I was asked yesterday what my go-to resources are for information on the Web. If I had to put together my can’t live without list for growing myself professionally, what would be on it? Obviously, my choices are personal ones, based on my forensic specialties (SA, DV, elder abuse) and my other revenue-generating interests (technology, healthcare economics, writing, presenting). Probably not universally appealing stuff. But if pressed (which I was), you can check out my top 10 after the jump:
- IAFN: Sorry, but there simply isn’t another resource for forensic nursing that has everything IAFN has. If you’re not a member, you need to become one. The Journal, online CEs, the Assembly–there isn’t a better place to network and get a handle on practice issues. Seriously, join up if you haven’t done so already.
- VAWNet: “The online resource for advocates working to end domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violence in the lives of women and their children.” You’ll find new research, educational opportunities and best practice reviews. Sign up to receive their e-newsletter and/or their monthly funding alert.
- NSVRC: Everything you need related to sexual assault is here. Full disclosure: I was an advisory board member for 6 years and now I work for them (National SANE Sustainability TA project). Guess what? I became an advisory board member because I was such a fan of their work.
- Fieldstone Alliance: If you’re wonky like me, this is a fantastic site. They provide “consulting, publishing, training, and research and demonstration projects that help nonprofits, funders, networks, and communities achieve greater impact.” If you run a program, their newsletter is for you. An abundance of management tips delivered to your inbox twice a month.
- Free-Range Thinking: Andy Goodman’s e-newsletter has been around for a decade and remains one of the things I look forward to reading most each month. It’s all about communication best-practices and resources. Another great tool for people who run programs or sit on nonprofit boards.
- NCJRS: Your source for all things Fed. This is the online aggregator for the different programs within the Department of Justice. You can get your current stats, research reports, funding info and other information here, plus there’s a biweekly e-newletter available. The site itself is a chaotic nightmare, but the content, once you find it, is quality.
- MINCAVA: This electronic clearinghouse is another resource for all aspects of violence and abuse. It’s one of my most favorite sites to trawl.
- Prevention Institute: I will read anything these guys write on violence prevention. I have a big intellectual crush on their entire staff.
- TED: “Ideas worth spreading” is their tag line and that says it all. It’s been an unending source of inspiration.
- Lifehacker: I have picked up so many great techy tips here. It’s my treat for accomplishing things on my to-do list. I try to use it as motivation to get things finished so I can go surf the site.
So you’ve seen my list–what’s on yours? I guarantee you,we’re interested. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from the readers of this site it’s that people are hungry for new resources.