Information needed to open shelter

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Question

Country: United States of America
State: Colorado

I would like to open a shelter for individuals who migrate to this state, as well as those residents who for whatever reason need temporary lodging until they get on or back on their feet. Also, included would be a restaurant on the grounds to supply temporary employment for those who may need some form of job reference while they wait for more permanent housing. What would I (the director) need to do to bring all of this to a reality?

Answer

If you want it to be non-profit and tax exempt you would need to file and get tax -exempt status first. You need some kind of business plan and you may want to speak with others that are doing similar things first to get some ideas of the issues they have faced as well.