Starting a
NON-PROFIT CHAPTER
with Madhatter Knits
WE AIM TO CREATE COMMUNITY
LEADERS, COLLABORATORS, & INFLUENCERS.
We serve communities through regional chapters and campus chapters. Each regional or campus chapter is led by a Chapter Director, who is appointed by Madhatter Knits through an application process. To learn more about this opportunity, keep reading. If there's already a campus chapter or regional chapter established in your area, you can register to receive email notification of upcoming volunteer opportunities with that chapter and explore our other opportunities.
Madhatter Knits seek volunteers that want to create an entity beyond themselves, to establish chapters that live on even when the originator steps away from leadership. We strive to reach as many preemies as possible, so our chapters need to operate on a long-term vision as well.
Starting a Chapter
Taking those first steps in turning your ideas into reality
STEP
01
WHAT AM I GETTING INTO? Chapter organizations are established under the umbrella of our parent 501(c)(3) organization. They will have their own board, and operate independently, while remaining their own entity.
STEP
02
IS THIS FOR ME? Identify with our mission. Relate to the skill and qualities needed to be a good chapter leader.
STEP
03
PLANNING: Define the goal and the activities for the chapter. Figure out ideas for discussions and meetings.
THE PAPERWORK: Go to the link below and fill out the required forms for chapter application.
STEP
04
THE TEAM: Find trustworthy candidates for your Board and recruit members who share the same interests for the chapter.
STEP
05
STEP
06
REACH THE RIGHT AUDIENCE: Identify three key audiences to help meet the mission.
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People who might need our services
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Potential donors
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Staff, board members, and volunteers
STEP
07
KNOW HOW TO ASK AND SAY THANKS: A great nonprofit leader will tell you why they need their help or why it needs your money and how it will be spent. Donor and volunteer recognition is appropriate.
STEP
08
COMMITTING TO EXCELLENCE: Go to the link below and fill out the required forms for chapter application.
STEP
09
THE CHAPTER: Promote your chapter to get the ball rolling, but most importantly enjoy and have fun!
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A CHAPTER LEADER?
"Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others"
-Booker T. Washington
SKILL & QUALITIES NEEDED
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Takes initiative
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Sets goals
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Resourceful, creative
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Eager learner
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Respectful persistence
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Entrepreneurial
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Effective time management
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Powerful communicator: persuasive, concise, uses proper grammar & punctuation
CURRENT CHAPTER DIRECTORS SAY
These skills have been integral to their success:
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Fundraising
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Organization
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Ability to interact on an executive level
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Team leadership, delegation, & recruitment
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Knowledge of public relations & social media
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Strong verbal communication
CAMPUS CHAPTER VS. REGIONAL CHAPTER
What is the difference?
A Madhatter Knits regional chapter is an active group of individuals who are ready to take the next step to lead the charge in their community to help fulfill Madhatter Knits' mission. Become a leader by starting Madhatter Knits in your region or state. Regional chapters are the heart of mobilizing our organization's initiatives.
A Madhatter Knits campus chapter is a group of students who are passionate about making an impact to help premature babies. Chapters are student-run, student-led organizations on high school and college campuses that partner with Madhatter Knits in their area to perform four main functions: service, fundraising, education and advocacy
What do they do?
1. Educate and advocate students about Madhatter Knits' mission
2. Identify a core group of interested students and get them involved
3. Set up regular weekly meetings with your heads and members
4. Donate your club's knitted beanies to local hospitals with a NICU department (contact us for more info)
1. Spearhead Madhatter Knits' activity in your region or state.
2. Manage your team’s outreach and donations schedule, as well as conducting outreach and donations of your own.
3. Attend meetings and schedule check-ins with our directors.
4. Continuously solicit interest from local students and grow your chapter!
How do I start a chapter?
Apply to become a regional chapter director down below, and we will contact you soon!
Apply to become a campus chapter head down below, and we will contact you soon!
Any questions about starting a chapter? Feel free to contact us at info@madhatterknits.org or message us through social media!