As I start week number four, I can’t help but look back and wonder where all the time has gone! I already feel so integrated into the office, that it seems like I’ve been here for at least a few months. Before the summer started I was worried that with only ten weeks to get integrated into the office, I would not be able to accomplish much, let alone feel like part of the team. But, after a few short days here, I realized that I was completely mistaken. Everyone at YFC has been so welcoming, friendly, and helpful that it’s taken no time to feel adjusted to my new job. Already I have attended a board meeting, took part in an all staff training session, and been invited to participate in a three-day retreat hosted by the national YFC office! Needless to say, my coworkers have made me feel right at home.

So far, one thing that stands out to me is the variety of “hats” every member of a nonprofit must wear. Though everyone has a specific job title, the lines of responsibility must be blurred at times to make things work more smoothly. For example, I work mainly with the development department in seeking in-kind donations for a specific program that YFC runs for at-risk youth. However, without input from people outside the department we would miss out on many opportunities to make relationships with potential donors. As with many things in life, development is all about who you know. If someone outside our department knows a friend of a friend who would love to donate something our program desperately needs, that knowledge helps save us time and energy and meets a need of our program.

From a young age we are all taught that working well in groups is an important skill to have, but it is not until you see this teamwork in action that you realize how integral it really is to success. What makes this teamwork so easy at YFC is the shared passion surrounding the mission of the organization. There may be things that people don’t want to do, but when they see how it relates to the mission, they are fueled by their passion and contribute in ways they would never have expected! As I look to my future in the nonprofit sector, I hope that I always hold onto my passion. The overarching passion and dedication that each staff member has for YFC keeps them grounded when the stress of wearing so many “hats” gets to be too much. Without passion it would be very easy to become burnt out and discouraged. However, there is never a feeling of negativity or pessimism in the office. I hope to carry this lesson with me as I continue in the nonprofit sector. There will be times when work will be hard and stressful, but if I can remember why I’ve chosen the nonprofit sector and tap into my passion, the stress will be worth it. 

Needless to say, my experience as a fellow has given me new insights into the nonprofit world and I can’t wait to see what the next few weeks bring!

Sarah—Central Ohio Youth for Christ