Discussion on:

Nonprofit sector offers rewards beyond money

I also work for a non-profit . . . a couple of years ago both of my parents were diagnosed with terminal illnesses. My company, boss and co-workers were wonderful! They all stood by me during the difficult 14 last months of my parents' lives. They covered my work area when I had to leave for emergencies and when I took time off for the funerals (my parents died six months apart) and helped me when I had to cut back my hours for a couple of months. Our board of directors also supported me through this. They even attended both funerals!

My company has become a second family to me because of this . . . and no amount of salary at in the corporate world can make up for the humanity I have found here. I am forever grateful - for all of the blessings I have received here.

I currently work in a non-profit agency and I agree with the points made in the article. This agency has allowed me to learn on the job as I was always considered the "tech guy" that everyone went to since I had that interest but no formal training.By allowing me to go to some workshops and working with great contractors I am headed down the path of being a true IT worker hopefully someday. I am sure working in the for- profit sector I would not have had the same opportunity.

Having worked at a non-profit for most of my IT career I would have to agree with the benefits -- less pressure (compared to for-profit), family-friendly and a chance to move into IT when you don't always have the background. However, implementing new technology, even upgrades (mainly because the old version is no longer supported), can be difficult. Users in non-profits are usually not as tech-savvy and do not like change. Management's lack of understanding of technology can also mean less support (during implementations, regardless of what they may have said to you earlier) and attempts to implement technology with no real benefit for business. For example, they assume videoconferencing will save them money, because they read it in the Wall St. Journal.

I must say, however, the benefits do make up for the lower salary.

I would like to work in the nonprofit sector. Are there any places to look for IS/IT positions?
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks