Pros
The workplace culture at The Center is a comfortable, familiar one. There is a generous amount of holidays, and some staff are able to work 4 10-hour days if their supervisor allows. In times of crisis, the staff comes together and supports each other, much like a family would. It's also great to be working for the community in the heart of the community. I was able to finish my undergraduate studies while working part time, and returned to full-time status after finishing school.
Cons
Depending on your position, there may not be much potential for growth, professional development, or advancement. Turnover is low at higher levels within the organization, so many folks promote out in order to grow their skills and experience. Supervisors do not have leadership/management training, which would be beneficial when managing multiple staff members with different skill sets, strengths, and personalities. There is a limited amount of transparency when it comes to knowing and learning about The Center's big picture, long-term plans and strategies. I was not privy to what was discussed in C-suite or Directors meetings, but very little of that information was passed down to lower level staff. Having come from a corporate background, it's helpful to know which way the ship is going and why it's going there. Yes, the leadership team is all cisgender women, but as a gay male, I didn't have any issues with the diversity (or lack thereof) of that department. My issue was with how members of the C-suite isolated themselves or made themselves unavailable or difficult to reach when it came to interacting with lower level staff. There is a lot of reluctance to try new things or take risks, especially when it comes to fundraising. There is a high amount of passion and potential in those who get hired on, and then as time passes, something diminishes it.