Winter is a remarkably charitable season. There are thousands of charities around the world hoping to improve society one way or another, and they organize drives, events, and trips to promote their causes. In winter, we are prompted to reflect on how we can help our neighbors as well as individuals around the globe. During this time, if you find you are passionate about a cause and want to get involved, starting your own charity may be something worth considering.

Identify Your Cause

Most individuals find that they are passionate about numerous things, but when it comes to starting a charity, chances are you will need to narrow your focus. Find one thing that is relevant and actionable. When you identify something that suits your resources, evokes your passion, and can be impacted by your efforts, you will have the basis for your charity.

Craft a Mission Statement

Now that you know what you are supporting, it’s time to let the world know. When crafting your charity’s mission statement, it is wise to be both succinct and descriptive. Broad or vague mission statements fail to convey the passion behind the organization, and lengthy mission statements tend to reduce the impact of the charity’s goals. Find a sweet spot: you will want to include your charity’s name, goal, and simple paths toward achieving it.

Organize A Team

Utilize your existing professional and personal networks to find individuals who are interested in the cause and have relevant skills. Your team should be composed of compassionate, skilled individuals who can work with you to fulfill the charity’s mission and constructively shape the charity as it grows.

Garner Support

Depending on the scale of your charity, you may turn to your local area to find individuals interested in supporting your cause; reach out to local publications or talk to your neighbors, local board, and other people in your community. If you are looking to enact change on a larger scale, the good news is that it is easier now than ever to reach a global audience. Through internet platforms and social media sites, you can connect with individuals who share your passion. Whether you are seeking financial aid, volunteers, or people to spread the word, getting support for your charity is a crucial step.