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How Generation Z is changing the nonprofit workforce
Generation Z (also known as Gen Z or Zoomers) is a fascinating generation aging from 13 to 28. As the newest generation to enter the workforce, they are the first generation who have never lived without the internet. Zoomers are fascinating - confident but anxious, passionate for a cause but often mistaken to be self-centered, quick processors but slow to act. Gen Z is driven when passionate about a cause. Coupled with their unique, fresh viewpoints, tech skills, and social media knowledge, Zoomers could be a huge asset to the nonprofit sector facing a labor shortage.
The nonprofit sector needs to be strengthened, and Gen Z has the potential to do so by enhancing organizational culture, bolstering the workforce, and continuing a strong vision for the future. Nonprofits can intentionally adopt practices that work alongside the incoming generation to create a better sector and galvanize Gen Z. Zoomers bring their technology skills, quick processing, and energy. The nonprofit sector can provide training, education, structure, and mentorship to help Gen Z create lasting careers. To better equip nonprofits and come alongside the newest working generation, there are a variety of ways to improve each organization.
Intergenerational communication
Sharing a work life with people from different generations is a norm, but sharpening each other is key. Avoid stereotypical assumptions on all sides - communication is the first step. Remain open to learning from each interaction, to listen and understand both sides. Gen Z can make quick decisions when they are confident they have all the information, so pair them with an experienced worker, as it allows them to understand the background before offering a curated solution.
Evaluate the culture
Gen Z looks at the work culture of nonprofits today and finds it wanting. Address the culture that exists in many nonprofits - burnout, stress, overwork, and being underpaid. Try and look for the middle ground – Gen Z isn’t always right, and neither is the current culture in the nonprofit sector. What trends could help organizational health or employee satisfaction? How can an organization adjust for less stress and burnout?
Mentors + opportunity
Suppose the sector were to empower and educate Gen Z employees now as they learn and align with the company values. While Gen Z is interested in management, they are twice as likely as millennials to lack the confidence to lead. Creating and encouraging mentors can help Zoomers develop their soft skills. Starting an internship program, paid or unpaid, could be a great way to recruit Gen Z candidates and see how they develop personally and professionally. Try some of these solutions:
- Review hiring standards - is the organization holding on to years of experience?
- Cross-train employees to allow for different roles and see what develops.
- Encourage senior employees to work alongside Gen Z recruits - Zoomers need someone trusted to ask questions and build their confidence to take risks.
- Always encourage professional development and look for key leadership traits.
Educate and provide framework
Zoomers need structure and guidance as they start their careers. Many are unfamiliar with concepts like time tracking and time theft, paid time off, taxes, and working within a team. There is freedom in structure for Zoomers. Set high expectations and structure early and often. Assign a supervisor to onboard effectively and communicate parameters regarding benefits, compensation, company policies, and time off.
By combining the skills and values of Gen Z with the passion, mentorship, and education from nonprofit leaders, we can create a strong nonprofit sector. Leaders can pour into healthy employees who are able to build long-term careers and carry out the organization’s vision. Raising the organizational health of the nonprofit sector allows organizations to retain skilled employees longer and reduce vacancies. The nonprofit sector will thrive when using Gen Z to fill the gaps, strengthen the workforce, and develop future leaders.
Jenny Empson is a 2025 graduate of the Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management program at Arizona State University. She is the Executive Director of Tower Accounting, a remote nonprofit firm that helps Christian nonprofits simplify their financial systems and reporting. In her free time, Jenny enjoys swimming, murder mysteries, and spending time with her nieces and nephews.
Image created using Canva Generative AI
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