Good Place to Work - Anonymous employee National Organization on Disability Employee Review

NOD is an organization with a noble mission fueled by a team of passionate leaders and equally committed staff members. There is respect for work life balance and there is opportunity to grow and learn here for those who are interested. The President is conscientious and deeply committed to the mission of the organization. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise, second to none in the industry. She leads with her vision and excellence. She raises everyone to touch new heights. The leadership team listens to the small and mighty team and stands by them. The work culture is positive, supportive, motivating and enthusiastic. We raise the bar and deliver excellence. There is staff appreciation for good work. The team spirit is admirable and binds us together as one.

Being a small non-profit can be challenging. Last year special initiatives were thought of for staff members as we transitioned to remote working. The President of the organization is passionate and devoted to the mandate area and the well-being of the team. However, she pulled the ship through a year that was difficult for even bigger NGOs.

I've consulted for NOD on and off for the past 10 years. I keep coming back for two main reasons: the substance of the work and the people. NOD is relentlessly rigorous and thoughtful as it works to improve the employment landscape for people with disabilities. It does not take a passive, cookie-cutter approach - supporting the work requires schooling yourself up and thinking creatively. The leadership is visionary, among the smartest people I've ever worked with. I have learned and grown tremendously from them through being part of the organization's evolution over the past decade. The standards are incredibly high - be prepared to push yourself beyond what you think you might be capable of but know that you're doing it as part of a hardworking, smart, collegial team who are working in the same way.

I think the "Cons" are more about organizational fit than anything negative. NOD works best for people who are happy in a dynamic organization. People thrive here when they are open to positions evolving to meet organizational needs. It's a small organization that by strategy launches new initiatives, requiring staff to embrace change. For people who like rigid job descriptions and a traditional career ladder, NOD is likely not the best place. For people who embrace the mission and want to stretch themselves, NOD can be an amazing place to work. The size does mean that there are limited growth opportunities for junior staff, but a few years at NOD is as good as grad school and will bear you well in your career.