Nonprofits improve lives. “They provide a way for people to work together for the common good, transforming shared beliefs and hopes into action. They give shape to our boldest dreams, highest ideals, and noblest causes. America’s 1.3 million charitable nonprofits feed, heal, shelter, educate, inspire, enlighten, and nurture people of every age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status, from coast to coast, border to border, and beyond. They foster civic engagement and leadership, drive economic growth, and strengthen the fabric of our communities. Every single day.” (Source: National Council of Nonprofits)
Job Types
Because the nonprofit and NGO fields are so broad, there are many job titles that exist. In fact, many of the jobs you will find in nonprofits/NGOs look very similar to those in the for-profit sector. Below is a sampling of roles you might find:
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Development Director
- Grant Writer
- Social and Community Services Manager
- Volunteer Coordinator
Gain Skills
There are many free resources to help you develop skills like volunteer management and grant writing. Get started with these resources:
- VAService.org
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VAService.org: Offers free and affordable access to workshops and conferences to assist with volunteer recruitment and management, grant writing, marketing, accounting, financial reporting and many other skills needed for nonprofit and service-based work.
- Grant Proposal Writing Guide
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Grant Proposal Writing Guide: Free guidebook for writing a grant for funding
- Corporation for National and Community Service
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Corporation for National and Community Service: Find free online courses on a variety of topics including Community Engagement and Strengthening, Disaster Preparedness, Faith-Based Community Initiatives, Performance Measurement, Volunteer Leveraging, and more!
A Note About Job Applications
Working in nonprofits and NGOs can mean working with people from all walks of life, including working for an organization with a mission to support specific populations. If you have experience with the particular population the organization works with or the particular issue it addresses - whether from your own personal lived experience or from other opportunities - it can be important to share that information in your application.
Sample cover letters:
Sample Cover Letter: Campaign Organizer
Sample Cover Letter: Executive Assistant of a Human Rights Nonprofit
learn more
Nonprofits vs. NGOs
A nonprofit organization uses its surplus revenue to further achieve its mission and typically serves the general public through its mission, while a non-governmental organization (NGO) is any nonprofit, voluntary citizens' group organized on a local, national or international level. Both types of organizations perform a variety of service, advocacy, and humanitarian functions and promote such issues as women’s rights, healthcare, and education.
The Center for Nonprofit Excellence is a local nonprofit that helps support other nonprofit organizations in the Charlottesville area. Search their database of nonprofits to connect with local organizations.
Alumni Spotlight
Non-Profit Organization Management Professional
Mike is an Independent Non-Profit Organization Management Professional based out of Charlottesville, VA. Currently giving his experience and leadership skills to the American Red Cross, Mike is a Leadership Partner with the Services to Armed Forces Program, a Regional Training and Exercise Coordinator, a Preparedness Officer, and an Interim Disaster Program Manager.
Major: History (Bachelor)
College: University of Virginia
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