How to start a nonprofit program to help others?

Create a website where people click to donate and depending on how much they receive gift where they can even opt to not receive any gifts.

If you are in the U.S. - your friend will need to start and register a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt organization in order to legally accept donations for her project. She will need a board of directors and a business plan, and likely a small bank loan for start-up costs. The IRS is very strict in regulating charity organizations. If your friend does not want to go to the trouble of opening a nonprofit, she can contact the development or foundation office at the hospital whose NICU families she seeks to benefit, and ask a gift officer for guidance. She could also ask for an internship in an organization such as Ronald McDonald House or another well known charity that benefits patient families -- this would provide an excellent learning opportunity that would prepare her for her chosen profession. Good luck to your friend.

put up flyers, signs, and create your own website.

hope this could help! :)