[Thrift Store 2B]

I am gathering information on starting up a thrift store in So. California. My dream is to sell what I love to buy and to tie the profits to a local charity. Where does one go to find out about non-profit qualifications? I am not interested in websites that get rich off me purchasing their product, but rather inexpensive or free places to gather information from. I am on an extremely tight budget and would appreciate any information that has helped you to become successful or has led you on the right path. Thanks for any help you can give... :)