ABSTRACT
Nonprofit organizations offer educators within the field of child and adolescent development a unique opportunity to develop, improve, and provide important services for the healthy development of children and families. According to the Legal Information Institute at Cornell Law School, nonprofit organizations can be charitable, educational, religious, scientific, or focused on literary activities. This chapter discusses common job positions within nonprofit organizations, explores the mission of well-established nonprofits, and outlines the essential skills needed to pursue careers in nonprofit organizations that focus on children and families. Nonprofit organizations that focus on children and families have social justice focus that underscores the need for employees to understand diverse cultural norms, values, and beliefs systems. This type of knowledge can aid team members in understanding diverse communities, to develop unique solutions and culturally appropriate practices, services, and programming. State associations have guidelines and ethical practices for the effective functioning of nonprofit organizations that range from financial transparency to demonstrating outcomes and effectiveness.
