Think you don’t have the time or the money for professional development? I hear that a lot from all parts of the nonprofit sector. The economy has devastated professional development funding with slashed training budgets and cancelled conferences. There are, however, lots of ways to engage with your professional community without leaving the comfort of your desk!

by Jill Friedman Fixler and Beth Steinhorn

You’ve probably heard – Facebook will be going public and Google has new privacy settings. One of the other social media trends we have been closely following is the rapid evolution of LinkedIn. Through the expansion of groups, postings, and discussions, LinkedIn has become a dynamic resource for improving knowledge, making connections in the field, and discussing current issues and trends. Additionally, it has added new sections to individual profiles that directly feed into volunteer cultivation as well as recognition. Here are a few ideas to explore and consider that will build your network, expose you to professional development, and enhance your volunteer engagement efforts.