School to Career - Riverhead Foundation - Office Manager/Administrator


		Fundraising Dinner
		Volunteer Program Schedule
		Donation Box
		Exhibit Sign-up
		Seal Badge
		Volunteer Press Release
		Run for the Ridley

Just like any "for profit" business, a not-for-profit foundation has many administrative concerns that need to be addressed. The office manager/administrator handles this busy job, which includes ordering supplies, coordinating events for fundraising and taking care of the organization's banking activities.

Karen Intorcia is the office manager/administrator for the Riverhead Foundation. Advertising, public relations, litter composition, volunteer program coordination and animal releases are all among the responsibilities that make up Karen's busy schedule. She uses time management skills, computer skills and the ability to handle various tasks, to do this job successfully.

According to Karen, a college background, advertising and computer training plus a strong work ethic are all necessary to excel at this position. She also notes the importance of being flexible, a hard worker and people-oriented. Additionally, a personal interest in animals is also very important. "I was inspired to pursue this career by my love of animals and my desire to work for an organization that does something positive for the environment" explains Karen. "You should pursue a career in something that you truly believe in. You want to be happy in whatever work you choose because you spend many hours at work," adds Karen, who puts in a 40-hour week plus occasional overtime and weekends.

Karen, a single mother of three, provides a marvelous example of what someone can do when they are motivated. She returned to school, majored in Arts & Advertising and graduated with honors. She then targeted places where she wanted to work and was hired by the Riverhead Foundation, which she now calls "a very special place to work".