Nonprofit Social Service Directors

Employers

Nonprofit social service organizations vary in size, purpose, and location. There are large, national nonprofit youth advocacy agencies in the thick of policy issues in Washington, D.C., for example. On the other hand, there are hospices, shelters, and youth support centers in small, community-oriented settings. The nature of the work a director does may also vary, depending on the organization and its size, needs, goals, and board of directors. For example, some social welfare nonprofits focus on changing legislation or public perceptions of certain social issues. These organizations will work differently from those that focus more on working directly with those needing services.

Starting Out

With your B.S.W. or M.S.W. in hand, you should be able to find entry-level work in the social services field. Your college career services office will have contacts to get you started, and the contacts you've made through your professors and colleagues will be invaluable in referring you to vacant positions. Many social service directors started their careers as volunteers and then, as employees, they worked their way up the ranks.