What a Philanthropy VP at United Way wishes they knew before Nonprofit
Katie wishes someone had explained the variety of career paths within the nonprofit sector, as when first entering the industry, they were unaware that roles beyond "that program person" existed, including positions in accounting, fundraising, and marketing, which form "a whole nother half" of the field that is often overlooked.
Nonprofit Careers, Career Paths, Fundraising, Marketing, Industry Awareness
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Katie Khaism-San
VP Philanthropic Strategies
United Way of San Diego County
SDSU & Springfield College
Humanities, Business Management & Admin
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Communication and Marketing
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. The nonprofit sector has diverse roles beyond program-focused positions, including accounting, fundraising, and marketing.
2. Understanding the variety of career paths within the nonprofit industry is crucial for newcomers.
3. Many people entering the nonprofit sector are unaware of the full range of roles available.
Transcript
And what have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
When I entered the industry, I didn't even know this role existed. I wish someone had explained the different roles that exist in a nonprofit organization.
When you think of a nonprofit, you might just think of the program person. While that is a part of it, there's a whole other half that people don't explain.
You need accountants, people who are fundraising, and you need marketing. People often don't explain that part. I wish someone had sat me down and explained the different career paths within the nonprofit industry.