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Introduction

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this research is to define nonprofit organizations, describe opportunities that is present in nonprofits, outline advantages and disadvantages of working in the nonprofit sector, and explain how you can determine if this is an area for you to consider as a career. WHAT IS THE NONPROFIT SECTOR? "Nonprofit" is a term that the I.R.S. uses to define tax-exempt organizations whose money or "profit" must be used solely to further their charitable or educational mission, rather than distribute profits to owners or shareholders as in the for-profit sector. The term is also used to describe organizations which are not a branch of -- are independent of -- the government and the corporate sector. This term refers to one of the most important uniqueness of a nonprofit organization: it is independent of both the public or government sector and the private or corporate sector. Nonprofits are organizations whose income is not used for the benefit or gain of stockholders, directors or any other persons with an interest in the organization. The nonprofit sector is very diverse; it includes tax-exempt organizations that are educational, scientific and cultural, as well as civic and social welfare organizations. Nonprofits usually work to advance a cause or interest or to accomplish some good work. ...read more.

Middle

Because they share a common cause, these professionals have a keen sense of closeness, cooperation, and unity with co-workers. According to a volunteering unit in the UK (Anonymous, 1995), the reason people apply for volunteer work are: being active participants; out of a sense of shared responsibility; because they want to help others; in order to seek change; and to give something back to the community. Many nonprofit organizations have a positive impact on the health and welfare of people. They do "good works" that are compatible with the religious and social values of individuals who want to help others and become involved in improving their communities. People who seek meaningful work find nonprofits provide an excellent job "fit". They enable many people to pursue their passions in well-focused work environments. Many nonprofit jobs lead to career advancement within the nonprofit sector. This often involves moving from small to larger nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits also are excellent stepping stones for acquiring jobs in government and business. Indeed, many people working in government and business today first acquired work experience with nonprofit organizations. Much of the work of nonprofits is very interesting and exciting. Arts, cultural, historical, community-educational, social service, advocacy, political, and business and professional organizations engage in some of today's most important work. ...read more.

Conclusion

Unlike a business that measures its performance by its bottom-line profits; few nonprofits have similar types of performance indicators. They operate processes which may or may not be directly related to specific performance and outcomes. Many of these processes involve frequent meetings, reports, and other related activities but few measurable outcomes. Like government agencies, nonprofit organizations have annual budgets which they must expend. The closest they may come to performance is a clear mission statement of what they hope to accomplish. Only a few nonprofits have clear mission statements that guide their performance and hold them accountable. By definition most nonprofits depend on a variety of unstable fundraising activities, from membership fees, public donations, and corporate sponsorships to foundation grants, government contracts, and commercial activities. Fluctuating from year to year, such unpredictable revenue streams can create anxiety amongst employees, generate job insecurity, and affect motivation. Many nonprofit organizations operate as if they were in a permanent downsizing mode. Another disadvantage to working in the nonprofit sector is being used up of burnout. Although the work environment may be less competitive, regularly nonprofit employees work with less fortunate individuals who may have not many material resources. It is important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the nonprofit sector. Only after examining these aspects can you make an informed, accurate career decision. What is most important is to get the facts rather than to jump to inaccurate conclusions based on incomplete information. ...read more.

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