Choosing to pursue your accounting career goals in the not-for-profit sector is an excellent way to combine business skills and community service interests. Positions are available at all experience levels and at organizations of every size imaginable.

There's a great variety of not-for-profit organizations including schools, hospitals, churches, foster care agencies, and associations. Ranging from those who raise money from their communities of interest to privately funded groups and those receiving government grants, these organizations' accounting needs vary greatly, as do their needs for various kinds of technical accounting assistance.

One of the main reasons for choosing to work in the not-for-profit arena is the opportunity to use your skills to contribute to the goals of a worthwhile organization. Challenges come from working with those who may believe that accounting rules hinder service delivery. However, such challenges provide opportunities to overcome stereotypes about accountants and to play the role of educator. You can also create accounting systems that facilitate the work of the organization through streamlined procedures or by providing more useful financial information.

Knowing your work contributes to the organization's mission, whether directly or indirectly, is the ultimate reward.

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Source: Washington Society of CPAs.