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There are actually careers in giving, and, if you are planning on getting one, entry-level philanthropy jobs are your way in.

The field of philanthropy and charity is not just for the very rich; it can be for anyone who wants to help and improve their community and the world.

Dr. Susan Aurelia Gitelson’s Giving Is Not Just for the Very Rich, shows us that everyone has a role to play when it comes to philanthropy.

“Giving is for all of us, who, in our own ways, have the power and the capacity to make a difference.”

One way of making a difference is starting a career where you give back every day.

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Why Choose a Career in Philanthropy?

Working in philanthropy means that you will be helping people. Ideally, it should also mean that you want to be helping people; you want to work for good causes; and you want to make the world better.

Philanthropy work is meaningful.

But it can also make you happy, with multiple studies from across the world that have been conducted many times. These studies generally show that people who give are happier. Dr. Gitelson shares that “people who give are usually happier than those who do not.”

Imagine feeling that joy as your job, and you will be getting to help others and feel good about your work. Philanthropic careers for new grads offer this chance.

Use your skills for good right after school!

Types of Entry-Level Philanthropy Jobs

There are many entry-level philanthropy jobs out there that do not require you to be rich or have years of experience.

Here are some common starting roles.

Foundation Assistant Positions

A foundation is any charitable organization that gives money to good causes.

But which causes are good, and how much should be given?

Many foundations need assistants, and as a foundation assistant, you will be helping a team whose job is to determine who will be given funding.

You might do research, write reports, or talk to people asking for grants. It is a great way to learn how foundations work, and working at one lets you see how money is used to help communities.

Junior Fundraising Roles

Fundraising is a critical component for charities and a cornerstone of modern philanthropy. Without money, how can philanthropy be done?

Junior fundraising roles are perfect for starters.

In this job, you help raise money, plan events, talk to donors, and use social media.

Dr. Gitelson shows how necessary fundraising is in her book, saying groups like the “Robin Hood Foundation” regularly raise millions to fight poverty through fundraising.

You can be part of that effort. You learn how to ask for support and tell stories that inspire people to give.

Program Coordinator for Nonprofits

Nonprofits run programs to help with local and global initiatives. These programs, often tied up with government help, can be difficult to manage and comprehend. A program coordinator can be helpful.

You might work at a food bank, an animal shelter, or an arts group. As a program coordinator, you help make sure the program runs well.

This is one of the best nonprofit jobs for beginners because you see firsthand the direct impact of your work.

Dr. Gitelson gives the example of “Publicolor,” which paints schools to help students. You could help coordinate a similar program.

How to Find Charity Work Entry-Level

Finding entry-level charity work is easier than you think. Start by looking in your local community.

• Look online at websites that list nonprofit jobs for beginners. Search for titles like “assistant,” “coordinator,” or “associate.”
• Volunteering first can lead to a full-time job. Doing this shows you care and learn about the group. Dr. Gitelson says, “Volunteering is so central to the American way of life.” It is the easiest way to start.
• Use your local network and tell people you want to work in philanthropy. Teachers, family, or friends might know of openings.
• Check foundations and community groups, similar to those mentioned in the book, often hire starters. They “provide a simple, powerful, and highly personal approach to giving.”

Skills You Need for Entry-Level Philanthropy Jobs

You already have the skills for these jobs. Here are the main ones:

• Good communication helps you write and speak clearly, allowing you to talk to your teammates and the general public.
• A sense of organization will help you handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Being organized helps you keep track of things that are critical to success.
• A willingness to learn can be extremely beneficial, especially when you’re just starting out. So, be ready to ask questions and try new things.
• A passion to help is the most important skill when working in philanthropy. You must care about helping others if you want to succeed in this field. Dr. Gitelson reminds us that your “time and energies alone can be very valuable for improving the world.”

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Your Fresh Start in Philanthropic Careers

Starting with entry-level philanthropy jobs can lead to a long career in helping people both directly and indirectly. You might become a fundraiser, a program director, or even run a foundation.

Dr. Gitelson shares stories of people at all levels in Giving Is Not Just for the Very Rich.

Some of them started as volunteers or in junior fundraising roles, working hard and moving up until they reached their goals.

You can too.

Dr. Gitelson writes, “Since you have decided you want to give to others with maximum impact, this book will help you examine your values and motivations… and become an active, creative, and innovative giver.”

This applies to your career as well.

Start your giving career today. The world needs more people who want to help. Entry-level philanthropy jobs are waiting for someone like you.

You can get a nonprofit job for beginners and begin making a difference.

Inspired to learn more about how you can make an impact? Get Dr. Susan Aurelia Gitelson’s essential guide, Giving Is Not Just for the Very Rich, for a complete roadmap to giving and building a meaningful career in philanthropy.