Why I’m Saying YES to a New Opportunity at 65
In March I look forward to 65 years on this planet. I know I have less years ahead than behind. I am good with the life I have led.
The question is, what do I want the next one to five years to look like?
We are in a time of great change in the United States – and not the good kind. With more than 40 years of nonprofit, fundraising experience, maybe I could be useful.
I reached out to my network about opportunities they may know about. People, climate change, environment, truth/advocacy and animals are my focus.
Let me take a beat. There was a moment of doubt.
Another “leap and a net will appear*” moment.
Would my age/experience be seen as an asset or not?
Perhaps questions you ask yourself?
I know I have skills and have successfully raised millions of dollars. But I am also entering my 65th year. There is a new generation of fundraisers in the field.
The worst that would happen is rejection. I know what that looks like as a fundraiser.
If you don’t ask you don’t get – so I started asking.
Turns out the answer is yes!
There were opportunities and they appreciated my experience.
If you are feeling like I am and
want to put your experience back to work, don’t hesitate!
Back to the job search at almost 65.
My network is strong and broad. I have stayed in touch since I started traveling full time. Some follow my journey with great interest. So, reaching out to talk about a shift back to nonprofit work was easy. People took my calls, emails and texts.
It didn’t take long to learn about potential jobs for someone with my experience.
I also reached out to uber recruiter Derek Wilkinson at Odgers Berndtson US who connected me with his colleague Glen Johnson - these guys are pros. In the end it was their firm with the best opportunity to create a win-win for me and the organization.
I began my role as interim Chief Impact Officer for Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Investments and Partnerships. I am going back to my consulting practice, remote work and making change for good.
We’d love to hear from you about change.
Share your thoughts in the comments or send me a message.
Let’s inspire each other to make the change we want for ourselves.
I will be raising funds to support their work promoting sustainable forest management. The forests are the lungs of our planet. FSC works globally to:
Protect forests from deforestation
Address climate change
Preserve biodiversity
Safeguard endangered forests
Promote fair wages and work environments
Respect community rights
You may see their logo on paper, wood and other wood based or recycled products you buy. This symbol indicates the materials used in production are recyclable and sustainably sourced. It also signals that the product passes the council's high environmental and social standards.
Why Does This Change Matter Personally?
This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to contribute to positive change. This remote, interim role allows me to balance my love for travel and give back. Yes, it means staying stateside for a while and adjusting my travel style. This also means continuing to shape my life by aligning my passion and values.
How This Connects to You?
I’m sharing this story because I want you to see opportunity knocking doesn’t stop after a certain age. Whether it’s reigniting a career, diving into a passion project, or finally taking that dream trip, there’s no expiration date on your ability to pivot and grow.
This isn’t about age—it’s about alignment.
Let’s Have a Conversation
I’d love to hear from you. What excites you? What values guide you? These are the questions that can shape your next chapter Share your story in the comments or send me a message. Let’s inspire each other to make the change we want for ourselves.
Share this post with others you think are in the process of change or looking to make a difference in their lives and others. And if you haven’t subscribed please do.
