There is a widespread belief that nonprofits rely on volunteers to operate. While volunteers can be the lifeline for start-up and grassroots nonprofits and they make a significant contribution to nonprofits of all sizes, the nonprofit sector maintains a vibrant and skilled workforce.
Although the long-term consequences of COVID and social unrest is still unknown, nonprofits play a critical role in American society and they are here to stay. By nature, nonprofits (of all sizes) are adaptable due to the shifts that occur with clients and the communities they serve. Recent events will mean an increase in nonprofit mergers and a decline of nonprofit organizations overall, however, career opportunities will remain.
The 2019 Nonprofit Employment Report produced by Johns Hopkins Center for Civil Society Studies, looked specifically at how U.S. nonprofit organizations progressed during the post-recessionary period 2012-2016. The need to attract talented, and passionate individuals to tackle old and new societal issues will be stronger than ever post-COVID.
Consider these pre-COVID facts:
- The nonprofit sector is the third largest generator of payroll income in the U.S. behind only professional services and manufacturing.
- Over half (55%) of all nonprofit jobs in the U.S. are in the health care field.
- 14% are in the educational services, including private and secondary schools, colleges and universities
- 12% of jobs are in social assistance, including community food services, housing services, childcare
When comparing these findings with 2018-28 Department of Labor projected job growth, as well as the essential services communities rely on nonprofits to provide, a snapshot emerges of where nonprofit career opportunities might exist post-COVID. With an aging population and displaced workers struggling to support their families, an assumption can be made that healthcare, community and social service occupations will remain in high demand.
A yet unknown “new normal” will eventually emerge. Pay attention, do your research, and reflect on the skills you have and how they can be applied to a nonprofit if service is your calling. Use this time, unsettling as it is, to position yourself when the time is right.