Your Job, Your Mission, Your Community

Whether looking for a first job, a mid-career change, or a fulfilling post-retirement life, many people these days want to make a difference and find meaning -- not just a paycheck -- in their jobs. In fact, when Career Builder recently surveyed 6,000 U.S. workers about the attributes of a "dream job," 39 percent cited "having fun," compared with 17 percent who said "making a difference to society."  Salary was named by only 12 percent of respondents.

This section discusses how careers and missions are increasingly merging -- with tips on finding your own dream job.

The Pro Bono Challenge
In her work as both CEO of the Case Foundation and Chair of the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation, Jean Case touts the role of skills-based volunteerism and pro bono service in helping nonprofits achieve scale and sustainability. Read more.

Survey: Skills-Based Volunteerism Valued, Underutilized
A new survey from Deloitte reveals that while the majority of human resource managers agree that skills-based volunteerism could lead to tangible gains, only 16 percent regularly offer the option to their employees. Read more.

The Nonprofit Sector: Advantages and Disadvantages
Considering a career in the nonprofit world? While there's much to gain in mixing business and belief, there are both opportunities and pitfalls to be found. Here are some pros and cons to consider.

10 Myths about Nonprofit Employment
Interested in a nonprofit career but afraid you won't be able to get by on the salary? Fear not. Think nonprofit work is too easy? Think again. A headhunter for the sector debunks 10 of the most common misconceptions about working for nonprofits. Read more.

Putting the 'Pro' in Pro Bono: Skills-Based Volunteering
Communications executive Joe Harrell loved his job but wanted to do more for his community. Thanks to the innovative approach of the Taproot Foundation, he now volunteers his time and skills to help nonprofits. Read Joe's story or learn more about Taproot.

Make a Living and Make a Difference
Idealist.org, a project of Action Without Borders, has become the go-to site for both mission-minded job seekers and nonprofits looking for employees who want to make a difference. Idealist offers some helpful hints for those wanting to balance work and mission. Read more.

'Strapped': The Cost of Debt
In Strapped: Why America's 20- and 30-Somethings Can't Get Ahead, Tamara Draut examines the financial pressures facing young people and considers how student loans, credit card balances, and other burdens may affect major life decisions, including career choices. Read our Q&A with Tamara.

Getting Ahead While Giving Back: Tips for the College-Bound
Volunteering is not just a nice thing to do and a great way to help your community -- it may also beef up your college and job applications. Two of the nation's top education reporters give advice on how to get meaningful experience that also look good on paper. Read more.

What Business Execs Don't Know -- but Should -- About Nonprofits
This article from the Stanford Social Innovation Review says many business leaders underestimate the challenges of managing nonprofits. Eleven executives reveal the critical differences between the private and nonprofit worlds. Read more.

Get to Work: Learn How
These online resources will help you earn a living and change the world. Read more.