Georgia’s nonprofit sector stands as a powerful force for good across the state, from the bustling streets of Atlanta to the serene coastal communities and everywhere.
These mission-driven organizations address critical needs, strengthen communities, and provide essential services to millions of Georgians.
Whether you’re looking to support a cause close to your heart, volunteer your time, or learn how to start nonprofit organizations in Georgia yourself, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Georgia’s Nonprofit Landscape: An Overview
The Peach State boasts a robust ecosystem of more than 38,000 registered nonprofit groups that employ upwards of 270,000 people and pump some $51 billion into the state’s economy annually.
From small, all-volunteer community groups to sprawling institutions with multi-million-dollar budgets, Georgia’s nonprofit community reflects its population’s diverse interests and needs.
What makes Georgia’s nonprofit sector unique? The state’s mix of urban and rural communities offers particular challenges and opportunities.
Organizations that serve metropolitan Atlanta work under circumstances different from those who labor in the rural South or along the coast.
Nevertheless, they share a common dedication to improving life for Georgians through creative and committed service.
Best Nonprofit Organizations in Georgia: Making a Difference
10 Best Nonprofit Organizations in Georgia
These organizations consistently demonstrate excellence in mission fulfillment, financial stewardship, and community impact:
- Atlanta Community Food Bank
Website: https://acfb.org
Providing over 67 million meals annually to 29 counties, the Atlanta Community Food Bank fights hunger through innovative programs and steadfast alliances with the community. - Georgia Center for Nonprofits
Website: https://gcn.org
More than an organization of assistance, GCN benefits the whole nonprofit sector through training, consulting, research, and advocacy, enriching the sector’s work statewide. - The Carter Center
Website: https://cartercenter.org
Founded by former President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, this internationally renowned organization advocates for peace and health throughout the world while remaining firmly grounded in Georgia. - Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Website: https://choa.org
Providing specialized children’s care in three hospitals and 27 neighborhood offices, CHOA cares for more than 400,000 individual patients annually with outstanding compassion and clinical skill. - Georgia Conservancy
Website: https://georgiaconservancy.org
Providing specialized children’s care in three hospitals and 27 neighborhood offices, CHOA cares for more than 400,000 individual patients annually with outstanding compassion and clinical skill. - United Way of Greater Atlanta
Website: https://unitedwayatlanta.org
Influencing over 4.5 million people annually, United Way confronts difficult issues with collective solutions in education, income, and health. - Atlanta Habitat for Humanity
Website: https://atlantahabitat.org
Building beyond houses, Atlanta Habitat creates affordable homeownership opportunities and neighborhood revitalization while providing education and support to homeowners. - Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice
Website: https://gaappleseed.org
Using the power of volunteer lawyers and community partners, this organization drives systemic change for children and families through research-based policy reform. - Trees Atlanta
Website: https://treesatlanta.org
Working to reverse Atlanta’s loss of tree canopy through planting, conservation, and education, Trees Atlanta has planted over 150,000 trees in the city since 1985. - Atlanta Mission
Website: https://atlantamission.org
As the largest homeless services agency in the city, Atlanta Mission offers emergency shelter, transitional living, job attainment, and addiction recovery programs.
Largest Nonprofits in Atlanta
Beyond the top ten list, these major organizations shape Atlanta’s nonprofit landscape:
- Grady Health System Foundation
Website: https://gradyhealthfoundation.org
Supporting Grady Memorial Hospital’s critical role as Georgia’s largest public hospital and premier Level I trauma center. - Woodruff Arts Center
Website: https://woodruffcenter.org
Housing the Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and High Museum of Art while serving as the region’s cornerstone for cultural expression. - Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta
Website: https://bgcma.org
Providing safe spaces, caring mentors, and life-enhancing programs to more than 7,000 young people across 20+ locations. - Mercy Care
Website: https://mercyatlanta.org
Delivering comprehensive health services to the homeless and uninsured through fixed and mobile clinics throughout the metro area.
Non Profit Organizations in Atlanta for Community Service
Atlanta’s community service sector offers diverse opportunities for volunteer engagement:
- Hands On Atlanta
Website: https://handsonatlanta.org
Connecting volunteers with over 400 service projects monthly and mobilizing 60,000+ volunteers annually. - Open Hand Atlanta
Website: https://openhandatlanta.org
Preparing and delivering over 5,000 nutritious meals daily to homebound seniors, chronically ill individuals, and those at risk for foodborne illness. - Community Bucket
Website: https://communitybucket.org
Creating social volunteer experiences that combine service projects with social gatherings for young professionals. - Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation
Website: https://avlf.org
Coordinating volunteer attorneys to provide free legal services for Atlantans facing tenant-landlord disputes, domestic violence, and other civil legal challenges.
List of Non Profit Organizations in Georgia by Region
Metro Atlanta
Beyond the organizations already mentioned, Metro Atlanta hosts thousands of nonprofits addressing diverse needs:
- Georgia Equality
Website: https://georgiaequality.org
Advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and protections through education, policy advocacy, and community empowerment. - Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs
Website: https://aceloans.org
Providing loans and business development resources to entrepreneurs historically excluded from traditional financing. - Latin American Association
Website: https://thelaa.org
Empowering Latinos through immigration services, family well-being programs, and economic advancement initiatives. - Wholesome Wave Georgia
Website: https://wholesomewavegeorgia.org
Increasing access to fresh, healthy food for SNAP recipients through farmers’ market incentive programs.
North Georgia
- Georgia Mountain Food Bank
Website: https://gamountainfoodbank.org
Serving Hall, Forsyth, Dawson, Lumpkin, and Union counties with food distribution and hunger relief programs. - Habitat for Humanity of North Central Georgia
Website: https://habitat-ncg.org
Building affordable housing across Cherokee, North Fulton, Forsyth, and Dawson counties. - North Georgia Community Foundation
Website: https://ngcf.org
Supporting charitable organizations across 15 counties through grants, endowment management, and philanthropy services.
Central Georgia
- United Way of Central Georgia
Website: https://unitedwaycg.org
Serving 14 counties with initiatives focused on education, economic mobility, and health. - Middle Georgia Community Food Bank
Website: https://mgcfb.org
Distributing millions of pounds of food annually to partner agencies across 24 counties. - Historic Macon Foundation
Website: https://historicmacon.org
Revitalizing Macon’s neighborhoods through historic preservation, advocacy, and education.
Coastal Georgia
- Coastal Georgia Foundation
Website: https://coastalgeorgiafoundation.org
Connecting donors with community needs across Camden, Glynn, and McIntosh counties. - One Hundred Miles
Website: https://onehundredmiles.org
Protecting and preserving Georgia’s 100-mile coastline through advocacy, education, and conservation initiatives. - America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia
Website: https://helpendhunger.org
Fighting hunger across 21 counties with food distribution, education, and emergency assistance programs.
South Georgia
- Second Harvest of South Georgia
https://feedingsga.org
Operating as the region’s largest hunger-relief organization, serving 26 counties. - Southwest Georgia Project
https://swgaproject.org
Empowering communities through sustainable agriculture, food justice, and civil rights advocacy. - Thomasville Community Resource Center
https://tcrconline.org
Offering educational enrichment and family support services to enhance quality of life.
How to Start a Nonprofit Organization in Georgia
Inspired to create your own nonprofit? Here’s a comprehensive roadmap for establishing a 501(c)(3) organization in Georgia:
1. Clarify Your Mission and Purpose
Before filing any paperwork, define your:
- Mission statement
- Target population
- Specific services or activities
- Geographic scope
- Unique value proposition
Research existing nonprofit organisations in Georgia to avoid duplication and identify potential partnerships.
2. Develop a Business Plan
Create a detailed plan covering:
- Programs and services
- Management structure
- Startup and operating costs
- Funding sources
- Marketing strategy
- 3-5 year financial projections
3. Form a Board of Directors
Georgia requires nonprofit corporations to have at least one director, but a minimum of three is recommended. Choose individuals who bring:
- Diverse skills and perspectives
- Commitment to your mission
- Financial or legal expertise
- Community connections
- Fundraising capabilities
4. Choose a Name and Verify Availability
Select a distinctive name that reflects your mission and check availability through:
- Georgia Secretary of State’s business search: https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch
- Domain name registrars for website availability
- Trademark searches if relevant
5. File Formation Documents
Officially establish your nonprofit by filing Articles of Incorporation with the Georgia Secretary of State. These must include:
- Corporate name and address
- Registered agent information
- Corporate purpose (including specific IRS language)
- Names and addresses of incorporators
- Dissolution provisions
The filing fee is $100, and processing typically takes 5-7 business days.
6. Apply for Federal EIN
Request an Employer Identification Number from the IRS by:
- Applying online: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online
- Submitting Form SS-4 by mail or fax
7. Create Governing Documents
Develop comprehensive bylaws addressing:
- Board structure and terms
- Officer positions and duties
- Meeting frequency and procedures
- Decision-making processes
- Conflict of interest policies
- Membership provisions (if applicable)
8. Hold Initial Board Meeting
Convene your board to:
- Adopt bylaws
- Elect officers
- Authorize bank account opening
- Approve IRS Form 1023 filing
- Document minutes for your records
9. Apply for Federal Tax Exemption
Complete and submit IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ to apply for 501(c)(3) status. This involves:
- Detailed organizational information
- Narrative description of activities
- Financial data and projections
- Governance policies
- Supporting documentation
Application fees range from $275 (Form 1023-EZ) to $600 (Form 1023), with processing times from 3-12 months.
10. Register with Georgia Secretary of State Nonprofit Registration
Complete the Georgia Secretary of State nonprofit registration for charitable organizations planning to solicit donations. This involves:
- Filing Form C-100 with the Securities Division
- Paying a $35 registration fee
- Submitting supporting documents like your IRS determination letter
11. Apply for State Tax Exemptions
Secure Georgia tax exemptions by:
- Applying for sales tax exemption with the Department of Revenue
- Requesting property tax exemption through your county tax assessor
- Registering for unemployment insurance with the Department of Labor
12. Establish Financial Systems
Set up proper financial infrastructure:
- Open a corporate bank account
- Implement accounting software
- Develop financial policies
- Create record-keeping procedures
- Establish internal controls
13. Secure Required Insurance
Protect your organization with appropriate coverage:
- Directors and Officers (D&O) liability
- General liability
- Professional liability if relevant
- Property insurance
- Workers’ compensation (if employing staff)
14. Create Fundraising Strategy
Develop diversified funding streams:
- Individual donations
- Corporate partnerships
- Foundation grants
- Government contracts
- Special events
- Fee-for-service activities
Georgia Nonprofit Compliance Requirements
Annual Filings and Reports
Stay compliant by submitting:
- Georgia Secretary of State annual registration ($30 fee, due April 1)
- Annual renewal with Charities Division (due annually based on initial registration date)
- IRS Form 990 series (due 4.5 months after fiscal year end)
- Updated officer information as changes occur
Employment Considerations
If hiring staff, remember to:
- Register for state unemployment insurance
- Establish workers’ compensation coverage
- Implement proper payroll procedures
- Comply with Georgia employment laws
Fundraising Regulations
Maintain fundraising compliance by:
- Renewing charitable solicitation registration annually
- Including required disclosures on solicitation materials
- Properly administering special events (especially those involving raffles or alcohol)
- Following donor acknowledgment requirements
Resources and Support for Georgia Nonprofits
Georgia Center for Nonprofits Jobs and Training
The Georgia Center for Nonprofits offers extensive resources:
- Job board featuring opportunities across the sector: https://gcn.org/jobs
- Professional development workshops and certificate programs
- Nonprofit University providing affordable training
- Consulting services for organizational development
- Research and sector data
Nonprofits in Atlanta Hiring
Organizations frequently seeking talent include:
- Healthcare systems (Children’s Healthcare, Grady, etc.)
- Educational nonprofits (Teach for America, Communities in Schools)
- Major human service organizations (United Way, YMCA)
- Cultural institutions (High Museum, Atlanta History Center)
- Environmental groups (The Nature Conservancy, Trees Atlanta)
Visit these organization websites directly or search aggregators like:
- Georgia Center for Nonprofits job board
- Indeed.com nonprofit category
- LinkedIn nonprofit jobs
- Idealist.org
Technical Assistance Providers
Additional support organizations include:
- Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta (legal services)
- Foundation Center Atlanta (grant research)
- Small Business Development Centers (business planning)
- Emory University’s Goizueta Business School consulting program
- University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership
Georgia Non Profit Search Tools
Find and research organizations through:
- GuideStar: https://www.guidestar.org
- Charity Navigator: https://www.charitynavigator.org
- Georgia Secretary of State nonprofit search: https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch
- Georgia Center for Nonprofits directory
- Local United Way affiliate databases
Funding Landscape for Georgia Nonprofits
Major Foundation Supporters
- Robert W. Woodruff Foundation
Atlanta’s largest foundation, focusing on education, health, economic opportunity, and arts and culture in Georgia. - Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation
Supporting education, parks and greenspace, youth development, and community impact across Georgia. - Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Managing over $1.1 billion in assets and connecting donors with community needs. - James M. Cox Foundation
Concentrating on conservation, early childhood education, and health. - Goizueta Foundation
Emphasizing educational opportunities for vulnerable populations.
Government Funding Sources
- Governor’s Office of Children and Families
- Georgia Council for the Arts
- Department of Community Affairs
- Department of Human Services
- Department of Public Health
Corporate Giving Programs
Georgia-based companies with significant giving programs:
- Coca-Cola Foundation
- Home Depot Foundation
- Southern Company Charitable Foundation
- Delta Air Lines Foundation
- UPS Foundation
Trends and Innovations in Georgia’s Nonprofit Sector
Collaborative Impact Initiatives
Organizations increasingly partner across sectors to address complex issues:
- Atlanta Partnership for Arts and Learning
- Central Georgia CARE Collaborative
- Savannah-Chatham Homeless Authority
- Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement
Technology Adoption
Nonprofits embracing digital transformation through:
- Virtual service delivery models
- Data-driven program evaluation
- Digital fundraising platforms
- Client management systems
- Remote work capabilities
Equity and Inclusion Focus
Organizations centering diversity, equity, and inclusion through:
- Board and leadership diversity initiatives
- Community-led decision making
- Culturally responsive programming
- Equity audits and organizational assessments
- Addressing historical disparities
Conclusion
Georgia’s non-profits, from Atlanta to rural areas, are resilient and innovative community pillars.
Whether you donate, volunteer, or seek a non-profit career, Georgia offers abundant resources to make a difference and shape the state’s future.
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