by Belinda Simon

Created on: April 30, 2009   Last Updated: March 12, 2010

If you have a passion for a particular cause or charity, consider working for them, either as a volunteer or as a paying job. Working for a nonprofit organization is rewarding as you are helping others less fortunate than yourself, whether you receive a salary or you work voluntarily. As most nonprofit organizations depend on donations, salaries are usually on the lower side, but knowing you are contributing to a better world and enjoying it, is often more rewarding than a high salary.

It is difficult to find your ideal job now, when more people are losing their jobs every day, but it is possible. There are opportunities where you can follow your passion and work for a nonprofit organization when you know where to find them.

Job Search web sites

Some of the major job web sites have non-profit jobs listed, and some specialize in non-profit organizations. In the United States, www.idealist.org is a non-profit job search site and www.techsoup.org provides helpful information on job seeking. In Australia, www.seek.com.au and www.mycareer.com.au have non-profit vacancy listings. Search the Internet for sites in your country.

Other web sites

Go directly to the non-profit organization web sites. Churches and associations often list job vacancies on their web sites. Churches, veterans associations and children's associations, such as the blind, deaf, autistic, Down's syndrome, and World Vision are places to start.

Newspapers

You probably already scour the daily newspapers, but often Churches and charity organizations produce newspapers, newsletters and magazines, which may list job vacancies.

Phone Directory

The first few pages of the phone directory usually list counseling and help lines. Although these numbers will often list the direct help-line number, the counselor can usually give you the number you need when you explain your situation. Look under the headings, Associations, Organizations, Charities, Community and Voluntary.

Your Local area

Your local Community Centre or Council will have a list of the local non-profit organization branches in your area. These could include support groups, homeless shelters, and neighborhood or drop-in centers. Sometimes the local library notice board will have details of other groups, although these will probably be voluntary positions.

Networking and word-of-mouth

Ask your local pastor, your friends, acquaintances, relatives and neighbors if they know of any organizations that may need your help. Up to 70% of job vacancies

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