Careers at Non Profits
People who work in non-profits careers are more than good Samaritans dispensing necessities to the poor and destitute. As a non-profit program manager or volunteer, your efforts enrich the lives of people without food, clothing, jobs and shelter and give hope and support to families and communities worldwide. Careers in non profits require a unique skill set: hard work and enthusiasm coupled with a desire to serve humanity selflessly.
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Significance
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According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in 2007, more than 1.64 million nonprofit organizations existed in America. These nonprofits employed 8.7 million workers, or 5.9 percent of all workers. A non-profit organization generates revenue, but profits from the enterprise are not transferred to the owners or members of the corporation. In the Bureau of Labor Statistics Non-Profit Wage Report states that hospitals, membership-only organizations, schools and institutes of higher education employ more non-profit workers than other types of non-profit organizations.
Education and Experience
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The education and experience required for a career at a non-profit organization varies depending on the type of services rendered. Generally, the qualifications for a career in non-profits are comparable to those necessary in the for-profit sector. College coursework in the liberal arts, counseling, the arts, education and humanities are suitable for careers in non-profits. Workers employed by healthcare facilities and educational institutions require a high school diploma and additional certification in their areas of expertise. Management level employees, professors, professionals who administer care or medications have advanced degrees.
Non-Profit Volunteers
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Volunteerism is an effective method to gain entry into the non-profit sector. As a non-profit volunteer, you can observe the organization's methods and charitable mission before becoming an employee. Non-profit organizations often require a weekly time commitment and enthusiasm for the mission of the organization, and most demand thorough background checks for volunteers working with children or social services.
Types
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Many types of careers are available for those interested in non profits. Positions found in the private or government sector--accountants, lawyers, marketing and public relations, various health professionals, administrative professionals, executives, directors and managers---are also found in non profits. Typical non-profit positions are centered on fundraising and the various programs implemented by the organization. These program specific titles include: program managers, fund raisers, directors of community outreach, media coordinators, development associates, and major gifts organizers.
Salaries
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Generally, salaries for employees of non-profit organizations are considerable lower than those of for-profit industries. A non-profit program manager with comparable skills to a manager in a private corporation can expect at least a 15% reduction in salary in addition to meager annual bonuses and small yearly salary increases. However, staff employed by hospitals, research institutions and membership-based organizations receive salaries that are equal to or sometimes higher than workers in the for-profit sector.
Considerations
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Small non-profit organizations are subject to frequent budget cuts and grant limitations. Because most non-profit jobs require a mastery of many skills, people who transition from positions of service to profit-based jobs possess entrepreneurial and recession-proof skills that can be extremely valuable in the marketplace.
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Resources
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Comments
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carmine
Feb 11, 2009
Having worked at a non profit as a social worker, I can attest that the above information is very acurate and informative to those not familiar with this area of the work force. It takes a very special person to work in this field and I greatly admire those who do. -
carmine
Feb 11, 2009
Having worked at a non profit as a social worker, I can attest that the above information is very acurate and informative to those not familiar with this area of the work force. It takes a very special person to work in this field and I greatly admire those who do.
