natural environment.

  • Explain the meaning of the mission: Why is this goal important and necessary for the community?

  • Explain how you will achieve your goal: What will you do to reach it – for example, fundraising, organizing support programs, collaborating with other social organizations.

Practical tip:

  • Write concisely and clearly, no more than 3–4 sentences.

  • Regularly review the mission statement to ensure the fund remains on its original course.

  • Use this statement in legal filings, fundraising, communications, and when working with regulatory agencies.

Example:
The organization "Feeding America" ​​has a very concise mission statement:

"Our mission is to drive change in the United States by ensuring everyone has access to nutritious food, through partnerships with food banks, policymakers, and communities."

Step 2: Develop a detailed operational plan for the first five years of the charity fund.

After defining your mission, the next step is to develop a clear and feasible business plan . This is the "guideline" that will help your fund operate sustainably, transparently, and achieve its long-term goals.

The following content should be included in the activity plan:

  • 1. Overall objectives of the fund

    • Clearly define what you want to achieve in the next 5 years (e.g., support 10,000 children in attending school, fund 100 environmental protection projects, etc.).

    • Goals should be specific, measurable, and have a clear deadline.

  • 2. Projected revenue sources

    • Develop a conservative estimate of how much money will be raised through activities such as: fundraising, organizing events, sponsoring businesses, or partnering with other organizations.

    • Diversify your income streams to reduce financial risk.

  • 3. Contingency Plan (Plan B)

    • Anticipate scenarios where funding decreases or changes.

    • Establish a contingency fund, cut unnecessary expenses, or temporarily scale down operations.

  • 4. Expenditure structure and financial management

    • Transparent budget allocation: what percentage is allocated to charitable activities, and what percentage to operating costs, communications, and personnel.

    • Ensure compliance with legal accounting and financial reporting regulations.

  • 5. Human Resources Policy and the Role of the Fund Management Board

    • Determine a reasonable salary for employees (if applicable), prioritizing those with dedication and social experience.

    • The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing, approving plans, and ensuring the fund's operations are transparent and in accordance with its principles.

  • 6. Strategies for attracting and retaining sponsors

    • Build trust through financial transparency and regular reporting.

    • Maintain strong relationships with sponsors by updating them on results, showing appreciation, and inviting them to directly participate in practical activities.

    • Use digital media (website, social media) to expand your base of supporters.

  • 7. Measuring and evaluating effectiveness

    • Establish specific performance indicators: the number of people supported, the value of funding raised, or the social impact created.

    • Conduct annual reviews and adjust strategies as needed.

Part 2: Guide to Registering for Charitable Funds in the United States (Updated to Current Regulations)

Registering a charity in the United States requires thorough legal and financial preparation. If you want your organization to be officially recognized and exempt from taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), here is the basic process you need to understand:

1. Work with legal and financial experts.

  • Collaborate with a lawyer specializing in nonprofit organizations and an experienced 501(c)(3) accountant .

  • They will help you process complex documents, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.

2. Submit an application for incorporation.

  • First, you need to register your non-profit organization at the state level where you plan to operate.

  • The application typically includes: the organization's name, objectives, address, board of directors information, and articles of incorporation.

  • After state approval, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation .

3. Register for tax-exempt status with the IRS – 501(c)(3)

  • This is the most important step for the fund to be exempt from federal income tax .

  • You need to file Form 1023 (or Form 1023-EZ if your organization is smaller) with the IRS.

  • The application should detail the mission, organizational structure, financial activities, and fundraising plan.

  • Please refer to the application process and instructions on the official IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/application-process.

4. Please provide your Employer Identification Number (EIN).

  • After obtaining your operating license, you need to register your Employer Identification Number (EIN ) with the IRS using Form SS-4 .

  • An EIN helps organizations open bank accounts, file tax returns, and manage their finances legally.

5. Maintain legal compliance after accreditation.

  • Each year, the organization must submit financial statements and tax returns (Form 990) to maintain its 501(c)(3) status.

  • Your lawyer and accountant will guide you through updating your licenses, reporting activities, and conducting periodic audits.

Part 3: The Cost of Establishing a Charitable Foundation in the United States

Starting a charity requires not only dedication but also a solid financial foundation to sustain operations for at least the first year. Here's a practical overview of the expenses you need to prepare for:

1. Estimated operating costs for the first year.

  • You need to raise enough funds to cover all operating costs for the first 12 months , including legal, accounting, administrative, and facility expenses.

  • This helps the fund operate stably without relying entirely on short-term funding.

2. Initial legal registration costs

  • The filing fee for 501(c)(3) accreditation with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is approximately $700–$1,000 , depending on the size of the organization.

  • Fees for hiring lawyers and accountants specializing in non-profit organizations range from $2,000 to $4,000 , including drafting paperwork, reviewing articles of incorporation, and providing tax advice.

  • The cost of registering a business in a state is approximately $100–$500 , depending on the state's regulations.

3. Office and operating expenses

  • Rent or office space sharing, equipment, insurance, and basic utilities.

  • Savings can be made by working remotely, sharing workspace, or receiving sponsored space from community partners.

4. Additional permits and procedures

  • Some states and cities require a fundraising license or local business registration , which typically costs between $50 and $200 per year .

5. Rational expenditure structure after commencement of operations.

  • According to international standards, only about 20% of the fund's total expenditure should be allocated to administration and fundraising (personnel, communications, accounting, etc.).

  • Approximately 80% should be used directly for charitable purposes – this is also a criterion for evaluating the credibility and transparency of a fund.

Part 4: How to name your charity in a memorable and legal way.

Step 1: Choose a suitable and memorable name for your charity.

The name is the first impression a fund has of its mission – it not only reflects its mission but also helps make an impression and build trust with the community, donors, and partners. Choosing the right name will help you stand out and avoid confusion with other organizations.

Principles for choosing an effective charity name:

  • Clearly state the mission:

    • The name should reflect the fund's primary goal or area of ​​activity, for example: education, health, animals, environment, or community support.

    • For example, if the fund focuses on animal rescue, you could name it something like “Carrington Wildlife Rescue” or “Carrington Wildlife Home” .

  • Simple and easy to remember:

    • Avoid names that are too long or difficult to pronounce.

    • Prioritize phrases that are easily recognizable and evoke positive emotions.

  • Ensuring exclusivity:

    • Check if the name is already registered by looking it up at the Department of Commerce or the State Registry of Enterprises in the state where you live.

    • Each state in the US has an online portal for searching the names of businesses or non-profit organizations.

  • Comply with legal regulations regarding naming conventions:

    • Some words are restricted or prohibited from being used in organization names without special permission, such as "Bank," "Federal," "Insurance," or words with a government or financial connotation.

    • Have your lawyer or legal advisor review your application before submitting it.

Practical tip:

  • Check if the domain name (.org) or corresponding social media account is available for future communication.

  • If you plan to operate internationally, choose a name that is easy to read and understand for foreigners.

Step 2: Name your charity after yourself – when gratitude becomes your mission.

A common and meaningful way to name a charity is to use the name of an individual . This gives the organization a deeply humanistic feel, while also making supporters feel closer and more connected to your goals.

When should you consider naming a fund after a person?

  • Remembering a loved one or someone who inspired you:

    • The fund was established to continue the dreams or honor a deceased person, such as a relative, friend, or someone who made a significant contribution to the community.

    • For example: “Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation” – this foundation is named after the founder’s sister, who died of breast cancer at age 36.

  • Associated with reputable individuals in their field of activity:

    • If you or your family have made a positive contribution, using your real name can build trust and reputation for the fund.

  • Expressing gratitude to sponsors or founders:

    • Many funds are named after those who provided significant initial financial support, as a form of recognition and honor.

Things to note when choosing a personal name:

  • Ensure that the person whose name is being used gives written consent , especially if they are still alive.

  • If naming the house after a deceased person, it's advisable to consult with the family to show respect.

  • Keep the name short and easy to remember , avoiding confusion or duplication with other organizations.

  • Check the state's registration system to make sure the name isn't already in use .

Practical tip:

  • The individual's name should be accompanied by a phrase that reflects the mission, for example: "The Nguyen Van Nam Education Fund" or "Tran Family Foundation for Community Health" .

  • Combining personal meaning and social goals will give the fund its own unique identity, making it both touching and professional.

Part 5: How to effectively raise funds for charity

Step 1: Fundraising – The main lifeblood of every charity.

For any charity, fundraising is the "heart" that sustains its mission and community activities. Building an effective fundraising strategy not only creates a stable source of funding but also helps spread the organization's image and values ​​to a wider audience.

1. Identify the primary source of revenue.

  • The majority of the fund's income will come from fundraising and soliciting donations .

  • You need to maintain regular connections with individual donors, businesses , and the online community to foster long-term trust and support.

2. Common fundraising methods

  • Live events: Organize community-engaging activities such as:

    • Charity Marathon

    • Charity gala

    • A closed auction or art sale.

    • A fundraising dinner, concert, or golf tournament.

  • Online campaign:

    • Create an official website and social media pages to share your story, mission, and tangible results.

    • Post videos or documentaries on YouTube to inspire and provide transparent evidence of the fund's activities.

    • Use platforms like GoFundMe, Patreon, or Facebook Fundraiser to solicit global donations.

    • Sending press releases to the media helps to attract attention and increase credibility.

3. Comply with legal regulations regarding fundraising.

  • Before undertaking any fundraising activities, consult with your lawyer and accountant .

  • Some states or countries require a legal fundraising license , especially if you solicit donations publicly or online.

  • Complying with regulations helps the fund avoid penalties and strengthens its reputation with donors.

4. Maintain momentum and transparency.

  • Always remember the original reason you founded the fund — that is the greatest source of inspiration in every fundraising campaign.

  • Publicly disclosing financial reports, providing progress updates, and showing appreciation to contributors are essential for building lasting trust.

Step 2: Apply for Grant – Strategic funding for the charity.

Besides crowdfunding, soliciting grants is an effective and professional way to expand funding for charities, especially in their early years. This is a method used by many large foundations in the US for sustainable growth.

1. Find suitable funding sources.

  • Look for organizations, foundations, or government agencies that have programs supporting areas similar to your mission (education, health, environmental protection, poverty alleviation, etc.).

  • A reliable source for information: www.grants.gov — the official U.S. government portal, where you can find thousands of grant opportunities for non-profit organizations.

  • Additionally, consider private funds, international organizations, or businesses with corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

2. Emphasize the fund's unique selling points when applying for funding.

  • Clearly articulate your mission , social impact , and how you will use the funding in a transparent and effective manner.

  • Highlight the unique aspects of your organization – for example, innovative support methods, a distinctive community model, or tangible results you have achieved.

  • Provide a detailed budget plan , along with a commitment to reporting progress and demonstrating results.

3. Prepare a professional grant application.

  • The file typically includes:

    • Introduction to the organization (mission statement, history of operations, organizational structure).

    • The specific objectives of the project requiring funding.

    • Implementation plan and cost estimate.

    • Transparent financial reporting (if already in operation).

  • If you're not confident in writing your application, consider hiring a professional grant writer —they understand how to present information persuasively and meet the sponsor's requirements.

4. Follow up and maintain relationships after receiving funding.

  • Always report on progress and the effectiveness of fund utilization on time .

  • Thanking and maintaining long-term contact with the sponsoring organization will increase your chances of receiving support in future years.

Part 6: The Role of the Board of Directors in Nonprofit Organizations

Step 1: Can you run a non-profit organization yourself?

The answer is that it's impossible to run it alone legally . According to regulations in most US states (and many other countries), a non-profit organization or charity is required to have a Board of Directors to ensure transparency, democracy, and accountability in its operations.

1. Reasons for having a Board of Directors

  • Legal requirements: Most states require at least three independent members on the Board of Directors when applying for legal entity status or a 501(c)(3) exemption.

  • Effective management: The board helps you make strategic decisions, oversee finances, and ensure funds stay on track.

  • Building trust with donors: An organization with a clear governance structure will be seen as more trustworthy and professional in the eyes of the community and funding organizations.

2. Composition and Role of the Board of Directors

  • It is advisable to choose individuals with experience in philanthropy, finance, management, or fundraising.

  • The council has the following responsibilities:

    • Establish committees to be responsible for each area: finance, human resources, strategy, fundraising, communications, etc.

    • Approve budgets, oversee finances , and ensure all operations comply with the law.

    • Long-term development strategy for the organization.

3. The Role of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO/Founder)

  • The founder (you) typically holds the position of CEO or Executive Director and may also serve on the Board of Directors .

  • However, to avoid conflicts of interest, you should maintain a non-voting member status .

  • The board will oversee the work, approve the CEO's salary and responsibilities , and ensure transparency in all operations.

4. Establish an Advisory Board

  • In addition to the Board of Directors, you can establish an Advisory Board , comprised of volunteers or reputable experts in your field.

  • They don't have official decision-making power , but they offer expert opinions on issues such as development strategy, fundraising, communications, and personnel.

A charitable organization cannot operate alone ; it needs a leadership team with expertise, dedication, and responsibility. This is not only a legal requirement but also the foundation of credibility and sustainability for any non-profit organization.

Step 2: Volunteers – the heart and soul of every charity.

No charity can operate effectively without volunteers . They are the people who contribute their time, energy, and heart to help the organization fulfill its mission—from assisting with administrative tasks to organizing community programs.

1. The role of volunteers in charitable organizations

  • Administrative support: Assisting with paperwork, data processing, or social media management, helping to save on operating costs.

  • Organizing and coordinating fundraising events: They are the main force in activities such as charity runs, fairs, auctions, or community programs.

  • Spreading the mission: Volunteers are the most natural "brand ambassadors," helping the fund gain wider recognition in the community.

2. How to manage and motivate volunteers

  • Clear training and assignment of tasks: Help them understand the fund's mission, their role, and how to collaborate effectively with the permanent team.

  • Show your appreciation:

    • Provide meals and drinks when they participate in the event.

    • Give gifts such as T-shirts, badges, or souvenirs bearing the fund's logo.

    • Public recognition can be given on the organization's website, social media, or in its annual report.

  • Maintain regular contact: Send thank-you letters and updates on the project's progress so they can see that their efforts are creating tangible value.

3. Benefits of building a strong volunteer community

  • This helps the fund save significantly on operating costs.

  • Increase engagement and spread the mission to a wider range of society.

  • Creating a pool of potential talent for future permanent positions.

Volunteers are not just "helpers"—they are part of the foundation's soul , a bridge between the organization and the community. How you treat, recognize, and inspire them will determine the long-term vitality of the charity.

Part 7: Do founders of charitable foundations receive a salary?

The answer is yes , you are absolutely allowed to receive a salary if you are directly involved in managing and working for the organization. However, this salary must be reasonable and transparent , ensuring compliance with the law and tax authorities.

1. When can the founder receive a salary?

  • When you are involved in the operation, management, or professional work of an organization (e.g., CEO, project manager, accountant...).

  • Salaries should be clearly stated in the fund's financial plan and operational reports .

  • Employees are not allowed to "pay themselves" without approval from the Board of Directors or the Supervisory Board .

2. Regulations on fair compensation

  • Salaries should be commensurate with the job and the general standards of the non-profit sector .

  • The amount paid must not exceed what a similar organization would pay for the same position.

  • If salaries are deemed "too high" according to regulations, the entire organization may be fined or lose its tax-exempt status .

3. Transparent salary approval process

  • The Board of Directors or an independent human resources committee must review and approve the founder's salary.

  • The approval process requires meeting minutes, supporting documents, and comparative data to ensure objectivity.

  • All compensation must be disclosed in the annual financial report .

4. Practical notes:

  • If the fund is newly established, you can choose to accept a lower salary or temporarily defer salary payments to prioritize funding for initial operations.

  • When an organization develops steadily, fair compensation helps retain a professional workforce, avoiding the situation of "volunteering but becoming exhausted."

Part 8: Social Media Strategies to Spread Your Philanthropic Mission

Step 1: Build a website – the core foundation for the sustainable development of the charity.

A website is the "online face" of an organization, where you can communicate your mission, build trust, and connect strongly with the community . A well-designed website not only helps raise funds more effectively but also strengthens the foundation's credibility in the eyes of sponsors, partners, and volunteers.

1. Create a clear and inspiring "About Us" page.

  • State the foundation's mission and core values : Why did you establish the organization, who are you helping, and what is your long-term vision?

  • Present the information concisely and clearly, using familiar and authentic language .

  • Add team photos, real-life project examples, and stories of people helped to increase persuasiveness and emotional impact.

2. Update information regularly.

  • Post the latest news, events, fundraising campaigns, and activity results .

  • Sharing transparent financial reports helps donors feel confident about how their funds are being used.

  • Create a "Join Us" section to guide volunteers or sponsors on how to participate, donate, or collaborate.

3. Integrate online fundraising tools.

  • Add a prominent, easily visible "Donate Now" button on all pages.

  • Supports multiple payment methods (bank transfer, e-wallet, credit card).

  • Set up a system to automatically send confirmation and thank-you emails , demonstrating professionalism.

4. Ensure a good user experience.

  • The interface design is user-friendly, easy to read, and compatible with mobile phones .

  • Ensure fast page load speeds , as many people may access the site from mobile devices.

  • Use real images, short videos, and inspiring stories to touch the emotions of viewers.

5. SEO and Digital Communication

  • Optimize SEO with keywords such as: Vietnamese charity fund, online donations, volunteer work, community support.

  • Connect your website to Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Zalo OA to spread your campaign and drive traffic back to your website.

A website is not just a technological tool; it's a bridge connecting your heart to the community . If done correctly, it can be a foundation for your fund to grow, raise funds effectively, and maintain lasting trust with society.

Step 2: Increase awareness of the charity fund through social media.

In the digital age, social media is the most effective "loudspeaker" for charities to spread their mission, solicit support, and build a trusting community. Maintaining a positive, professional, and engaging presence on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn will help organizations achieve sustainable growth.

1. Maintain regular activity.

  • Post at least 2–3 times per week on topics such as fundraising campaigns, inspiring stories, volunteer work, or achievements.

  • Always respond to comments, messages, and shares from the community — this helps increase trust and engagement.

  • Live streaming during fundraising events or social activities creates a sense of transparency and intimacy.

2. Share content from similar organizations.

  • Collaborate with or tag organizations and individuals who share similar social goals to expand your reach.

  • Share their successful campaigns (with attribution), demonstrating a sense of community rather than competition.

3. Create inspiring content.

  • Use real photos, behind-the-scenes videos, stories of those helped , and thank-you notes from volunteers to create an emotional connection.

  • Alternate between communication, education, and action content, for example:

    • "The value of every dollar donated."

    • "A day with the volunteer team."

    • "How you can help change someone else's life."

4. Increase effectiveness using digital communication tools.

  • Use Facebook Ads or TikTok Ads for large fundraising campaigns.

  • Optimize your posts with relevant hashtags such as #CharityFund, #CommunitySupport, #VolunteerVN, and #GivingBack.

  • Monitor the engagement rate to adjust your content strategy.

5. Building a sustainable social brand.

  • Maintain a consistent tone : humane, sincere, and inspiring.

  • Always be transparent about the amount of money donated and how it is used , as this is key to maintaining long-term trust.

  • Create seasonal campaigns (e.g., "Sharing the Lunar New Year", "Summer of Love", "Back to School 2025").

Social media is not just a place to post news; it's a platform for building relationships and spreading trust . A proper communication strategy will help your fund not only gain recognition—but also long-term love and support .

Part 9: How to choose a philanthropic area that aligns with your personal passion

Step 1: Choose a field you are truly passionate about – a solid foundation for building a meaningful charity fund.

The first and most important thing when establishing a charity is to choose a goal that you are truly passionate about . This will not only help you maintain motivation throughout the long journey but also create sincerity, trust, and a strong ripple effect in the community.

1. Why is passion a key factor in the success of a charity?

  • Establishing and running a fund is a long, time-consuming, and laborious journey —only when you truly believe in your mission will you have the perseverance to overcome the challenges.

  • Passion helps you inspire volunteers, sponsors, and partners , making them willing to join you.

  • When you act on what you believe in, your decisions tend to be more authentic, purposeful, and sustainable .

2. How to determine the field that suits you
Ask yourself these three questions:

  • If you could change one thing in the world, what would you change?

  • What motivates you to take action?

  • Do you have any experience, knowledge, or connections that could help you make an impact in that field?

3. Some practical examples:

  • If you are saddened to see poverty in your local area , consider setting up a fund to support the underprivileged, orphaned children, or elderly people living alone .

  • If you have ever witnessed a loved one suffer from a rare disease , you can raise funds to help cover treatment costs and raise public awareness .

  • If you love nature and animals, consider starting a wildlife conservation fund or rescuing abandoned pets .

  • If you are passionate about art, consider establishing a fund to support young artists, preserve folk culture, or foster community creativity .

  • If you want to contribute to a sustainable society, focus on the environment, education, or disaster response .

4. Practical notes:

  • Don't choose a field just because it's "easy to fundraise"—choose one because you're genuinely interested and willing to commit long-term .

  • Let's start with small issues, those close to our community , and then gradually expand the scope of our impact.

A successful charity isn't just about money or fame—it stems from the heart and belief of its founder. When you work for what you're passionate about, philanthropy ceases to be an obligation and becomes a life mission .

Step 2: Create a unique identity for your charity – the secret to making your organization stand out and be sustainable.

In reality, there are many non-profit organizations operating in the same field today. Therefore, to attract sponsors and build long-term credibility, your fund needs a "unique approach"—or a distinct identity . This is what will help you stand out among hundreds of other charitable organizations.

1. Why do charities need to be different?

  • If you do exactly the same as other funds, you'll face fierce competition for attention and funding .

  • A unique approach helps your fund make a strong impression and be more memorable.

  • The difference lies in strategic vision and creativity – two factors that are highly valued by sponsors, volunteers, and partners.

2. How to define a “unique niche” for your organization

  • Identify unmet needs within the community:
    For example, if there are already many organizations providing food for the homeless, you could choose to focus on clothing, vocational training, or psychological counseling for them.

  • Ask yourself: “What makes my approach different?” – This could be the way I operate, my target audience, or my fundraising methods.

  • Leverage your personal strengths: If you have expertise in the arts, technology, education, etc., use it to create a more effective and innovative support model.

  • Combining two fields: For example, "Art for the environment," "Education linked to sustainable agriculture," or "Technology supporting people with disabilities."

3. Raise funds in a different and memorable way.

  • Creating unique campaigns that go viral on social media – like the ALS Association's "Ice Bucket Challenge" – has created a global sensation.

  • Organize experiential events instead of just collecting donations, for example: "A Day to Live Like a Blind Person," "Art Exhibition for Children in Mountainous Areas."

  • Collaborate with KOLs, artists, or social enterprises to expand your reach and create a professional image.

4. Note the importance of differentiation while maintaining core values.

  • Being different doesn't mean "being unusual to attract attention," but rather creating practical solutions and delivering real impact .

  • All creative activities must be consistent with the original mission and comply with the law .

  • Maintain authenticity and transparency , because trust remains the most important element in charitable work.

Differentiation is the "golden key" to ensuring your charity is seen, trusted, and remembered for the long term . Start by thoroughly understanding the community you want to help, then create a unique solution that only your charity can provide .

References

  1. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/business-planning-nonprofits
  2. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/how-start-nonprofit-step-1-research
  3. https://www.nonprofitexpert.com/start-charity-know-basics/
  4. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/how-start-nonprofit-step-2-build-solid-foundation
  5. https://www.forbes.com/sites/allbusiness/2017/04/16/15-key-steps-to-set-up-a-charity/?sh=4b53bcbb54a5
  6. https://www.forbes.com/sites/steveodland/2012/05/07/how-to-start-a-charity/?sh=43325bed5277
  7. https://aaronhall.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-set-up-a-501c3-nonprofit-organization/
  8. https://komenoc.org/who-was-susan-g-komen/
  9. https://www.nonprofitexpert.com/how-to-apply-for-grants/
  10. https://www.inc.com/entrepreneurs-organization/want-to-change-lives-7-steps-to-starting-a-charitable-foundation.html
  11. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/board-roles-and-responsibilities
  12. https://boardsource.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Recommended-Gov-Practices.pdf
  13. https://managementhelp.org/misc/Nonprofit-Advisory-Board.pdf
  14. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/executive-compensation
  15. https://www.als.org/stories-news/ice-bucket-challenge-dramatically-accelerated-fight-against-als

Translated by Ashley Wright Nguyen .

Ian_Kroes_0e55f1e4-4e69-423c-bfd8-dd501a7ecb7f-Tiptory
Rob Wu Crowdfunding expert

Rob Wu is the CEO of CauseVox, an online fundraising platform that supports non-profit organizations. He has raised over $200,000 for community projects and has been recognized by CNN, the Christian Science Monitor, and the Wall Street Journal.

Updated on Ngày 16 tháng 07 năm 2026 (GMT +7)

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Ban đầu tôi đăng bài kêu gọi quyên góp, nội dung chỉnh chu, hình ảnh xúc động – nhưng tương tác lẹt đẹt. Sau đó, tôi thử livestream kể chuyện người được giúp, rồi tiện thể hát vài bài Bolero cho vui. Ai ngờ người xem tăng vọt, donate cũng tăng theo! Từ đó, tôi hiểu: gây quỹ không chỉ là kêu gọi, mà là kết nối cảm xúc. Cứ chân thật, vui vẻ, và có chút “duyên” là sẽ chạm được trái tim cộng đồng.

Trọng ĐạtOct 14, 2025

Tôi từng đặt tên quỹ là “Quỹ Bảo An Cộng Đồng” – nghe thì rất nhân văn, nhưng ai ngờ bị hiểu nhầm là công ty bảo hiểm. Inbox toàn hỏi mua gói sức khỏe! Sau vụ đó, tôi rút kinh nghiệm: tên quỹ phải rõ ràng, dễ hiểu, và tránh từ ngữ gây hiểu lầm. Giờ tôi đổi tên thành “Chia Sẻ Yêu Thương” – ai đọc cũng thấy ấm lòng, không còn nhầm lẫn nữa!

Dương DoãnOct 14, 2025

Lúc mới mở quỹ, tôi nghĩ đơn giản: có lòng tốt là đủ. Ai ngờ, làm từ thiện mà không biết quản lý tài chính thì dễ bị “tâm huyết bay màu” vì rối sổ sách. Sau một lần bị nhà tài trợ hỏi “tiền đi đâu về đâu”, tôi mới cuống cuồng học cách lập báo cáo chi tiết. Giờ thì tôi có thêm kỹ năng mới: vừa làm thiện nguyện, vừa cân đối ngân sách như dân tài chính chính hiệu!

Long NguyễnOct 13, 2025

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In-depth analysis and practical advice from leading experts.

You can certainly initiate a charity fund, but to operate legally and transparently, you need a Board of Directors with at least three independent members. This is a mandatory requirement in many countries, ensuring the fund is not controlled by individuals and building trust with the community and donors. Additionally, having partners will help you share the workload, make informed decisions, and maintain long-term stability for the organization.

Yes, if you are directly involved in the management and professional work of the fund, you can absolutely receive a salary. However, the salary must be approved by the Board of Directors, be reasonable compared to the general standards of the non-profit sector, and be transparently disclosed in the financial reports. Proper salary payment is not only legal but also helps maintain a professional team, avoiding the situation of "volunteering but exhausting."

When starting out, you should begin by sharing your fund's story and mission in an authentic and inspiring way. Leverage social media and organize community events such as charity runs, fairs, or online campaigns to attract attention. Don't forget to maintain financial transparency and provide regular updates to build trust. Additionally, you can seek funding from private or government sources by preparing a professional and clear grant application.

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