3. Fund-Raiser
Network, network, market, network. Create buzz. Make passionate pitches, in person and in grant proposals.
Why Now?
As government funding has been cut, in areas from the arts to housing to law enforcement, private money has become increasingly important. Headlines about philanthropists like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have given momentum to the expected growth of donations from a prosperous 50-plus population. With more groups competing for dollars, there's demand for women with good communication and interpersonal skills, highly developed networks, and the ability to project authority and tolerate rejection.
Getting In
Fund-raisers (also known as development officers) come from psychology, marketing, financial management, and education, among other fields. No particular degree is required, although an MBA with a concentration in nonprofit management doesn't hurt. It's inexpensive to learn grant writing (go to foundationcenter.org for information on courses and reading materials). Meanwhile, write a real proposal -- for your kids' debate team or your synagogue's green program. Even if you don't get the money, you can increase your credibility. This is another area where volunteer work can open doors.
Pay and Perks
Average first-year salary is about $50,500, according to data from the Economic Research Institute. But salaries vary tremendously depending on responsibilities and an organization's size. Much of the job can be done outside a nine-to-five framework, on the phone or online. Josette Kaufman, 48, a former analyst for Fannie Mae, is now executive director -- and chief fund-raiser -- for the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation, which is working to save the Florida Everglades. Kaufman loves the variety in her job: She can be planting cypress trees on an island in Lake Okeechobee one day, planning a black-tie dinner the next.
Must Love
Cold calls, small victories.
To Find Out More
Association of Fundraising Professionals
