As a member of the boomer generation, I have noticed an interesting phenomenon among my peers. Many who have had successful careers in the private sector are ready to chuck it all and move to the non-profit world. The good news is that many non-profits are welcoming these people with open arms. Nancy Lee, owner of Social Marketing Services, teaches courses on non-profit management at Seattle University and University of Washington. She points out, “Non-profits are looking for people who are experienced with entrepreneurship, revenue streams, customer service and performance management. They need people who have spent some time in for-profit business and are strategic thinkers.”

What is the appeal of working in non-profit where hours can be just as long, salaries are generally lower and many jobs are contingent upon grant money? Motivation varies, as do the opportunities, based on these Islanders’ stories.

Ben Keylin, Executive Director, Youth Theatre Northwest: Keylin was an entrepreneur for most of his career after a short stint as a school teacher. Ben Keylin & Associates was primarily positioned for restaurant marketing, attracting clients such as Red Robin and Consolidated Restaurants. After surviving a diagnosis of cancer in the late 1990s, Keylin was beseeched by a friend to take a position as marketing director for Empty Space Theater. Keylin said, “My friend was apologetic saying, `We can’t pay you what you’re worth,’ and I responded, `I can’t guarantee I will live to get the job done.”’

He more than did the job and in 2003 was offered the position of executive director at then financially troubled Youth Theatre Northwest. “I love the challenge each day brings. Every success feels good — every $25 check means someone cares.” Keylin attributes part of his success to his experience as a businessman. “I am often amazed at how little people in non-profit service know of the business world. Today’s non-profits need to operate like a business. If you have only worked in non-profits you need to get an internship or some other experience to learn what business is all about.”

Marion Mohler, Freelance Grant Writer/Development Professional: Mohler has migrated back and forth from non-profit to for-profit since the late 1970’s. “I initially chose non-profit grant writing as a way to stay home with my small children," said Mohler. “It works well on a part-time or freelance basis. I also enjoy learning about different organizations and using my skills to help them communicate with their constituents and raise money both through grants and individual giving." Most of her work has been in health care and education.

Mohler advises taking some basic courses on grant writing to start out. She suggests training through Bellevue Community College, The Pacific NW Grant Writers Association or the Northwest Development Officer Association. She also suggests taking an entry level position to break into the grant writing profession.

Nathan Marti, Teen Director, Mercer Island Boys & Girls Club: “The challenge of working with teens and building programs for them was very intriguing to me,” said Marti, who has worked in city recreation departments and health/athletic clubs after earning a degree in Recreation Management at Central Washington. “I love serving youth on a daily basis. It gives you a much better chance of impacting their lives. Working in non-profit, I feel we can provide affordable services to a variety of people, especially those who are disadvantaged.”

Marti suggests those considering careers in the non-profit sector try volunteering first to get a feel for the work, the mission and how non-profits operate. “What non-profits might lack in salary, they make up in how you feel after a hard day of work; you feel good.”

If you want to know what kinds of jobs are available in the non-profit world, here are some resources you might find helpful.

The Harvard Business School Guide to Careers in the Nonprofit Sector, by Stephanie Lowell.

Doing Well by Doing Good: The Complete Guide to Careers in the Nonprofit Sector, by Terry McAdam.

From Making a Profit to Making a Difference: How to Launch Your Career in Nonprofits by Richard King.

Terry Pile is president of Career Advisors providing career counseling, career development and outplacement services to individuals and small businesses. She specializes in helping people find satisfying employment. She can be contacted at terryp@careeradvisorsonline.com.