Not for profit organizations are defined as those who are activist, civil, religious, public services and public broadcasting groups that work for the benefit of society and people rather than for monetary gain of the organization they work for or for themselves. Non profit associations may operate at local, state, national and/or international levels. The interests of these organizations vary as much as there are concerns and activities in the world, so there is sure to be an organization that will fit your needs, wants and personality perfectly.
There are plenty of charity organizations that are continually looking for dedicated, passionate, diligent people who are willing to work for causes that need constant attention. Not only are volunteers needed, but full-time and part-time leadership positions need to be filled as well. True, the salaries do not say much about the amounts of work and sweat put into the organization; the meaning of all the diligence and labor is the real compensation.
Many non profit organizations are seeking corporate experience, but you do not have to be a former CEO to get involved in these types of organizations. Other leadership roles vary from organization to organization, but each has its own satisfactions. Working in a non-profit organization can be just as challenging as a commercial job, but it is a continual learning and personal growth experience.
A career change toward a position in a non-profit organization, especially a high level station, is a tough decision. You first need passion and dedication to charity principles and goals. You need energy and focus, just as in corporate setting, but you also require patience and compassion. Non profit organizations are mostly fueled by the work and support of volunteers — people who want to be there for the cause, not the money.
Before you start preparing your resume, you should fix test the waters of the non profit environment. There are both local and national non profit organizations in which you can absorb yourself. Volunteer, join non profit boards and get involved in the non profit atmosphere. Find what makes you happy to know you are helping someone or something out, whether it is promoting cancer research, working with the Girl or Boys Scouts of America or protecting wetlands from pollution. Once you figure out what you are passionate about and acquire some experience in the non profit world, the transition to a full-time non profit career will be much easier.
The benefits of working with a non profit association overshadow the disadvantages almost to the point of invisibility. In almost any position, you can learn new skills or further develop current ones. You meet new people from a variety of lifestyles that perhaps you would not otherwise meet. You give something of value back to your community when you help out. And you broaden your personal views of how the world works and what just one individual can accomplish with a little concern and hard work. Non profit jobs show that you can make a difference in the world.
By Monica Drusch