Blog post #1: Intro to Non-Profit/Idealist Guide

I know I can't be the only person who has heard negative things regarding non-profit organizations. My personal favorite is when I tell people that non-profit courses are part of my major and that I may get a job in one someday. It's always the same response. "You aren't going to make any money, you know that right?" This is exactly how the article starts off. The first word they use to describe a non profit is "charity." Non profits can offer so much more than just being nongovernmental organizations.

"Nonprofits can be defined by tax status, what they do with surplus revenue, the existence of a volunteer board of directors, or the fact that their work is directed by a mission statement."Non profits consist of various organizations trying to help shape a better community and there can be many advantages and disadvantages to working for a non profit. Some advantages include hands-on opportunities, flexible schedule, and the ability to do meaningful work. Disadvantages include lower wages, turnovers, and different structures than other sectors. Below I have listed some characteristics of non profit organizations:

- Most non profits will have a mission and/or vision statement for their organization. This will include why the organization exists and the goals they aim to achieve.
- All nonprofits will have a board, specifically a volunteer board. This consists of community leaders who overlook the organization, donors who support the organization financially, and staff members who commit to fulfilling the mission statement.
- Non profits are focused on providing benefits to the community as a whole. This is by law and by custom.
- Nonprofits have much more independence than public businesses. Businesses must answer to their owners while nonprofits answer to themselves and to their support system. This support system can include funders and volunteers. This allows for creativity and expanding on new approaches to meet goals.

After reading this article, I wish to learn more about the funding of non profits and how they raise money for things they need. I also wish to go more in depth on the section on tax exemption.