Week: 12 Interview

My interview with my mentor Rachel went very well. I could tell her enthusiasm and passion for her job from asking her the sample questions given to us this week. When I asked Rachel what her challenges were she replied that her main challenge is prioritizing what has to be done. Future for Kids (FfK)has such a small staff that each person has to be working on multiple projects and tasks. She also told me that it can be difficult working with so many different personalities. You have to learn how everyone works and how to deal with people differently. Rachel also told me that she deals with stresses in the workplace by planning ahead. If you learn to stay prepared and appropriately delegate responsibilities you have less to worry about.
Rachel most enjoys the fact that her position benefits such a great cause. It is exciting for her to find good volunteers and interns that are willing to help out of the goodness of their hearts. She likes the fact that FfK benefits the needy and the services are free. She also appreciates that FfK is a small organization so there is freedom to be creative. One thing that Rachel dislikes about working for a non-profit is that you are always strapped for money. You always have to try to constantly get funding for things which can be difficult at times.
When I questioned Rachel about how she separates the personal from the professional and she had an interesting response. She said that in her case working at such a small, intimate, organization that it is beneficial to develop personal relationships with the clientele and staff. It brings them closer, makes it easier to work together and helps things run smoother. Rachel's past experience in event planning has helped her to deal with different personalities and become flexible to the different needs of those she works with. Her ideal work environment is one which is relaxed, positive and inspiring. Ultimately a place that doesn't feel like work because you truly enjoy being there and doing what you do.
In closing I asked Rachel, personally, what is her biggest reward from working for a non-profit. She said she gets great enjoyment out of networking and meeting great people. She especially enjoys meeting volunteers because they are so eager to help the lives of others. She truly values the relationships and friendships that she has the opportunity to make. Rachel said that she knew she wanted to work in a non-profit since college and she looks forward to possibly helping out other charities as well in the future.