What about writing for nonprofit organizations?

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Absolutwrite

I want to be a part of local or global organizations that empower others; I don't know how to do this as a writer. I've written a newsletter for one agency; it's not a nonprofit, but is a hospice committed to helping people and I liked writing punchy copy knowing that I was helping an organization I believed in and not just selling something because I was told to.

I don't know how to find out about the needs of others such organizations. Should I just call them? Does anyone know of resources for writers interested in nonprofits?

I've heard about grantwriting; what other types of writing can one do for places like the World Wildlife Fund, the Hunger Project, Fistula Foundation, the Jane Goodall Institute, and so on?
 

zumi

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I don't know about the needs of the specific organizations you've mentioned (maybe others posting will), but I do know that plenty of nonprofits do hire writers either directly or through consulting agencies for grantwriting, newsletter and publications writing and web copy.

Of course, most of the smaller orgs out there can't afford to pay outside writers, and instead rely on in-house staffers or volunteers. You might have luck, though, with the larger, more established organizations. I would suggest that you call the organizations of interest directly, and ask someone in HR or communications/public affairs if they are in need of any freelance help.

The pay may not be outstanding, but as you say, there's a lot to be said about writing what you believe in. On the other hand, I have worked for a consulting firm and been granted freelance assignments via that connection -- and the pay has been quite decent. Because I'm committed to certain causes, I've also done the occasional pro bono newsletter work for smaller orgs that can't afford to pay.

Re. your other question about resources. I don't know of any for freelancers specifically, but the following site has a wealth of info for nonprofit jobs in general, some writing-related. http://www.nonprofitjobscoop.org/

Good luck!
 

zumi

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Oh, and another thing:) :

Just about every organization wants/needs publicity. As an alternative to writing for your favorite organizations, you can write about them. Come up with story ideas related to the organizations that you care about, and pitch away to editors at your local publications. Nonprofits are filled to the brim with stories to tell...
 

Absolutwrite

Zumi,

Thanks! I checked out the Nonprofit Jobs Cooperative; the job postings seem to be primaily in California, but I will check back.

Thank you for mentioning consulting agencies--this is a good track to consider.

I also appreciate your recommendation that I write about causes and organizations I want to promote. It is an excellent suggestion.
 

Absolutwrite

Hi Zumi,

Oh, yes--idealist.org. I have been on that website and end up spending hours each time--there is so much information. It's a good resource, but sprawling in its content, though well-organized and with good links.
 
oarsman

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You could do a search on VolunteerMatch http://www.volunteermatch.org to get some ideas of nonprofit groups that need writers. If you use their advance search, you can enter "Writer" as the skill and you'll likely get a good list. I did a search on my state and saw ads for copywriters, grant writers, marketing materials, and so on.

Since this is a volunteer site, you won't get paid. But, you might be able to use the volunteer work to get ideas for paying work and possibly get contacts for future paying work. And, if it is a cause that you feel strongly about, you might not mind doing the work as a volunteer.

oarsman
 

editingisme

I have always asked myself about non-profit freelance writing. For those of you who are looking to break in the industry, or to get started consult the various non-profit chapter directories/associations in your area. there should be plenty of listings on the internet. this should make your search for potential freelance work/contracts somewhat less time consuming.
 
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