In today's ever-evolving job market, the choice of where to begin one's career is a pivotal decision that can shape not only professional growth but also personal fulfillment and the impact on the world. Non-profit organizations, driven by a deep sense of purpose and commitment to positive change, offer a unique and rewarding avenue for launching a career. That said, there are so many organizations to explore that it's not always clear where to look. To help narrow down your search, we've identified 6 non-profits that span industries and subject areas – but all make a big impact. Whether you're passionate about education, social impact, or innovation, this article is your guide to discovering the incredible opportunities that lie within the realm of non-profits. Take a look at the organizations below!
GO Foundation unlocks the potential of national service, igniting a powerful ripple effect in the lives of students through high-dosage tutoring, mentorship, and enriching opportunities. As a GO AmeriCorps Fellow, you will experience a comprehensive program designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for success. Plus, GO Foundation’s rigorous pre-service training ensures you are fully prepared to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the students they serve, and the organization provides ongoing support through networking events, social gatherings, and professional development opportunities.
Govern For America is a great nonprofit that takes recent graduates who want to serve their community and places them in government jobs. GFA’s mission is to build the next generation of public servants to create a more responsive government that better reflects and serves our communities. Their programming provides participants with the position, community, training, mentorship, and hands-on experience needed to become effective leaders in public service. Find Govern For America’s interest form here.
Great Hearts Academies is a growing network of 45 public, open-enrollment, tuition-free schools in Arizona, Louisiana and Texas that provides a classical learning environment for students in grades K–12 to prepare for success in the best universities in the nation. They hire teachers from all disciplines with no teaching certification required. It’s an amazing nonprofit to launch your career in teaching while supporting the rising generations.
New grads looking for the opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of others through education should consider Teach Kentucky, a selective teacher recruitment program helping motivated college graduates teach in Kentucky’s public schools and earn their teaching certification through a low-cost Masters of Arts in Teaching degree. In addition, participants are also Americorps Members earning a Segal Education Award. As an incoming teacher in Kentucky, you will be paired with a retired teacher advocate who will provide the support and mentorship needed to make a successful transition into the classroom. Teach Kentucky is looking for candidates from across the country to join in its mission — and as a new grad you won’t want to miss out on this great opportunity to give back, receive standout training, and gain soft and hard skills to propel your career.
America needs more entrepreneurs, and Venture for America is driven to create a future where anyone who wants to be an entrepreneur can be with their two-year Fellowship for recent college graduates. Fellows apply for jobs within the innovation economy – at organizations ranging from startups and high-growth companies to entrepreneurial support organizations, accelerators and venture capital firms – where they work as full-time, salaried employees in one of VFA’s 13 cities. Fellows become part of a community of like-minded individuals united by shared values and bonded in a passion for entrepreneurship. Through VFA programming, on-the-job learning, and an in-city experience, Fellows hone adaptive skills critical to a successful career in entrepreneurial roles while having access to coaching, capital, and connections through VFA to help Fellows develop an entrepreneurial mindset while leading, growing, and launching companies.
If you’re looking to make a large social impact as you start your career and love working with kids, City Year might just be your perfect fit. During your 11–months of national service, you’ll teach and mentor students at systematically under-resourced schools — and you don’t need a previous background in education to do so. In fact, students from all majors are invited to apply to support young learners through tutoring, by encouraging leadership skills, and providing other means of academic support. Read more here.
Need more inspiration as to why you should consider these standout organizations? Read our article '4 Reasons to Consider Working at a Non-Profit' here.