Non-Profit Job Openings for this Week

Here are the latest posts from Charitable Advisors for Non-Profit job openings. Let me know if you see anything of interest.

Youth Services Workers, St.Vincent Indianapolis - Part-time and Full-time available. Planning, coordinating, and implementing programs and activities for youth. Writing and implementing grants. Accessing community resources. Assessing the needs of youth and making referrals. Interacting with children and parents of diverse backgrounds. Ability to implement program curriculum to Kindergarten through High School students. Strong computer skills. Teaching experience in classroom setting preferred. Experience working with youth is preferred. 2+ years of college preferred. Some weekends and evenings. To apply, please visit www.jobs.stvincent.org (click on external – new applicant) and reference the corresponding job # (Full-time- Job # 25852, Part-time- Job # 25734). EOE (Featured October 2 and 9)

Development Associate, American Legion Auxiliary - Responsible for maintaining computerized donor files, and providing support for mailings, events and fundraising efforts of the development division. Play an integral part in building and maintaining positive relationships with ALA members. Other responsibilities include communicating and working with outside vendors for direct mailings, donation processing, and other general fundraising activities. Includes donor research and administrative support for the development division. Requires bachelor’s degree plus min. 2 yrs experience in administrative work. Must be efficient in Microsoft Office Suite and database programs; Excellent written and oral communication skills; An understanding of accounting principals and techniques. Respond with cover letter, resume, 3 references and completed application, found on our website (www.legion-aux.org) to: Jill Billups (jbillups@legion-aux.org), Human Resources Coordinator, American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters, 777 North Meridian St., 3rd Floor, Indianapolis, IN 46204. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Development Director, St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf - Responsible for strategically planning and directing all fund development and public relations efforts to serve the organization’s mission. Requires leading, planning, and executing, a comprehensive development program including annual fund, donor cultivation, major gifts solicitation, planned giving, and volunteer management. Must be a graduate of an accredited college or university and have experience in fund development, not for profit management or related experience. Must have demonstrated successful experience in marketing and fund development management; implementation and evaluation of development programs; excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational skills, computer skills and database management. Respond with cover letter, resume, references, and salary requirements to marniem@indy.net. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Executive Director, Martin Luther King Multi-Service Center - The Martin Luther King Multi-Service Center serves children and families through creative programs that promote hope and a sense of community. The Board seeks a candidate with strong leadership, management and business skills, particularly in the area of financial development. Demonstrated competency in program and site administration in a Social Service setting is an asset. Salary $60,000+. Send resume to be received by October 15, 2007 to: Maurice Cox, Board Chair 4533 Broadway Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 or e-mail to: mauricelcox@aol.com. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Immigrant Outreach Specialist, Program and Product Development Service Section, The Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library - Develop, implement, administer and evaluate system wide programs and events which motivate reading, promote community literacy, and increase use of library materials, information and resources. Duties include coordinating specialized work in development, production and delivery of new, innovative immigrant outreach services and programs to current users and expanding audiences; serve as liaison between Library departments, community organizations and businesses that are partners or sponsors of system wide programs. Min. Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Communication, Social work or related field. Masters Degree in Library Science preferred. Must have 1-2 yrs community related programming and knowledge of immigrant communities. Must be fluent in both written and conversational Spanish. Experience in library setting preferred. EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. Drug-free workplace. Apply online by Oct. 9, 4 p.m. at www.imcpl.org. (Featured October 2)

Citywide Community Development Internship, The Indianapolis Coalition for Neighborhood Development (ICND) is currently seeking undergraduate and graduate level candidates for its Citywide Community Development Internship. ICND is an association of neighborhood-based community development corporations who facilitate the redevelopment of Indianapolis neighborhoods. Interns have an opportunity to perform duties related to housing, public safety, and community and economic development. Must be organized, detail oriented, have strong written and verbal communication skills, solid research skills, and be proficient in Microsoft Office. To apply, send resume, cover letter and 3 references to: Michelle Christopher, ICND Program Manager at mchristopher@iaced.org. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Bookkeeper, Global Gifts - (approximately 10 hours/week) Ideal candidate will have previous cash management experience, be able to work with financial software programs (Quicken, Excel and Quick Books) and have a demonstrated appreciation for the mission of Global Gifts. Complete job description at www.globalgiftsindy.com under the opportunities tab. Submit resume, cover letter, and references to Global Gifts, attn: General Manager, 1201 Central Avenue, Box 10, Indianapolis, IN 46202 or to global_gifts@sbcglobal.net. (Featured October 2)

Receptionist, Reach For Youth, Inc. (Part-time) - Community base not-for-profit organization providing counseling and juvenile diversion for youth and families is currently seeking a part time receptionist. Requires 2 years office experience. Must have knowledge of Microsoft Office suites, ability to answer multi-line phone system, excellent verbal and written communication skills, maintain confidentiality and ability to travel between office locations. Send resume to: DeShawn Easley, 3505 N. Washington Blvd., 46205. No phone calls please. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Training and Development Specialist, Organizational Development Team, Indiana Farm Bureau, Inc. - Specialize in curriculum development, facilitation, coordination and implementation of education, training and leadership development programming by assisting Indiana Farm Bureau teams and county Farm Bureau leaders within the framework of the organization’s strategic plan. Experience with volunteers, ADDIE methodology and facilitator lead instruction. Basic knowledge of management techniques, strong research and excellent communication and facilitation skills. Bachelors degree in education, management or communications, plus min. 5 yrs experience in related fieldand a general knowledge of non-profit associations, agriculture and Farm Bureau. Respond by Oct. 12 with references and career accomplishments to: M. Kim Vail, Director, Organizational Development, Indiana Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 1290, Indianapolis, IN 46206, or kvail@infarmbureau.org. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Director of Development, Acacia Fraternity Foundation - The Foundation has begun implementation of a $5 million capital campaign to endow its existing programs and fund Acacia Fraternity’s new, comprehensive Cornerstones membership development program for undergraduate members. Manage and lead all aspects of capital campaign, including working with alumni volunteers and fraternity staff, final preparation of campaign case materials, donor development, communications, visits with top tier prospects and all other elements of planning and implementation. Bachelors degree plus min. 3-5 yrs experience in fund development, preferably capital campaign management. Respond with cover letter, resume, references and salary requirements to acacianat@acacia.org or Darold Larson, Executive Director, 8777 Purdue Road, Suite 225, Indianapolis, IN 46268. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Director of Development, The 100 Black Men of Indianapolis - Under the supervision of the Executive Director, establish and administer a development program, which should include: involving volunteers, conducting and supporting special events; researching, cultivating and soliciting potential donors; searching prospects; and proposal writing and grant management. Bachelor’s degree required and fund raising, marketing or sales experience helpful. Must be committed to the objectives of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, have excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, as well as, ability to think strategically and develop long-term relationships. Compensation commensurate with degree and experience. Send resume, references and salary history to: Executive Director, 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, 3901 North Meridian, suite 10, Indianapolis, IN 46208. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Site Director II - Before & After School Program / West District, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis - Plan and implement daily program activities for Before and/or After School Program in Wayne Township. Responsibilities include supervising site staff and children, providing and leading curriculum/activities, communicating with parents and school personnel, and maintaining program records/documentation. Must be 21 years old, have 3-4 yrs experience working with children and a BA/BS degree in Child Development, Education or related field, or its equivalent, is highly preferred. Requires good communication skills, knowledge of child development and behavior management, a high regard for safety and the ability to obtain YMCA training. Respond by Oct. 8 with 3-5 prof. references to: YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, 615 North Alabama Street, Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or e-mail with job title to jobs@indymca.org. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Accounts Payable Specialist, Nonprofit Processing & Accounting Services, a program of Indiana Association of United Ways - Join our growing nonprofit accounting services team. Duties include coding and processing accounting clients’ payables. Assist other accounting team-members with receivables, payroll, and general ledger. Experience in a nonprofit preferred. Send resume with cover letter and salary expectation to: Kathy Downing, NP&AS, 3901 N. Meridian St., Ste 306, Indpls, IN 46208, or email to kathy.downing@iauw.org. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Manager of TeamMS and Marketing, Indiana State Chapter National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Requires Bachelors Degree plus 2 yrs publications/PR experience and proven success in communications and volunteer development. Knowledge and proven skills in organization, evaluation, problem-solving, and public speaking. Focus on boosting quantity and productivity of top team events and building strong media relations and volunteer, participant and donor relationships to achieve the funding goals of the Indiana State Chapter. Provides direction in executing a TeamMS strategy. Respond with cover letter, resume, references, and salary requirements to: kkovac@msindiana.org or K. Kovac, Director of Development National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Indiana State Chapter 7301 Georgetown Road Suite 112 Indianapolis, IN 46268 (Featured October 2 and 9)

Executive Director, The Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis - An all-volunteer orchestra, presents a series of classical concerts, as well as several pops concerts in collaboration with Indy Parks. Organization also has several educational/outreach programs including “Listen & Learn,” summer camp “Strings and Jazzy Things,” and the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra. Manage all staff members and volunteers. Office management, day-to-day operational responsibilities of the organization and its programs, including accounting functions, contract writing/negotiation, record keeping and retention. Fund Raising – grant writing, grant presentations, facilitation of all fund raising efforts. Liaison between the organization and other arts organization within the community. Experience in office management, including accounting, records management and retention, grant writing preferred. Computer skills including MS Word, Excel, and Publisher preferred. Respond to: info@philharmonicindy.org or call the office at (317) 229-2367. (Featured October 2 and 9)

Director of Development - A leading Indiana non-profit organization seeks a well seasoned Director of Development to lead this long established organization’s efforts to raise funds and community awareness of the organization. Minimum Bachelor’s Degree, and at least 5-10 years of senior level fundraising. Experience in grant writing, special events, major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, planned giving, and experience with Capital Campaigns. Experience managing small team of professionals and the ability to interface with a wide variety of individuals in the philanthropic community in Indiana. Please forward cover letter, resume, writing sample, and salary requirements via e-mail to Search Committee: for_change@hotmail.com (Featured October 2 and 9)

Grant Writer - One of Indiana’s leading non-profit organizations. Reports to the Director of Development. Minimum 5 yrs grant writing experience. Must have excellent writing skills, record of writing successful grants. Must understand Philanthropic environment and be able to work with a small team of professionals. A bachelor’s degree is required. Please provide sample of 2 successful grant proposals. Respond with cover letter, resume, writing samples and salary history and expectations to Search Committee: for_change@hotmail.com (Featured October 2 and 9)

Latest Non-Profit Job Postings

I just received this week's non-profit job postings for central Indiana from Charitable Advisors. I forgot to link into their site last week (sorry Bryan). If you're not signed up for their weekly email and interested in this job sector, you should be. I's a wealth of information and opportunities. Let me know if you apply for any of the positions and how it's going.

President, Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People – Seeking a dynamic individual to lead this eight-year-old agency in its work to provide group grief support programming to children and their families. The candidate must possess strong leadership, interpersonal and business skills. In addition, experience with fundraising (including writing grant proposals), special event planning, staff management, and budgeting/financial oversight is essential. Requires a Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent experience. Candidate should have demonstrated success in managing multiple projects with multiple constituencies. Respond by October 5 with resume, letter of interest/availability and salary expectations to johnvice1@comcast.net. (Featured September 25 and October 2)

President, Near North Development Corporation (NNDC) -- Based in downtown Indianapolis, NNDC is seeking to fill its senior leadership position. The President is responsible for the development, implementation, and monitoring of all plans and programs for the organization. Strong candidates will have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field. Knowledge of urban planning, real estate and/or economic development, housing issues and non-profit management are essential. Please submit all inquires to Orson Mason at Omason@clarian.org. For more information and a full job description please visit www.nearnorthcdc.org. (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Bookkeeper/Accountant, Connect2Help - Seeking part time bookkeeper experienced in nonprofit accounting. Must possess knowledge of not-for-profit general accounting and finance. Chosen candidate will produce monthly financial statements and handle month-end closing procedures, account reconciliations, billing, regular statutory filings, prepare audit documents and interact with agency auditors, board members and staff. Excellent oral and written communication skills, exceptional interpersonal skills and judgment, effective organizational skills, and strong computer skills. Flexible hours. Please respond with cover letter, resume, references, and salary requirements to: lengel@Connect2Help.org or Lynn Engel, P.O. Box 30530, Indianapolis, IN 46230-0530 (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Team Leader, St Vincent - Responsible for all aspects of caring for the sites in an efficient manner. Ideal candidate will display excellent leadership qualities, patience, teamwork and dependability. Previous supervisory experience a plus. Reference job opening ID number 25709 or 25296. Interested candidates should apply online at: www.jobs.stvincent.org. (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Director of Membership, The Indianapolis Zoo - Lead one of the most vital membership programs in Indiana with a base of over 34,000 households and annual revenue in excess of $3.5 million. Requires 5+ yrs experience in a non-profit membership department -- 2 or more of those years in direct staff supervision -- with experience in direct mail offers and subscription programs. Excellent organizational skills required with demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret information regarding the membership program. Strong computer skills/experience with database software (Raiser’s Edge preferred) a must. Experience with customer call and service centers helpful. Strong marketing and communications skills with a BA/BS in business, marketing or related field required. Apply online at www.indyzoo.com or Email resumes to jobs@indyzoo.com. No phone calls please. EOE/Drug Free Workplace. (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Bilingual Specialist, Family Development Services (FDS) - FDS manages the Head Start and Early Head Start educational programs in Marion and Hamilton counties. Plan and implement an annual rotation schedule for enrollment of children who speak Spanish, facilitate communications between program staff and families, assist with home visits. High School diploma, Bachelors in Spanish, Early Childhood Ed preferred. Must be fluent and able to translate to and from Spanish. At least one year exp with children, knowledge of computers, excellent communication skills, and valid drivers license. Some local travel. Competitive salary + generous benefits. Respond to: Family Development Services, 3637 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, f.317.803.9486, EOE/M/F/V/D (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Coordinator, Marketing – United Way of Central Indiana – Provide primary project coordination for the Strategic Marketing department. Undergraduate degree or some higher education in marketing/communications with at least 2 year’s experience in marketing project mgmt and coordination is preferred. Demonstrated work experience in program and event coordination is desirable. Must type at least 55 wpm and be knowledgeable of various computer and database software including MSOffice. Experience with content management software is helpful. Full Description at: http://www.uwci.org/index.asp?p=536 Respond by October 5, 2007 with cover letter, resume, salary expectations and three professional references to: United Way of Central Indiana, HR, 3901 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208 or barbara.archat@uwci.org or Fax: 317-921-1329 (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Intern, Family Volunteer Day, United Way of Central Indiana(UWCI) - To research, plan, execute and manage UWCI’s Family Volunteer Day event in each county. The internship is through November 2007 and requires a minimum of 20 hours per week. College junior, senior, graduate student or graduate. Previous event experience desired, but not required. Must be detail-oriented and have effective communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to be a proactive planner and handle multiple tasks while working independently and as part of a team. Dependable transportation and a valid driver’s license are required. Full Description at: http://www.uwci.org/index.asp?p=537 Respond by October 5, 2007 with cover letter, resume, salary expectations and three professional references to: United Way of Central Indiana, HR, 3901 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208 or melita.davis@uwci.org Fax: 317-921-1323 (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Marketing Communications Specialist, Conner Prairie Museum - Are you a creative marketing writer who can write clean and compelling copy in print and Web-based media? Be a key promoter of the museum and an important guardian of its brand through writing, project planning and management and assistance with basic design work (no design experience required). This position will be part of a challenging, fun and creative marketing team. A great opportunity to gain experience in a wide range of marketing areas. Please respond with 2-3 writing samples, cover letter, resume and salary requirements to: employment@connerprairie.org or Conner Prairie; Attn: Judy Crawford, 13400 Allisonville Rd. Fishers, IN 46038 (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Assistant Controller, National FFA Organization - Manages and coordinates reconciling of balance sheet accounts, general ledger review, pension and benefits accounting, cash and investment accounting, not-for-profit accounting, endowment accounting, year-end audits, internal control, policy and procedure review and improvement, state and federal reporting, etc. Bachelors Degree, 5-7 years professional accounting experience with at least 3 years working with an ERP system and 2 years of supervisory experience. Send resume & salary history to: lmotton@ffa.org (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Nurture the Child through Kindermusik, Inc. is currently looking to hire a part time teacher to teach classes in Plainfield and Mooresville, IN. If this person has not been trained through Kindermusik University, NTC Kindermusik will pay for one half of the training. Qualifications needed: Experience in music; ability to sing accapello on pitch; experience with children newborn-7 years very helpful; and a love for children and their families. If interested call Laraine Hudson at 317-892-2487 or email musicmom815@yahoo.com (Featured September 25 and October 2)

User Support Analyst, Children’s Bureau seeks full-time User Support Analyst for the Management of Information Systems Department. Responsibilities include providing consulting/technical support to end users, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of diverse software applications and hardware systems. Efficiency training staff on various applications as well as proficiency working with Microsoft Office Suite and Windows server environment is essential. Associates degree in computer science and 2 years experience assisting end users with computer hardware and software preferred. Excellent communication, organizational and time management skills are a must. Submit cover letter and resume to: Children’s Bureau, Inc. Attn: Human Resources, 615 N. Alabama St., Ste. 426, Indpls. IN 46204. Fax: (317) 264-2712; E-mail: cbihr@childrensbureau.org. (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Full-time Case Manager, IHN ( Interfaith Hospitality Network) , a not-for profit agency serving homeless families. Responsibilities: Conduct in-take process including drug screenings and background checks; Provide case management for homeless families w/children; Ensure client program compliance and program outcomes; On call responsibilities – carry cell phone; Assist w/day center operations, phones, security, in-kind donations; Coordinate overnight emergency housing services w/area congregations; Travel to area congregations as needed for training and oversight of program services. Requires BSW, plus experience in social services agency. Experience with homeless population preferred. Word, Excel, E-mail, and data entry. Send resume, salary requirements and 3 professional references to: executivedirector@indyihn.org (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Part-Time Therapist, Reach For Youth, Inc. - Part-time clinician experienced at working with sexually maladaptive youth. Responsibilities will include a co-facilitating a weekly evening group for adolescent males as well as additional hours for comprehensive psycho-sexual evaluations for referred youth. Salary to be commensurate with experience. Licensure preferred but not required. Respond to Reach For Youth, Inc. Re: ASO Therapist 3505 N. Washington Blvd. Indianapolis, IN 46205. Fax to 317-920-5911, or sbowlen@reachforyouth.org. EOE. (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Marketing/Communications Manager, American Diabetes Association, Indiana Area – team player needed to organize and manage marketing and communications for state affiliate, including developing strategic marketing plans for special events and programs, media relations and PR efforts. Work with volunteer committees. Includes special event mgmt. Requires bachelor’s degree and 3-5 years progressive experience, understanding of strategic marketing, demonstrated experience with PR writing, special event campaigns and preparing and giving presentations. Knowledge and experience with local media helpful. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, excellent writing skills and ability to multi-task. Respond to: fax: 317-594-0748; email: cdine@diabetes.org; or mail: American Diabetes Association, 6415 Castleway West Drive, Suite 114, Indianapolis, IN 46250 (Featured September 25 and October 2)

Development Manager, Goodwill Industries Foundation - Exciting opportunity to be part of a team creating new directions for Goodwill Industries Foundation in its fundraising efforts. Ideal position if you can organize, plan, and have strong writing skills. Create and implement the annual integrated campaign, from prospect identification through acknowledgement. Annual fund experience required; capital campaign experience preferred. Bachelor’s degree with at least three years of fundraising experience. Excellent written, oral and analytical skills. Knowledge of fundraising and databases, Raiser’s Edge preferred. Competitive salary/benefit package, good working environment. Respond with resume and salary requirements to: Robin Kares @ rkares@goodwill-indy.org. (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

President/CEO, Janus Developmental Services, Inc. - a non-profit agency in Noblesville, Indiana that serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Seeking new President/CEO to lead the agency in its stated mission and vision for the future as well as directing and managing the routine business of the agency. For further information including primary responsibilities and minimum requirements of this position, please refer to our website: www.janus-inc.org Respond with resume and salary requirements to: Dr. Meredith L. Carter, Chair of the Board of Directors, Janus Developmental Services, 1555 Westfield Rd., Noblesville, IN 46062. (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Executive Director, The Writers’ Center of Indiana (WCI) - the state’s only comprehensive literary arts organization, seeks an Executive Director to be responsible for overall management, organizational and fund development of the WCI. The ideal candidate should have experience in small nonprofit administration and fundraising, as well as a passion for the literary arts. Send resume and salary requirements to mail@indianawriters.org. (Featured September 25 and Oct 2)

Team Leader II - Member Services / Baxter YMCA - provides quality member service to members, participants & volunteers and supervision/direction to the courtesy desk and member services personnel. Process memberships/program registrations, assist with staff training/evaluation, and troubleshooting/answering questions. High school diploma, or its equivalent, and computer proficiency using standard word processing. Min. 1 year customer service and supervision experience preferred. Respond by Sept 26 with cover letter, resume, and 3-5 professional references to: YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, 615 North Alabama Street, Suite 200, Indpls, IN 46204, or e-mail with job title to jobs@indymca.org. (Featured September 25)

Associate Vice President of Community Development & Branch Executive Director / Urban Mission YMCA - provide primary staff leadership to achieve the YMCA mission in community development in the urban neighborhood communities and YMCA service area. Requires a BA/BS degree in a related field, recognition as a YMCA Senior Director or equivalent, successful professional and admin experience with the YMCA or similar organization, and an understanding of the philosophy and nature of the YMCA. Strong human relations and organization skills are required, as is sound judgment. 5-7 years exp developing and managing community-based outreach programs is required. Experience in supervision and training. Respond by October 1, 2007. To apply, send cover letter and resume and 3-5 professional references to: YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, 615 North Alabama Street, Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or e-mail with job title to jobs@indymca.org. (Featured September 25)

Aquatics Director / Baxter YMCA - Seeking team-oriented and motivated professional to provide leadership to branch aquatic initiatives and direct supervision of aquatic programs at the Baxter Branch YMCA, located on the south side of Indianapolis. Indoor/outdoor pool areas and two off-site locations (in the summer). BS degree in Exercise Physiology/Science, Physical Education, Recreation or related w/an Aquatic/Fitness emphasis preferred and minimum of 2-3 years exp in YMCA or aquatic programming/mgmt. Admin skills and abilities in personnel mgmt, program planning, income production, expense control, training, public relations and interpretation, record-keeping and facility utilization, equipment maintenance and care are required. Reply by October 1, 2007 with cover letter, resume and 3-5 professional references to: YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, 615 North Alabama Street, Suite 200, Indpls, IN 46204, or e-mail with job title to jobs@indymca.org. (Featured September 25)

Introducing Matthew Fox

I've been reading Matthew Fox's Wrestling with the Prophets. All I can say is "oh, my gosh". His big, big category is what he labels Creation Spirituality. It resonates deeply with what I've been reflecting on these past three or four years. I rushed out and bought five more of his books just to have them stock piled for the winter.

Here's a paragraph about work and creativity that stood out to me: "There is no question that when the human species does not have work, it begins to hate itself. Work is the way in which we give our blessing back to the community, the way in which we express our creativity.

The fact is that there are over 850 million unemployed adults in the world today. The young all over the world are being raised without the promise of work, and this is a primary reason why the young are in such deep despair.

Look around the universe: every other creature has work, every action interlinking with the next. It is only we humans who are out of work. We have invented unemployment, especially in the last few hundred years.

We are still defining work in the narrow sense of "industry". The fact is that the world needs a very finite number of factories and military bases, but there is infinite work to be done on the inner house of the human being. That is the basic source of employment and good work for our species."

Become the Sky by Rumi

The Problem

The following was posted on Paulo Coelho's blog. I've read a number of Coelho's novels this summer and am fascinated with his slant on passion and life purpose.

Alessandra Marin tells the following story: the Grand Master and the Guardian shared the administration of a Zen monastery. One day, the Guardian died and a replacement had to be found.

The Grand Master gathered together all the disciples in order to decide who would have the honour of working at his side.

‘I am going to set you a problem,’ said the Grand Master. ‘And the first one to solve that problem will be the new Guardian of the temple.’

Once this briefest of speeches was over, he placed a small stool in the middle of the room. On it stood a priceless porcelain vase containing a red rose.

‘There is the problem,’ said the Grand Master.

The disciples looked in some perplexity at what was there before them: the rare, sophisticated designs on the porcelain vase and the elegance of the flower. What did it represent? What should they do? What did this enigma mean?

After a few moments, one of the disciples got to his feet and looked at the master and at his fellow students. Then he walked resolutely over to the vase and threw it to the ground, shattering it.

‘You are the new Guardian,’ the Grand Master said to the student.

And as soon as the student had returned to his place, he explained.

‘I made myself perfectly clear. I said that there was a problem to be solved. Now it does not matter how beautiful or fascinating a problem might be, it has to be eliminated.

A problem is a problem. It could be a very rare porcelain vase, a delightful love affair that no longer makes any sense, or a course of action that we should abandon, but which we insist on continuing because it brings us comfort.

There is only one way to deal with a problem: attack it head on. At such moments, one cannot feel pity, nor be diverted by the fascination inherent in any conflict.’

Honestly

From Jessica Hagy again. I always have to slow down and read her indexed cards closely but 9-out-of-10 times they always make me smile. Sometimes I actually chuckle when no one's around to see me.

Three Steps for Creating Your Life

I'm a big fan of Paul Ferrini. The "voice" he uses in his books may turn some people off, but I find him one of the most sensitive and insightful authors I've read this year. I'd like to highlight some of his work over the coming weeks. This one grabbed me this morning.

1. First, get clear on what you want. Take as long as you need to get clear. It might take a day, a month, a year. Don't ask for something you're not sure you want.

2. Believe in what you want and move toward it steadily, no matter how implausible it seems or how many obstacles seem to be in your way.

3. When you create what you want, celebrate it. Be grateful for it. Give up your pictures of the way you thought it would be. Embrace it just the way it is. Work with it. Use it. Love it and keep on loving it.

Your job is to be clear about the goal, committed to it, and grateful for its accomplishment in your life. You don't have to know "how" the goal is going to be realized in your life. Just do the best you can. Follow any strategy that feels right to you.

Remember, it is not the strategy that brings you toward your goal, but your desire to reach it and your commitment to accomplish it. When you know "what" you want and "why" you want it, "when, where and how" will be revealed to you.