Mark Forker was 49 years old and had just been downsized after 27-years with the same company. He should have been shocked, angry, or at least a little depressed. Instead, he felt an odd sense of calm. It was as if someone had finally given him permission to do whatever he wanted - and what he wanted was to do something with purpose and meaning.
Career risk also known as corporate downsizing, economic slowdowns, market changes, and outsourcing is a fact of life. But, can you mitigate career risk? Community service is quickly becoming one of the most valuable character-building and career-building activities made by professionals. As they develop new talents, interests and contacts while serving their community, they also broaden their skill set and career options.
Mark shares how community service helped prepare him for an unexpected career change, and why you should reach out to the community in a way that is meaningful to you.
Mark Forker is Executive Director of Willamette West Habitat for Humanity, Oregon
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