Working for Nonprofit Organizations
Before delving into the reasons why people work in non-profit organizations, it is good to look at what a non-profit organization is. There are a number of definitions that characterize the nature of such organizations. But, basically they are not operating for the profit or gain of its individual members. This does not necessarily mean that they do not make money, but any profit made must be used to carry out its purposes and must not be distributed to owners, members or other private individuals.
There are many different types of organizations that are non-profit, ranging from small local, community based charities (e.g. Den’s action against homelessness in Hertfordshire and Reading Family Aid, UK) to large multinational organizations (e.g. Oxfam, and Save the Children).
The work of a non-profit organization is altruistic, concerning the welfare of others and is active across a vast range of disciplines including, education, environment, human services and arts.
There are some misconceptions about working for non-profit organizations, particularly in relation to the nature of work (long hours with no reward) and what people expect to get out of it. It is worth mentioning that although a large number of organizations recruit volunteers to carry out the work that needs to be done, like running a charity shop, working for a non-profit organization can also be a career choice. Some work involves earning a salary as if you were working for a profit-making establishment. In reality, it can be the same as any other job, with one major difference . . . the motivation to be there.
So why do people work for non-profit organizations?
Volunteering, can be a great way for a young person to gain some experience in a particular skill and have the opportunity to embark on an adventure, that will undoubtedly be life changing. For older people it is a chance to “give something back” and use their skills and their experience to help others.
Working for non-profit organizations, whose operations are based in developing countries, provides endless opportunities and challenges. These are all character building, along with helping others, gives you a chance to discover who you really are, and provide you a different window to view the world from. Imagine spending time in a village where there is no running water and no electricity and yet people are happy, kids are running around laughing, playing with toys they have made from things around them. Now take a flash look at where you live. Your neighbor complains that they are struggling and are unhappy with their lives because they can’t afford the new large flat screen TV. The kids are always wanting for the latest games and gadgets. It puts things in perspective doesn’t it.
The over arching reason why people work for a non-profit organization is the sense that their work and contribution is benefiting someone else. They are helping to provide someone with a better life and creating a better world. Whether it is helping a community charity establish a playground in a neglected suburb of a big city; working with a group of people to set up a clean water system in a village in Africa; or even protecting the forest for future generations. Most of the activities of non-profit organizations would never happen without their existence and the efforts and dedication of the team of people, whether voluntary or not. The sense of being a part of something and the satisfaction that your skills and passion are contributing to helping make the world a better place, overrides any financial gain. If all of us took some time out to help others in some way, the world would be a better place for now and the future.
