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| Re: NPO Work - time to give up?
Posted by Julie Rodda on 12/17/2007, 7:42 pm, in reply to "Re: NPO Work - time to give up?"
VIP Poster
Dear Rose:
I believe your post will resonate with many of us who have "been there...and done that" as the '90s phrase would go.
I also started out completely as a volunteer, with expectations that at some point I would be earning compensation for those services. Like you, I learned the hard way with organizations unprepared to finance necessary measures. The only volunteer fund development or grant writing I currently perform is for organizations for which I participate as a board member, and I am very pleased to be donating these services.
The important thing to remember is that you must choose NOT to be walked on, and NOT to be coerced, and NOT to give more of your time than you can happily live with. As others have responded, the way you portray yourself to these folks is either going to say "I will work very hard for you for free", (in which case you leave yourself open for more dissapointment) or, "I propose to do all I can to assist your organization be stronger, more financially competent, (fill in the blank). However, this will take much work and dedication for all involved, and I strongly recommend setting some clearly obtainable benchmarks to measure progress (so they can see results). My fees are very fair and reasonable, and this is my fee structure..."
In terms of whether or not you should throw in the towel on your current venture, only you can answer that. We can note many altruistic ideals, but we do not pay your rent--you do. I have had the benefit of not having to support a family on what I have made, nor have to have quick turn around on any dollars invested. Not all have that luxury.
Julie Rodda
http://www.roddaconsulting.com/
Funding Consulting, Grant Research
& Proposal Writing Services
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