A lot of people think starting a nonprofit is some big complicated thing. Paperwork. Lawyers. Fancy suits. It doesn’t have to be that deep. If you’ve got a clear mission and a plan to make an impact, you’re already halfway there.

When I started Holy Hoops, I didn’t know everything. What I did know was that I wanted to raise money for a cause I cared about, bring people together through basketball, and show what happens when young people lead. That’s what a nonprofit is. A mission with structure. A goal that serves others.

The key is to stay focused on the people you want to help. Most people try to make their nonprofit look good before they actually do good. Start with action. Prove you can execute. Build the brand as you go. Nobody cares what your board looks like if you’re not getting results.

Figure out how you’re going to raise money. Sell shirts. Run events. Ask businesses for support. Don’t be afraid to get creative. Holy Hoops started as a one-day event and turned into a movement because we weren’t scared to try new things and keep growing.

You don’t need permission to serve your community. Just start. Be organized. Be clear about where the money goes. Keep receipts. Keep people updated. And stay locked into why you’re doing it. The rest will follow.