Jobs for Change

Sector Switchers

Sector Switchers Advice by Topic

Do Something Good.

categories: Job Seekers, Search Strategy, Stories, Volunteering

Published May 12, 2009 @ 07:24PM PT

Portland Man Loses Job and Founds a Nonprofit

Seth Reams, co-founder of We've Got Time To Help, digs a hole for a fence for someone in need.

Have you been laid off, anticipating a lay-off or searching for your next great career? As the economy falters, many people are being laid off and forced into an unplanned job search. For many job seekers, this is the perfect time to explore the nonprofit sector by volunteering. Identify a cause or interest that you are passionate about (I know that it's hard to feel passionate about anything after being laid off, but use your hobbies or interests as your guide) and identify a nonprofit agency making an impact in this area. Here is the perfect opportunity to use your interest, passion and skills to make a difference.

If you have been following the Obama administration and their focus on service, you are no stranger to the multitude of opportunities that exist to make a difference. If you don't have a clue about where to begin your volunteer search, talk with your colleagues, neighbors, friends and family members to hear about where they volunteer or donate resources. If you haven't already looked online, check out VolunteerMatch and the TapRoot Foundation to explore opportunities. If nothing else, you'll be inspired after reading stories about successful sector switchers. Share your story in the comment section or email me. I'd love to hear how you made your sector switch.