A Day in the Life of a Founder: What it Really Looks Like to Start a Nonprofit

We’ve all seen the glossy images of well-dressed entrepreneurs and founders smiling with their arms folded across their chests, standing in front of a stunning, bright backdrop. Their flawless, user-friendly websites come complete with well-defined mission statements and empowering founder bios. It’s truly inspiring, to say the least.

But what we don’t see are the everyday hardship they face, possible ridicule, and tireless work. We don’t see their baggy eyes caused by sleepless nights from reworking workshops and program details to ensure that they adhere to core values. We don’t see all the requests for support - emails and letters - that are sent without response. We don’t see how they uplift and encourage staff even when they feel discouraged. And behind the tailored appearances, we don’t even see the moments of weakness and self-doubt that they have to overcome.?

Yet, it's all there, and I know this first hand.?

What you do get to see (and enjoy) is an intentional organization with dedicated members, eager participants and an infrastructure of programming designed to carry out a specific vision and serve for generations to come. If you’ve ever had a dream to establish a nonprofit organization, let’s go behind the curtain for a realistic peek into the ongoing, offstage work needed to keep the machine gears going.?

Let’s take it back a bit.

In 2017 while living in Harlem, I founded Free Juice - a collective originally established as a community-based initiative that would unite creatives of color with a focus on entrepreneurship and self-sustainability. By March 2022, a featured article in Medium helped us launch into the next phase as a fully-functioning nonprofit.?

In the midst of this pivotal shift, I was still working as a full-time Photography professional balancing several projects across a variety of industries and brands. It quickly became apparent that my attention couldn’t be divided if I wanted to best meet the constant demands of growing and operating a new organization. In August 2023, I transitioned my career to dedicate all my efforts to building Free Juice. Let me paint a picture of what that journey looks like.?

Between 2021 and 2022, I approached this new endeavor with naivety regarding nonprofit operations. Establishing it as a 501(c) seemed logical as I hoped to easily attract government support and financial aid. These misconceptions of a seamless process often lead to a drop-off in pursuit. The digital world doesn’t help either. With so many overnight success stories lining your social media feed, aspiring leaders may often buy too much into the perceived success without considering the not-so-pretty groundwork.? Take my word, this is not an A-Z process from filing to launching - especially if you’re in it for the right reason and for the long haul.??

For the past year or so, my days have been focused on strengthening and developing the foundation of Free Juice. Initially, my sole intention was community building because I have a natural skill for bringing people together. But reality knocked on my door and let itself in with a laundry list of to-dos that required my attention… every day.

A typical morning consists of responding to several emails (responsiveness is key to relationship building); holding partnership meetings (because our community goes beyond the Free Juice walls); and touching base with mentors and board members to ensure our visions align for whichever new task is at hand (because this is a team-minded operation).?

With every incoming cohort, we have to onboard new aspiring photographers while interviewing and welcoming new industry mentors. Our curriculums are consistently revised and refined to meet the career and mentorship needs for our cohort members. Each committee has meetings, problems that require a think-tank to troubleshoot, and new ideas that deserve to be put into action. In the midst of it all, every person that works with us should feel seen and regarded as a valued piece to our puzzle. We prioritize their well-being and mental health first.?

Yes. I am a very active and present part of it all.?

No. It’s not because I’m a micromanager who doesn't trust my team to do what they do best nor am I reluctant to delegate tasks.?

I am simply one who believes in service-centered leadership. With Free Juice still in its early years, it’s crucial that I gain as much understanding about every aspect of the organization to develop new skills and learn from others to become a better resource. Over the past few weeks (and as we move forward) the team has been actively cultivating partnerships with individuals, organizations, and companies who share our vision of advancing diversity in the industry. Everyone, including myself, has rolled up their sleeves to take on responsibilities to fill in the gaps. For example, my role as founder now also includes fundraising - something I have no inkling for. However, securing financial backing remains a key priority for us and we're optimistic that we’ll secure the person (or people) who will align with our mission and provide the financial backing needed to support our? work.

This endeavor truly demands a full-time commitment. I can’t even sugarcoat for you.?

Balancing the management of teams including board members, cohort participants, and partners, not to mention coordinating numerous meetings, while ensuring everyone stays on track, has been quite demanding. However, these challenges are an inevitable part of my life as a trailblazer who’s championing life, equity, and sustainability, particularly for underserved communities and underrepresented artists of color in the realms of photo innovation and leadership initiatives. And if you are walking in your purpose with a goal to become a founder, you too will also be presented with a set of challenges to work through.?

With everything required of me, I make it a point to prioritize moments of respite so that I can be primed for service. Even on the busiest days, I carve out time for personal rituals in both the morning and afternoon. I vary from brisk morning runs, moments of stillness, a calming stroll, tending to my garden, or having meaningful conversations with loved ones.? Workouts and meditation anchor my day.

Being consistent with your personal care while managing a professional life is paramount for maintaining your overall health. And when needed, don’t be too busy to block out moments on your calendar for a reset. Having a strong team and effective systems in place to support the organization in your absence, will make it easier for you to do so.?

I can’t say it enough, I am truly thankful for the unwavering support of our outstanding board and dedicated volunteers.? Because of their tireless work, we've achieved significant milestones.?

I still freelance, albeit selectively, to maintain focus. I am a creative at heart and that passion just doesn’t fade away with my new leadership responsibilities. This is something that also needs attention - personal interests and passions outside of your career. For those of us who have relationships and family commitments, we have to tend to that as well. But don’t feel bogged down - this work does bring many rewarding benefits. It is a transformative path that afforded me the freedom to shape my days and explore emerging talents. Each day presents new challenges, but I embrace them with anticipation, knowing they propel me toward my purpose.

Are you interested in supporting our cause? Visit www.freejuice.info to learn more about how you can contribute to propel us forward. Or you can leave us a comment below.

In the meantime, stay tuned as we'll soon be unveiling the names of our partners for Free Juice University. ????