From Dream to Reality: The Challenges of Launching a Non-Profit with No Experience

Starting a non-profit from the ground up isn’t easy (something I'm learning the hard way). Doing it alone, with no business experience, no fundraising background, and no roadmap to follow? I often feel like I've got my head stuck in the clouds. And maybe I do.

But here I am, proving that you can still have your feet firmly on the ground when you head is in the clouds.

I never set out to be a business owner or a fundraiser. I didn’t grow up imagining myself crafting budgets, drafting sponsorship packages, or learning the ins and outs of corporate partnerships. But, my passion has always been helping people. I was raised by a mother who devoted her life to caring for seniors, which taught me compassion and respect for the experiences of others. Since becoming a Funeral Director, I’ve seen firsthand how devastating loss can be, especially when someone doesn’t have the support they need. I've learned that everyone has a story, and most of that story takes place deep within the heart.

As a licensed funeral director and embalmer, I’ve been there, standing alongside grieving families, guiding them through the first painful steps of their loss. But time and time again, I saw a glaring gap in our grief care system—especially for First Nations communities, seniors, low-income individuals, and those grieving more than just the death of a loved one.

How does a senior process the loss of their independence and identity when transitioning to assisted living? How does a First Nations community heal from the loss of an elder that's compounded by the fact that each elder that passes, takes a part of their language with them?How does someone grieving a career-ending injury, or the future they once envisioned find the right support?

These are real, unspoken losses, and they deserve real, tangible help.

That’s why I founded Lean on Me Network Association—because grief is universal, but access to support shouldn’t be a privilege.

Overcoming challenges is what makes the struggle worth it. Nothing worth having comes easily.

Starting From Scratch: The Hurdles No One Warns You About

I knew I want to change the way Alberta handles grief care. But the moment I decided to start a non-profit, I realized I had no idea how to do it. My only option has been learning on the go and looking to others for guidance.

I have no business experience. I know grief. I know compassion. But I didn't know financial projections, marketing strategies, or how to fundraise from scratch.

I had no funding. Everything I’ve done so far has been bootstrapped, pieced together with sheer determination, late-night research sessions, and money from my side-gigs.

I had no team. Most organizations start with a board of directors, a network of advisors, or even volunteers. I had myself, a mission, and some friends who believed in my vision.

At times, it feels overwhelming. How can I convince people—businesses, funeral homes, insurance companies—to trust me and invest in something that doesn't even exist yet?

But here’s what I’ve learned: You don’t need experience. You need passion, resilience, and an unstoppable drive to make things happen. (Turns out being stubborn works well for some things!)

How I Started Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

I am a relentless learner. Since day one, I’ve been a student of this journey—reading, networking, asking questions, and learning from failure. I’m teaching myself how to write compelling sponsorship proposals, structure a fundraising campaign, and how to navigate the legal side of non-profits.

I stopped waiting for the "Right Time" because there’s never a perfect time to start something new. I could have waited until I had more money, more connections, or more certainty, but instead, I decided to take action. I'm reaching out to funeral homes, speaking with grief therapists, and building relationships with anyone who believes in this mission.

I asked for help, and I quickly learned that people want to help—you just have to ask. Whether it's mentors offering advice, friends sharing my vision, or businesses considering sponsorships, every conversation has moved Lean on Me one step closer to becoming a reality.

I'm focusing on the why, and not on the how because the logistics of running a non-profit often feel impossible when you start from nothing. But every time I feel stuck, I go back to why I started this in the first place. Grief care in Alberta is not good enough. People are suffering in silence. And if I don’t do something about it, who will?

Where We Are Now—and How You Can Help

Lean on Me Network Association is no longer just an idea. It’s becoming a movement and it's darn-near ready for launch.

I am raising $250,000 in startup funds to provide grief therapy, train specialists, and build grief resources across Alberta. I am forming partnerships with funeral homes and insurance companies to ensure that grief care is integrated into existing services. I am preparing to develop programs that directly impact First Nations communities, seniors, and vulnerable individuals who have no access to support.

This is bigger than me. This is about changing the way we handle grief in Alberta.

If you’ve ever struggled with grief, if you believe in a future where no one has to suffer alone, I invite you to be part of this journey.

Donate. Every dollar goes directly toward funding grief support for those who need it most.

Sponsor. If you’re a business or organization looking to make a real impact, let’s talk. Share. Even if you can’t contribute financially, spreading the word can help us reach the people who can.

Starting a non-profit without experience, funding, or a team is not easy. But with the right mission and a relentless belief in change, I’m learned that nothing is impossible.

Join me in building a future where no one walks their grief journey alone.

Jes Knoop

Founder, Lean on Me Network Association

Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer