Beyond the Myth: How Professionals Can Do Good and Do Well

In attending a networking meeting with a group of professionals in career transitions, I found that many of them shared my desire to align their careers with their values, particularly in sectors dedicated to social good. However, there persists a common misconception that working for non-profits or NGOs means sacrificing financial stability. Let's challenge this notion and explore how pursuing a career in these sectors can offer both purpose and financial stability.

Contrary to popular belief, doing good is not exclusive to volunteer work. (I totally encourage volunteer work, even a couple of hours a week offers a profound sense of fulfillment!) In fact, Canada is home to a vast network of non-profit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that offer fulfilling career opportunities with competitive salaries. According to recent statistics, there are over 170,000 non-profits registered in Canada, spanning various causes and sectors, from healthcare and education to environmental conservation and social justice. Additionally, there are thousands of NGOs operating across the country, advocating for change and addressing global issues.

Working for non-profits or NGOs goes beyond financial rewards. It provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our communities and contribute to positive change on local, national, and global scales. Here in Montreal, renowned organizations such as Centraide du Grand Montréal , Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Canada and the David Suzuki Foundation are just a few examples of entities dedicated to creating a better world while offering fulfilling careers to professionals.

For individuals interested in pursuing careers in non-profits or NGOs while ensuring financial stability, there are several strategies to consider. Networking within the sector, attending industry events, and connecting with local organizations in Montreal can help uncover hidden opportunities. Additionally, leveraging transferable skills from other industries, such as marketing, finance, or technology, project management can open doors to diverse roles within non-profits or NGOs.

Share your own experiences or insights on balancing purpose and profit in your career journey. Your story can inspire many and the goodness factor has the opportunity to multiply exponentially and inspire transformative change on a larger scale.