S2 D11 - An interesting opportunity presents a conundrum

[Alyssa]

So here is the situation. I'm really honestly not sure what to do and am kind of just sitting back, gathering information and waiting. However, I would welcome any input or suggestions.

I work (and have for most of my career) in non profit. I really love working with volunteers. I like being the enthusiastic cheerleader who helps people do things they might not otherwise do. I like speaking to groups. I like managing projects. I like developing new ideas.

I also want to be financially prosperous and grow in areas of leadership. Non profit and financial prosperity generally do not mix. lol. sad fact.

i am working a holiday temp job (oct - jan) with my local food bank. they are a GREAT organization and I have a history with them as one of their member agencies when i ran a homeless shelter several years ago. I would definitely be interested in continuing with this organization.

yesterday i was sort of offered a position as a volunteer facilitator. 75% of the time i would be in the warehouse working with volunteers, leading crews, welcoming them, encouraging them, doing tours, etc. stuff i love to do. 25% of the time i would be working with the other two volunteer management staff on developing better programs for our volunteers, helping member agencies with their volunteer programs, etc. They have been looking for someone and apparently i was recommended by several people. They are sounding me out to see if i'm interested and i'm trying to find out more info.

So here is the dilemma. My dream is to develop my volunteer management skills to the point where I could serve as a consultant for non profits who want to improve their volunteer programs. I do not have the credentials yet to do this. (I have a masters in management and some experience, but need more to really sell myself as a consultant.) This position is in the right vein, but a much MUCH lower ranking position than what I was thinking of. I am speaking with an HR person today to find out how much it pays, but it may not pay what I am hoping for either. I've cut my income by about half as it is since my lay off.

Obviously I need more info. Maybe they're going to pay me a hundred dollars an hour! :) But the real crux of this issue is:

- Do I take a job that would be very fulfilling but is a sidestep in my career path at best (a step backwards at worst)?

OR

- Do I go look for another job that will acheive my goals of getting me closer to becoming an expert in volunteer management, but pays much better?

Am I being prideful? Is the Universe/God bringing me a gift in this position? Would I be foolish to pursue a position that will be fun at the expense of my (admittedly somewhat erratic) career? Is this a sign to really go forward with my volunteer consultant stuff?

ACK!!!!


Would really appreciate anyone's input.

Thanks!!!!