Southwest Job Network (SJN) is unique as a non-profit organization because the volunteer opportunities we offer our members directly align with their needs. Professionals in transition frequently suffer from a lack of confidence, feelings of loneliness, and a potential lack of experience for their desired role. SJN’s model of volunteering through Innovation Councils addresses these issues and more. Volunteering provides opportunities for working on professional project teams and in operational groups while conducting a job search.
Our Innovation Councils are teams of self-directed professionals focused on specific functional areas, such as developing a workbook based on SJN curriculum, serving as SJN Ambassadors to other organizations, or rolling out a new technology initiative.
More than 75 volunteers are members of Innovation Councils. These volunteers benefit from feeling productive during transition, keeping current on their skill sets, and delivering valuable work for a fast-growing organization that allows them to showcase their experience to future employers.
SJN operates with little to no financial support. We have no sponsors except for organizations that donate our meeting space and some local businesses that occasionally make small donations. SJN Founder Chris Vicari has worked for almost eight years without compensation to provide and build SJN as a valuable community resource. She was awarded the Frances Young Community Heroes Award in 2008 in recognition of her efforts. Chris stepped down from President of SJN in March 2009 and while she is a member of the board of directors, now supports David Thompson as the new President.
GET INVOLVED!
I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do. – Edward Everett Hale
We have found that people who engage with us as volunteers have fun while job searching, gain valuable insight and individual support, and make many long-lasting friendships and business contacts.
