Today I started a Foundation Course on working for charities. Run by Working for a Charity (part of NCVO) in London it helps people who are interested in voluntary organisations to understand more about them and to apply for jobs successfully. The course runs for seven days from now until the end of June.
I have been working for charities (CMS and the Church of England) for some while, but feel that I lack an appreciation of some of the differences between charities and commercial businesses. I hope that attending the course will be enjoyable and “sharpen me up” as I look for work.
The first day has been enjoyable with good company and good teaching. Most of the participants are middle-aged: coping with redundancy or returning to work after looking after children.
I was amused to listen to some of the particular characteristics of charities, for example a passion for the work (good) and too many meetings (not always so good!).