Nonprofit Basics Part I: There are six components that comprise a nonprofit: Legalities, Board Governance, Image Management, Resource Development, Strategic Planning and Program Impact. All six are critical to the long-term health and well-being of a nonprofit. I urge nonprofits to get more information about all of these on our website so that your nonprofit can start well, get healthy and be sustainable.

The first component we'll cover briefly here is Legalities:

1. Ensure you obtain and retain your 501c3 tax exempt status.

2. Document, document, document your internal and governance documents such as bylaws and policy and procedures and FOLLOW THEM.

3. Get those professional partners in place and lean into them when you need help -- accountant, attorney, insurance agent and banker.