By Lauren Gill
Still looking for a full-time job months after graduation? Have a desire to change the world? Working at a nonprofit organization may be for you. Nonprofits can be a pathway to enter various fields such as IT, marketing and public relations, education, legal professions, and accounting.
Many recent grads have started their careers at nonprofits and are helping their communities every day. Recent grads Colleen Flynn, Jeremy Strauss and Liz Copeland began working in the nonprofit sector by volunteering with LIFT, an anti-poverty organization, as college students. They are now working full-time at various nonprofits.
These grads have received challenging opportunities that have helped them to grow as professionals. “Working at a nonprofit has given me more responsibility and more leadership opportunities than I ever imagined at such a young age,” said Flynn.
As LIFT’s communications and media relations manager, Colleen Flynn has garnered more than 20 major press opportunities, managed the rebranding of an organization, and produced several publications and videos.
Along with challenging opportunities, working at nonprofits has other benefits. Nonprofits usually have positive and collaborative work environments. “Everyone is working there (a nonprofit) because they care about the issue,” said Copeland.
Other benefits include upward mobility and the ability to help people every day. “It’s rewarding work. You don’t make as much money, but you are making an impact in people’s lives,” said Strauss.
Working at a nonprofit is different than working at a traditional business. Since they are less staff and smaller budgets, you must be willing to collaborate with other staff members and be creative with resources. You should also be passionate and have a connection to the work you are doing at the organization.
There are several networks you can join if you are interested in working in the nonprofit sector. The Young Nonprofit Professional Networks, local volunteer groups, and even your college alumni chapter are good ways to network. AmeriCorps and idealist.org are also good places to find nonprofit jobs.
To learn more about LIFT, visit liftcommunities.org.
This article also appeared on Lauren Gil’s blog Broke College Grad:
http://brokecollegegrad.blogspot.com/2011/03/nonprofits-provide-fulfilling-job.html