Chandler Rock is a volunteer on the YNPN Triangle NC Programming Committee.

At our Resource Roundtable event in October, young nonprofit professionals came together to enjoy coffee and biscuits at A Place at the Table to give and get some helpful tips. Warm and open dialogue was enjoyed by all, and we generated so many great insights that we wanted to share them with all of you. Our key takeaways were to hone in on your passion, don’t be afraid to ask, and to follow up!

Specific Resources:

These are free unless otherwise noted!

How to find a job locally or out of state:

• The NC Center for Nonprofits has a great career page.
• Join the YNPN Listserv for local nonprofit opportunities!
• Talk up what you DO have, don’t focus on what you DON’T have.
• Put YNPN and other groups on your resume to show you are part of a local community
• Read: “Leap: Leaving a Job with No Plan B to Find the Career and Life You Really Want.”
• Utilize all the features that LinkedIn offers.
• Reach out to educational, Facebook (e.g., women’s groups), and professional alumni networks.
• Best response is from the follow up. The Muse has great informational interviewing resources.

Professional Development Programs:

• YNPN Triangle NC’s annual #NonprofitSTRONG Summit  is affordable and connects you to the local nonprofit scene. YNPN offers programs on salary negotiation, board governance, fiduciary responsibility.
• Nonprofit Technology Network’s national conference is focused on database, finance, IT, infrastructure, digital inclusion (expensive but scholarships available).
• Inquire into what your organization is already a part of (Center for Nonprofits, Chamber of Commerce, etc.) to access those resources at no or a discounted cost.
• Take part in the Duke Nonprofit Management Program (fee, ask your organization to sponsor cost) for skills-building, professional development, and networking.
• Toastmasters is an international organization with local chapters that focus on building confidence and focus in public speaking (small fee).

Volunteer and Board Opportunities:

• Build a Better Board connects individuals with organizations that need board members.
• Taproot connects individuals with organizations seeking specific expertise.
• MeetUp for all kinds of social groups, Activate Good to volunteer.

Nonprofit Development Tips:

• Read “It’s Not Just About the Money: How to Build Authentic Major Donor Relationships” and follow the Veritus Group from Richard Perry and Jeff Schreifels for major gifts.
• Don’t undermine how communicating about your program translates into building relationships with donors.
• Nonprofit Happy Hour on Facebook to ask specific questions to the community that follows Nonprofit AF blog.

Good luck out there, y’all! We hope these help. For more tips and support, be sure to RSVP to future YNPN events to enjoy similar networking opportunities.