Charity refers to the work where several individuals come together and contribute financially or in service, with a certain social motive in mind. Personal or financial gains are never the motive but making valuable contributions towards the society is the aim of charitable trusts. Hence, charity work as a career would be different from other profiles.
Work Profile
Charity work is voluntary in nature. It is performed out of the willingness to do good for the society and work for its betterment. As work performed is voluntary, one may end up handling more than one responsibility at one time. It includes planning, resource and financial management, event organization and social work. Charity is performed in support of education, for protection of the environment, to generate awareness about health ailments or disorders or to deal with natural calamities or epidemics.
Job Scope
There are several designations one can take up while working for charity. These designations have different profiles, requirements and responsibilities. Each member's role is important in performing charity.
Fundraisers: They visit individuals and organizations with high incomes, communicate the goals, plan and requirements of the charity organization and convince them to make financial contributions.
Event Organizers: They organize several events for the purpose of fundraising, promotion or social cause and ensure active participation from all concerned members.
Treasurers: They maintain an account of the donations received, expenses borne and present the financial status of the organization periodically.
Committee: Committee is formed of the individuals who plan, manage, guide and execute the organization's charity functions and ensure it meets its goals. The chairperson and the secretary are a part of this committee.
Volunteers: Those individuals who participate in charity programs voluntarily and make certain the benefits of the charity reach out to the deserving members.
Qualifications and skills
Most charitable organizations do not keep qualifications criteria while hiring candidates. Only those in core committee require competence in accounting and management. Volunteers from different backgrounds are welcome to participate in charitable functions. The key requisite for charitable work is the willingness to perform charity work, communication, organizational, data management skills along with physical and mental strength.
Work Environment
As there are many individuals handling different responsibilities under charity work, the work environment differs with every designation.
Career Advancement
One can begin charity assistance work by taking up responsibilities as a volunteer, working on field and coordinating with the people directly. With due experience and understanding of the charitable institute, they may work as committee members and handle the management of the organization.
If someone pursues charity functions in addition to their regular jobs, it helps the individual progress in his career as the candidate is looked upon as someone who goes the extra mile to fulfil obligations.
Career Prospects
Due to the peculiar nature of charity work, the career prospects are different from those of other profiles.
We hope this work description helps you make up your mind if a career in charity work is for you or not. It may not be a financially rewarding career but is surely going to be an enriching and satisfying experience.