Listed are books read by our staff. In the description are reasons why our colleagues find value in these books. Clicking on the book image takes you to a link where you can order the book. If there is additional support or materials they are in the caption under the image. HAPPY READING!
Fundraising Is: Everything Done Before Asking For Money
By Patrick Belcher
Obviously, the top of our list is the book put out by our founder. An insightful book for fundraisers of any level on how to develop a solid strategy for yourself and your organization. An asset to any library 😉
Post-Pandemic Nonprofit
by Jeremy Reis
This is a recent read. It is supposed to be about how charitable organizations should function after the COVID-19 pandemic, however I find it ask great questions for any organization planning a future strategy. If you are looking at creating or update a strategic plan, read this book first.
SWITCH: How To Change Things When Change Is Hard
by Chip & Dan Heath
A great book for any organization. Especially of you are discussing a significant paradigm shift or “righting” the course of the ship. Start with the “BRIGHTSPOTS.” This book will show you how.
Robots Make Bad Fundraisers
by Steven Shattuck
Donor managements systems are a powerful tool for non-profits. They are a tool to help you fundraise, they are not the fundraisers. If anyone knows this, it is Steven. He share his wealth of experiences on how to make the most out of these tools alongside the most powerful tool your organization has: YOU!
Lincoln on Leadership
By: Donald T. Phillips
What greater example of Leadership is there than Lincoln. He was a leader during a very tumultuous time for America. His wisdom can be applied to any leader or organization.
A favorite story are the letters they found in his desk that he wrote to his subordinates yet never sent.
Lessons From The Mouse
by Dennis Snow
A great reference for any organization. If anything you will value the importance (and challenge it can be) of maintaining the proper on-stage appearance and behavior, and keeping backstage backstage.
Nonprofit Board Service for the Genius
By Susan Schaefer and Bob Wittig
An invaluable reference manual for boards. Often given by our principal when he is hired by boards to work with nonprofits. Practical and applicable advice. Templates for reviews, board agreements and much much more.
May I Cultivate You
by Phillip Perdue, CFRE
A humorous look at careers in fundraising. Consultants are not smarter, we are just smart enough to work with great people like you, Mr. Perdue (God rest your soul). Thank you Phillip for allowing us to laugh at ourselves.
To Sell is Human
by Dan Pink
A challenging look at what we all do everyday. In some way we are trying to sell someone daily on an idea or an item. Often, because we believe it is in their best interest. This helps us all face the truth: that to sell is human
Missionizing Your Special Events…
by Terry Axelrod
An important addition to any development office library. Terry Axelrod has taught us the value of making sure that attendees know what they are supporting. More importantly how to turn event attendees into lifetime donors.
FISH!
by Stephen Lundin adn John Christensen
Rather building or rebuilding your organization culture, the four (4) principles will help you get there in an energizing, effective and fulfilling way.
A quick read with a great story of throwing fish at the Pike’s Place Fish Market that will stick with you.
Rainmaking: The Fundraiser’s Guide To Landing Big Gifts
By Roy Jones, CFRE and Andrew Olsen, CFRE
“Philanthropic Matchmaking” is one of the best ways to describe a fundraiser’s job. The wisdom and practical application continue throughout this book. Actionable ways you can solicit and secure major gifts.
The Culture Solution
By: Matthew Kelly
This is where the reference to reading 5 pages everyday comes from. A great book for a discussion. Perhaps have your leadership team read and discuss what you can implement.