Hello,
I am at the beginning of this process myself.
Here are some websites that may help you with some of the questins you may have: www.idealist.org
fdncenter.org
nonprofitabout.com
I also visit Barnes and Nobles and Borders bookstores for books on the subject matter.
If you have anymore questions you can always send me a PM as I don't visit this site often.
Because of the Cross,
Newday
You should look into the laws of your state about incorporating a non for profit entity. If you google your state's corporation laws online and look for the not for profit section, it will tell you what you need to do, and perhaps provide the forms as well. Good luck!