In today’s economic environment many non-profit organizations have seen a dramatic increase in human capital. Many professionals who have been laid off or otherwise in between jobs are seeking volunteer opportunities to give back, keep their skills sharp, and stay engaged in their communities. Volunteering is another means of networking. And just as the major mobile phone companies indicate in their ads, you want to have a reliable network supporting you.
Building a strong network takes time. And while it’s never too late to get started, it could be argued that those looking for paid work in today’s market should have been volunteering and building a network long before the economy came tumbling down. Regardless of what industry you work in or your level of expertise, you should find time to give back by actively volunteering.
Working in the architectural, engineering, and construction industry, there are countless opportunities to get involved and give back. A non-profit organization is always willing to accept monetary support. But active participation is also a monumental benefit to the organization and its mission. And you will be surprised at how much you get back in return.
Madhuri Subramaniam, Associate AIA, LEED AP with M. Baker Corp’s Baltimore office is one example of how a strong network can literally pay off. Like many design professionals in the region, Madhuri became another statistic of the economic downturn. For many years Madhuri has been actively volunteering at AIABaltimore, as well as other non-profit organizations. At AIA she participates on the design awards committee and the associates committee. She’s a past chair to the associates committee and is currently serving her second year on the Board of Directors. She remained active while unemployed and utilized her volunteer network for job leads.
When M. Baker Corp approached Karen Lewand, Executive Director at AIABaltimore, about a design opening at their firm, Karen was able to pass along several potential candidates and provide first-hand feedback on Madhuri and her performance. Had it not been for her involvement with AIA, Madhuri would have never known about the opportunity – let alone the personal feedback Karen was willing to provide.
Another success story is that of Jimmy Stewart, Vice President of Business Development for Legacy Builders. Jimmy became active with the Building Congress & Exchange of Metropolitan Baltimore, Inc. after joining the construction industry about five years ago. He directly attributes his involvement with the Exchange to the successful progression he’s made in the industry in a relatively short period. Jimmy has volunteered on several committees over the years and is currently serving a third year on the Board of Directors.
More recently, Jimmy could see the proverbial “writing on the wall” and knew his position would ultimately be eliminated with a large developer struggling to procure new projects during the credit crunch. As a result, he played an integral role in forming a new W/MBE and HUBZone contracting firm, Legacy Builders. His network of industry professionals have supported and assisted him during the startup.
These are just two examples of how a professional network built through active volunteerism can reap benefits on various fronts. So, regardless of your role, find a non-profit organization in your industry. Find a committee that will help you grow while also benefiting the organization’s mission. And, finally, get involved and participate.
Oak Contracting has built a culture of not only contributing to the community through charitable causes, but also actively giving back to the industry through professional trade associations.
Non-Profit Organizations Supported:
ACE Mentor Program
American Institute of Architects
American Society of Professional Estimators
Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc.
Association of Independent Maryland Schools
Association of School Business Officials
Building Congress & Exchange of Metropolitan Baltimore, Inc.
Construction Management Association of America
Greater Edgewood Education Foundation
Maryland Association of Boards of Education
Society for Marketing Professional Services
U.S. Green Building Council
Contact:
Dominick J. Dunnigan
Director of Marketing
410.828.1000