Reply #3: donors are tax exempt

[sui generis]

it's his receipt of goods or services that are equivalent to income can in some cases require that he pay income tax on it.

You really don't need to do anything other than set up a special bank account with the bank to accept charitable donations. Just don't spend any money on yourself, i.e., don't pay yourself to "administer" the fund or you'll get in trouble.

If you plan to invest the money or take administrative pay, then you must set up a 501c3. Check your state's official website for more information specific to where you live.