Government
Federal and state governments are split into three branches: legislative, executive, and judiciary. Local administration is usually comprised of city, town, and county government entities. The different government sectors showcase professional roles in education, science, social and human services, defense, politics, administration, legal, human resources, and health-related fields, among others.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
An NGO is any nonprofit voluntary citizens’ group organized on a local, national, or international level. Task-oriented and driven by people with a common interest, NGOs perform a variety of services and humanitarian functions, bring citizens’ concerns to governments, monitor policies, and encourage political participation at the community level. NGOs provide analysis and expertise, serve as early warning mechanisms, and help monitor and implement international agreements. Some are organized around specific issues, such as human rights, the environment, or health. Their relationship with offices and agencies of the United Nations differs depending on their goals, venues, and mandates.
Advocacy
Advocacy is the organized pursuit of influencing public policy and resource allocation. Advocacy is organized actions to highlight critical issues that have been ignored, influence public attitudes, and enact and implement laws and public policies. Human rights form an overreaching framework for these visions. Advocacy organizations draw their strength from members, constituents, and members of affected groups.
Lobbying
Lobbying is an attempt to influence the opinion of legislators, legislative staff, and government administrators involved in drafting legislative proposals. Many different types of organized groups lobby, including the private sector, corporations, fellow government officials, and advocacy groups.
Human and Social Services
Human and Social Services agencies focus on improving conditions for children and families, education, mental health, and other forms of health care. Positions are available in government, nonprofit, and private agencies. The three major employment roles include providing direct service, performing administrative work, and working in the community.
