Thanks to everyone for their insight into gaining experience in financial
development… I am in the same situation as the original poster… graduating with
my degree in Art History (and Economics!) in the coming weeks.  And like her,
I've been struggling to get some experience in fundraising - a field that, to
me, doesn't seem to offer a lot of entry-level potential beyond being an admin
assistant.  But anyway, someone recommended doing development volunteer work
for another type of non-profit - and he or she mentioned the Red Cross in
passing.  So I have to pipe in here… I've been volunteering in the financial
development department of the American Red Cross in Chicago, and it's been
nothing but a positive experience… I've been stuck with a little bit of dirty
work (filing, etc) but have also learned a ton, from prospecting to third party
fundraising to grantwriting to donor acknowledgement to charity auctions (and
the all important Raiser's Edge!)… so if you are observant and show up to work
with a smile and a sense of professionalism (even though it's "only" volunteer
work), you'll hopefully be treated like part of the team.  And I have no doubt
that my experience here will translate beautifully to fundraising work at a
museum (which, like the original poster, is my ultimate goal).  So, as someone
who is doing it now, I'd recommend whole-heartedly to volunteer for a large,
well-known non-profit in ANY field… your skills will translate.  And you can do
it with minimum time commitment (I do 6 hours a week)… they will be so happy to
have your help, that they'll try to be flexible!

Best of luck,
Cindy
Northwestern University '01

P.S. Does anyone know of any listservs similar to this one, but for fundraising
professionals… and especially those in museums?  Thanks!

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