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[Rich]

I'm looking for information on how best to enter the philanthropy field. I'm a retired teacher with extensive experience in fund raising, solicitation mailings, special events, newsletter publishing, etc. as a volunteer, and am now looking for a paid career in philanthropy.

[Susan]

Your age is an asset. Fund raisers are very scarce. All you need is some practical experience on your resume. I began my fund raising career 16 years ago in my 40s at a United Way. I served as a loaned executive and then was hired by them as a fund-raising manager.

All United Ways have a loaned-executive program. Most of them also hire "loaned executives," particularly retirees.  Usuallly the contract is for 17 weeks in the fall. It's a great way to get the experience on your resume.

Good luck!

[Dayna]

I've been in nonprofits all my life. Tell everybody you know --everybody -- and ask for contacts.

[DevDir]

You sound like an ideal candidate! If I had the choice between hiring someone with your level of experience versus hiring someone just out of school who is new in the profession (and perhaps liable to move on in a couple of years), I'd take you any day. If you're anywhere near the San Francisco Bay Area, contact via e-mail by clicking on my name above.

[cazsh]

I know this is an old post, but it is still relevant. By now  I hope that older workers looking for their Encore Career have discovered Encore.org, the network of people seeking midlife careers that offer pay, personal meaning and social impact.

[moderator]

Encore.org is a great resource. And you can find more resources on The Chronicle's Regeneration Web site.

Also, Philanthropy Careers' Career Switchers' Primer offers an archive of articles that can give you many practical tips.

[81137651]

I would also suggest getting to know your local community foundations.  Those foundations are always looking for committee members who can help make decisions about funding proposals. 

[dgamon22]

don't look your age as a disadvantage where in fact it is the other way.
es it is true that most companies prefer younger ones
but some successful companies rely on those who are way more experienced ones