Groups like the World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations offer full, searchable NGO databases broken down into areas of interest. [3] X Research source
Some groups, like Acumen, look for individuals with general degrees and work experience in similar positions. Some groups, like Doctors without Borders, look for trained, licensed professionals.
Groups like VolunteerMatch can help you find local charities and non-profit organizations looking for volunteers. [6] X Research source
Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, or Marathi for India. Persian, Farsi, Arabic, or Kurdish for the Middle East. Tagalog or Cebuano for the Philippines.
For smaller cities and towns, internships are often available through government boards and services. If you’re in school, look for internship opportunities through your degree program.
Entry-level NGO jobs will often require a bachelor’s degree, though the specific major usually doesn’t matter. Upper-level and specialized NGO jobs will often require a particular bachelor or master’s degree, such as in education, public health, business management, or urban planning. [9] X Research source If you don’t have a degree, still apply! In some cases, organizations will wave education requirements if you have significant work or volunteer experience.
In addition to each organization’s website, NGO job openings can be found at places like NGO Job Board, NGO Recruitment, and Idealist. org. [10] X Research source
Created and managed 3 fundraisers for the local crisis center. Helped build houses for 12 low-income families. Ran multiple community center seminars on preventing child abuse.
For humanitarian organizations, include something like “Throughout my life, I’ve always wanted to help people, and I believe now more than ever that this is the best way to do that. ” For education organizations, include something like “My dream has always been to teach, and I believe I can have a greater impact through your organization. ” For medical organizations, include something like “I love the work I do, and I want to use my skills to help those who truly need it. ”
Remember, major organizations receive tons of applications every year, so a rejection is not a statement about your qualifications or character.
“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” “Why do you want to work for our organization?” “Why are you interested in this line of work?”
For short-term work, try to stay in touch with the people or groups you helped via letters, e-mails, or phone calls. For long-term work, take pictures throughout the process, that way you can truly see the impact you’ve had.
Many NGOs offer internal newsletters or a list of resources so employees and volunteers can stay current.
If you travel a lot, try to minimize your belongings or keep them relegated to small, compact digital devices. If you work strange hours, try to find long-distance friends you can stay connected with when nearby friends are not available.
