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Nonprofit formation & compliance advisor (Volunteer)

Organization: Protect the Whales

Location: Remote / Community-based

Time Commitment: Flexible (short-term intensive support during formation, then ~1–2 hours per month)

About Protect the Whales

Protect the Whales is a grassroots advocacy organization dedicated to protecting whales and marine life through education, outreach, and action. Our work focuses on ending captivity, reducing pollution, and empowering communities—especially students—to take meaningful action for whales.

Role Overview

The Nonprofit Formation & Compliance Advisor supports Protect the Whales in establishing and maintaining nonprofit status. This role helps ensure the organization meets legal and regulatory requirements so it can responsibly fundraise, apply for grants, and operate in alignment with its mission.

Responsibilities

• Assist with nonprofit formation, including state incorporation and bylaws

• Help prepare and submit IRS nonprofit applications (such as 501(c)(3))

• Support the creation and organization of required governance documents

• Assist with compliance requirements and annual filings (IRS and state-level)

• Provide guidance to the board on basic nonprofit governance and best practices

• Help ensure transparency and proper documentation of decisions and finances

• Coordinate with legal or tax professionals if needed

Qualifications

• Interest or experience in nonprofit governance, law, accounting, public administration, or compliance

• Strong organizational and attention-to-detail skills

• Ability to communicate legal or administrative requirements clearly

• Commitment to the mission and values of Protect the Whales

• Prior legal or accounting experience is helpful but not required (students and volunteers welcome)

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience with nonprofit formation and compliance

• Leadership experience in a mission-driven organization

• The opportunity to directly support whale protection efforts

• Volunteer service hours and references upon request

• Recognition for your contribution to building Protect the Whales

How to Apply

Please reach out with a brief introduction describing your interest in helping Protect the Whales and any relevant experience or skills you would like to contribute.

A dedicated individual working on a nonprofit formation for whale protection. The person is sitting at a rustic wooden desk, surrounded by papers and documents related to whale conservation. The background features a large window with a view of the ocean, where whales can be seen swimming. The scene is warm and inviting, with natural light streaming in, highlighting the person's focused expression as they work diligently on their mission.

Let's talk
We would love to hear from you!