501(c) & Nonprofit Hub
A home for community organizations. Find local nonprofits, access formation guides, explore funding resources, and connect with partners doing good work in our region.
Nonprofit Directory
16 organizations found
Community Connections
Connecting neighbors through blessing boxes, little free libraries, and community resource networks across Upstate South Carolina.
Community Tree 1
Changing one heart and one mind at a time for a better tomorrow.
Westminster Senior Center — AT Caywood Outreach
Helping seniors stay active through fitness programs, combating loneliness by fostering social connections, and providing access to essential resources like food assistance.
Tribble Center
Dedicated to improving the lives of advocates with disabilities and special needs through comprehensive, person-centered services that promote independence, inclusion, and self-determination.
Our Greater Good — Oconee County
Strengthening families and helping children in Oconee County reach their full potential. All initiatives are delivered FREE OF CHARGE to families, children, parents, and educators.
Oconee First Steps
Partnering with organizations that specialize in School Transition, Quality Child Care, Early Education, Healthy Start, and Early Intervention to accomplish the overall goal of school readiness.
Lucky Pup Rescue SC
A 501(c)(3) foster-based dog rescue committed to saving homeless dogs through community outreach and matching dogs to the perfect adopter.
Golden Corner Food Pantry
Provides emergency and supplemental food assistance to low-income Oconee County families.
Tamassee DAR School
Strengthens children and families through residential care, family support, and education services.
Oconee County Habitat for Humanity
Builds affordable housing and promotes homeownership opportunities for Oconee County residents.
Foothills Care Center
Provides support, education, and pregnancy-related services for women and families.
The Arc of Oconee County
Advocates for and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Oconee County Humane Society
Promotes animal welfare through adoption, education, and rescue efforts.
Foothills Area YMCA
Builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
United Way of Oconee County
Mobilizes community resources to improve education, health, and financial stability across Oconee County.
Hospice of the Foothills Foundation
Supports hospice and palliative care services for patients and families in the Foothills region.
How to Form a 501(c)(3)
The path to nonprofit status has clear steps. Here's what to expect — from idea to IRS approval.
Define Your Mission
Clarify your purpose, the community you serve, and the specific problem you're solving. A clear mission guides every decision ahead.
Form a Board of Directors
Recruit at least 3 board members (most states require this). Look for diverse skills: legal, financial, community knowledge, and lived experience.
Incorporate in Your State
File Articles of Incorporation with your state's Secretary of State office. This creates your legal entity and is required before applying for federal status.
Draft Bylaws
Create governing documents that outline how your organization operates — board meetings, voting, officer roles, and conflict of interest policies.
Apply for an EIN
Get a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS (Form SS-4 or online). You'll need this for banking, taxes, and your 501(c)(3) application.
File for 501(c)(3) Status
Submit IRS Form 1023-EZ (for smaller orgs) or Form 1023. Filing fees apply. Approval typically takes 3–6 months. Consider consulting a nonprofit attorney.
Register in Your State
Most states require separate charitable solicitation registration before you can fundraise. Check your state's requirements — deadlines vary.
Open a Bank Account & Start Operating
Open a dedicated organizational bank account. Set up basic financial controls, begin programming, and file annual Form 990 returns with the IRS.
This is a general overview. Requirements vary by state. Consult a nonprofit attorney or CPA for guidance specific to your situation.
Nonprofit Resources
Trusted tools, databases, and organizations to help you start, grow, and sustain your nonprofit.
IRS 501(c)(3) Application Guide
Step-by-step instructions for filing Form 1023 or 1023-EZ to obtain federal tax-exempt status.
National Council of Nonprofits
Resources, tools, and advocacy for nonprofits of all sizes. Includes state-specific guidance.
Candid (GuideStar)
Research nonprofits, find funders, and access Form 990 data. Essential for due diligence and grant research.
Foundation Center Grants Database
Search thousands of grant opportunities by focus area, geography, and funder type.
BoardSource — Nonprofit Governance
Tools and training for building effective nonprofit boards. Templates, assessments, and best practices.
TechSoup — Nonprofit Tech Discounts
Discounted software, hardware, and cloud services for nonprofits. Microsoft, Adobe, Salesforce, and more.
Nonprofit Finance Fund
Financial management resources, tools, and consulting for nonprofits navigating sustainability.
VolunteerMatch — Volunteer Recruitment
Post volunteer opportunities and connect with skilled volunteers in your community.
Partner With Us
We actively seek partnerships with organizations that share our values.