Welcome!

So, you’re considering a job in the nonprofit sector. Congratulations!

If you want a place to combine skill, passion, accountability, professionalism and selflessness in an attempt to “change the world,” you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for an “out” from the politics, frustration and instability of other sectors . . . keep looking.

Every sector – every profession – has its ups and downs. No place is perfect. But, if you’re looking for a bottom line that is measured in more than financial gains, this is a great place to start.

It is difficult to succinctly define the “nonprofit sector.” The range of missions, budgets, staff structures and governance models is expansive: at times it is a bit overwhelming, but it is also a reassurance that – somewhere – there is a place for you.

The nonprofit sector is a dynamic world – one that is facing challenges on many levels. While the sector boasts much success in creating positive change, it struggles to keep pace with the times. Most nonprofits were founded on the basic concept of people helping each other. Small organizations that were born from a compelling personal story and structured with a handshake and a dream are being tossed about in a world that is becoming increasingly focused on competitive business practices, alliances and mergers, and instant results.

We struggle with the role of technology in the sector; issues of accountability, transparency, liability and privacy; and balancing professionalism and efficiency with compassion and measurable impacts. Some organizations are ready to handle these challenges, others struggle. Together, we’re working to provide systems and best practices that will help us all and we are seeing great progress.

Like other sectors, our world has been affected by the nation’s economy: we face downsizing, layoffs and other forms of workforce reductions. We struggle with the impact of staff turnover on all levels.

But, we keep going. We cut back on niceties to focus on essential services and programs. Sometimes we trim a little too close to the bone, but our intention is to focus on program and service delivery as we work toward mission accomplishment.

We face a unique challenge in these turbulent times. As government (local, state and federal) cuts back its budget for community support programs, the nonprofit sector is relied upon to provide an increasing level of service with a decreasing pool of resources.

Fortunately, we are also fueled by the commitment and vision of more than ten million paid employees and over 80 million adult volunteers throughout the United States. And, with this spirit, we move forward.

Welcome to our world.

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Download How to Get a Job in the Nonprofit Sector: A Guide for College Students

PDF format, 366KB, 28Pages.

Michigan Nonprofit Association
1048 Pierpont, Suite 3
Lansing, Michigan 48911
(517) 492-2400 Fax (517) 492-2410
www.mnaonline.org

CONTENTS
Welcome!
What is the nonprofit sector?
Why do people want to work in the nonprofit sector?
What are nonprofits looking for?
What kinds of jobs are available?
What do nonprofit salaries look like?
Where do you find the jobs?
Are there any tricks to getting the job?
How important is direct experience and training?
Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts
The nonprofit sector is a diverse and vibrant place to work. We demand discipline and accountability; but creativity and ingenuity are equally welcome. We ar e looking for people who have both the passion for service and the patience for systems. There is a delicate balance between managing the business and changing the world, and we have the unique opportunity to do both.

Give us a call – we’d love to talk to you. 

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