I would love to get a discussion going on the process of starting and running a Non Profit/Not for Proft.. from a fair trade organization up to an IRS recognized tax-exempt entity.

What are the real benefits? risks?
Is it possible to operate both a for-profit venture and NFP at the same time? can the NFP accept a portion of the proceeds from the for-profit as a donation?

These are the things i'm trying to get to in my reading right now.. and a ton more.

My goal of operating a buiness has grown and evolved into a pretty lofty, but I believe obtainable, goal of using the retail platform as a way to really make a long term difference in the world we live in. I feel as if there has been no more important time for action amongst all generations as there is right now... and that in a capitalist world, controlling money is perhaps the greatest available action you have. However, as an individual it's harder to make your money work like that. You can gain more respect and available pull as an organization that is aimed at changing something in the world.

Anyways.. has anyone here ever started their own NFP? or been involved in the starting and running of one, in some form?