Charity work is effort invested in improving society for altruistic reasons. You are rarely financially compensated for your work when you volunteer.
So let’s start with a charity – what is it?
Charities can be registered or non-registered organizations that operate in a sector that is termed not-for or non profit. They are not considered businesses, as they operate for the benefit of the public and do not distribute any profits. The not-for-profit sector is a growing one, as groups respond to the growing and ever-changing needs of our society. A single charity may evolve through time, but rarely does it change its focus on a particular cause, whether it’s to promote the needs of the elderly, help keep hospitals running smoothly, protect the environment, or so forth.
Manpower
The primary requirement for a charity is manpower, as is the case with most other organizations (for profit or not). Because charities operate in a different manner, volunteers tend to comprise the biggest portion of any charity’s staff. In the US alone, there are millions of people across the country who volunteer their time, and it is this that charities rely on to keep them thriving.
Just about any position offered by a regular business is offered by a charity, and it’s just a matter of finding the right charity that requires your special skill set. Examples of volunteer positions range in administration, marketing and even janitorial services, depending on the organization’s operating facilities. If you’re a receptionist by profession, you’ll most likely be able to volunteer your services. If you’re a banker, there’s certainly something you’d be able to do.
So where do charities get their money?
Any organization needs capital to keep them running. While manpower is vital, just as important is their funding source. Charities may obtain funds through a variety of means, including fundraising through special events (telethons are a good example of this), direct marketing and from the government.