Begin by identifying the community need you want to address. Reflect on your lived experiences, passions and the gaps you see in existing services. This stage is about vision-setting and understanding why you want to serve.

Attend an introductory info session or watch the JCOD orientation video to learn about our mission, values and approach to working with community. This helps ensure your goals align with the academy’s purpose.

Gain access to curated resources and templates that walk you through the basics of starting and structuring a nonprofit:

• Step-by-step guide to 501(c)(3) formation
• Mission/vision statement worksheets
• Board development checklists
• Budget and fundraising starter templates
• This toolkit ensures you have the practical building blocks in place before moving forward.

This 3-Day interactive workshop is designed to help aspiring nonprofit leaders turn big ideas into actionable plans. Through guided activities, you will:

• Refine your mission and vision
• Outline your core programs and services
• Draft your first program logic model
• Learn how to communicate your story to funders and the community

Using your workshop outcomes, design a one-page roadmap that includes your mission, target audience, program activities, short-term goals and measures of success. This document becomes your guide for both community engagement and your academy application.

Showcase your progress and achievements! Tag us with photos, testimonials and outcome data stories from the community – tag @lacjcod on all social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn) so we can amplify your work. This not only meets the eligibility requirement but also strengthens your application by showing a clear record of impact.

Submit your completed application and required materials. If selected, you’ll join a transformative capacity-building program designed to equip grassroots organizations with the tools, resources and connections to expand their impact.