Preparing the exemption application doesn't mean designing programs, planning finances, structuring fundraising, or advising on operations. Those decisions come from you. Once your requirements are locked, I handle the full exemption application for Form 1023 or 1024, from formation through filing, start to finish.
But here's the deal: I'm extremely picky about which organizations I accept. Money has zero bearing on my decision. Every year I accept a handful of applications from mission-driven nonprofits actually doing real public good, not the kind that make me think jury duty is some all-expenses-paid vacation.
I've got three kids, and no amount of money is worth putting them second... unless you're Bill Gates. Then I got no kids and I'm wide open.
Causes I Prioritize
I focus on causes that actually move the needle. The kind where approval means lives change, not logos print:
- Children's advocacy and abuse prevention. Especially those with national reach.
- Disaster relief and humanitarian aid. Operating in high-conflict or underserved zones (think refugee camps, not East Hampton).
- Veterans' support. Don't insult them with handouts, give them what they're rightfully owed.
- Women's safety, rights, and economic empowerment. Tackling violence, healthcare access, or systemic inequality.
- Historical preservation. Heritage sites, museums, archives with clear public benefit.
- Environmental protection and sustainability. Groups with measurable impact and solid funding, not every "save the snails" foundation.
Who I Don't Work With
I've got zero interest in busywork, vanity projects, or moral theater:
- Founders wanting fast, cheap, and good. Pick one.
- Those who already paid $3k for a mess. I won't fix it cheaper.
- Mega churches: charlatans. Jesus didn't sell salvation with a side of cable time.
- Political organizations: left or right. I don't have time for your partisan circus.
- Arts foundations. Pollock and my 3-year-old's paintings look the same to me.
- "Just get my foot in the door" types. I don't twist the truth to get you exempt.
If your nonprofit belongs on the shortlist, send a message and make your case. If you don't meet these criteria, don't take it personally. You can still use the templates and book an Application Review so I can make sure you don't walk into a buzzsaw.