I've printed all kinds of good information about how to start a non-profit organization off the internet, so I'm pretty clear on what I need to do. I was happy to know it is a $ 25 fee to file for incorporation for non-profits, and not $ 300, like I thought. I'm just so excited about finally doing this -- even on a very small scale, I know I can make a difference.
The hardest thing I'm going to have to learn is how to say, "no", when I am filled up and someone wants to surrender their ferret. And the second hardest thing will be letting one go to a new forever home. As long I keep the awareness of that in front of me, I'll be OK. It's that "catching me off guard" thing I need to worry about.
The other thing I'm kind of worried about is, will my friends in HAFA support this? We have one rescue we are loyal to - in fact I am quite involved and still wish to remain so. I emailed the director of HAFA and the president of the rescue last night and told them what I want to do. No word back yet--so I hope I haven't done something inappropriate....I hope they don't tell me to go find someone else to play with.. :/
There are so many things I *could* say ...
10 years ago
The two concerns you have are the very ones that would be at the top of my list, as well (as well as trying to afford all the vet care, too).
ReplyDeleteBut why would anyone have a problem with you being a small scale shelter (I take it HAFA is the Houston Ferret Assoc., right?). I would think it'd be "the more the merrier", you know?
I wish you lots of luck with the shelter. I am sure HAFA wouldn't mind- you are all working towards the same goal after all, looking after fuzzies and finding them a new home.
ReplyDeleteMy two boys came from a rescue centre in Surrey UK, and had already gone from their first family home to a shelter, then to another shelter, poor boys, and they were only 9 months old when we got them. The difference in them now, a year on from when we first got them is amazing. They no longer bite us (and believe you me, they were fiesty biters!)and trust us completely. They will lay in my arms being stroked for ages, and sometimes fall asleep. They both give me little kisses now, and now love bouncing all over the place- something we never saw at the beginning.
Ferret rescues do so much good work. I can't imagine being without my boys now.
Love to your fuzzies from Simon and Alvin!
Thanks to you both for the encouraging words. I don't know why I'm so worried about not being approved of by HAFA. You are right, it's everyone working toward the same goal!
ReplyDeleteHaven't heard anything back yet...