The Only Thing Certain is Change

legaljen1969

I have been in a job situation where I feel like I am swimming against the tide. It has been that way for about four years. My supervising attorney is 82 and just does not want to retire or admit he is ready to do so. I think the reality of time is setting in on him. He has been so accommodating during my cancer journey. That said, we seem to agree that in 2021 the focus will become wrapping things up and closing out a lifelong law practice.
I have been approached about two wonderful non-profit opportunities with a friend of mine who is a dynamic fundraiser and director of resources. One is with Boys & Girls Clubs, where he used to work (and I have volunteered for special projects). The other is the hospice organization where he works now. I will be volunteering with the hospice office to see how that fits. I am considering both. I will go part time at my present job if either works out. So ready to move into a profession where I help others hands on.

MarcieB

Both of these opportunities seem like they could be very rewarding. I bet you would be a good fit for either position - where is your heart in this?

JaneA

Follow your heart, but also consider the stability. For me, stable is good. The hospice situation would be more financially stable and not dependent on grants and donations. Either one sounds great.

andreacha

legaljen1969 - I tend to agree with Jane about stability. Of course, there are no guarantees in anything, but the hospice position would appear to be the more stable of the two. And you are wise to volunteer there to see how you like it. Best of luck in whatever you choose to do.

Teachertina

I’m sure you would love either one of these opportunities. I lean towards Hospice after seeing the great work they do. When my mom was dying they were so helpful to our family with the support and information and guidance they gave us. Enjoy whichever one you choose and let us know how how it goes.

legaljen1969

The Boys & Girls Club situation would be a pretty stable situation too. I would be moving into a Resource & Development role as well. Having my degree in elementary education and over 12 years experience in domestic law is part of the reason the local President of Board of Directors asked my friend to get me involved. All of my experiences volunteering have been with the corporate personnel who run the local area clubs- helping with their fundraising events. I volunteered for one event in early 2019 and they asked me to come and help with their other two main fundraisers for the year. I would be working with some people I really enjoy and respect.
Right now, my heart is hoping for the Boys & Girls Clubs position, but we will see what happens. I may fall in love with the other.

LiveWithCancer

My cousin and many of her kids (they have 4 biological and 4 adopted foster children) were very active with the Boys and Girls Club. Several of them held paid jobs and others volunteered. I have a really special place in my heart for them because of my cousin's relationship. They do good work. And, of course, so does Hospice. I haven't personally dealt with Hospice but it is rare to hear anything negative about them. You'd be great at either job, I think.

fiddler

Both can be tremendously rewarding. One brings hope and stability to some kids with sad stories, one is facing death every day (hospice is for people in the last 3 months of life). I have worked with disadvantaged kids and with hospice patients. Personally, today, after a bout with cancer, I'd choose giggly kids over listening to a death rattle or moaning from pain; I don't want to be reminded how short my life is.

BuckeyeShelby

Both sound like amazing opportunities. Which one do you think matches your skills best? Or will allow for the most growth? I think your heart will guide you. And I don't think you could make a bad choice. Good luck!