Educational & Inspirational Reading on Giving & Philanthropy

Leap of Reason by Mario Marino
Leap of Reason, a collaboration between Venture Philanthropy Partners and its longtime strategic partner McKinsey & Company, presents a compelling case that we must rise to meet the difficult challenges of our times with management approaches that complement heart with head, passion with information.

Be The Light by Bill Halamandaris
This book offers a way to dispel the darkness by creating a blueprint for a happy, successful life that improves society and changes the lives of others.

The Cathedral Within by Bill Shore (Founder of Share Our Strength)
Gives example after example of how people transformed their lives by giving something back.

Don’t Just Give It Away: How To Make The Most Of Your Charitable Giving by Renata J. Rafferty
Just about everything you will learn by sitting on SVP Investment working Group Cycle in one location.

The Fundraising Habits of Supremely Successful Boards: A 59-minute Guide to Ensuring Your Organization's Future by Jerold Panas
A large part of an organization’s success depends on its board’s willingness to cultivate certain behaviors.

How to Change the World by David Bornstein
Heart-warming, inspiring stories of International social entrepreneurs who question the status quo, exploit new opportunities and refuse to give up and are building a better world.

Inspired Philanthropy: Your Step by Step Guide to Creating a Giving Plan by Tracy Gary & Melissa Kohner
It is a great workbook as well as informational source book for learning about philanthropy as well as evaluating/determining your own personal & family values related to giving. Also includes some great examples, as well as practical ways to implement them.

Just Enough by Laura Nash & Howard Stevenson
Success is often defined as making money, however it is not about happiness. Learn the tools that create happiness in work and life.

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America by Barbara Ehrenreich
Journey through the world of the working poor as a journalist attempts to make it in minimum wage jobs.

Nonprofit Marketing Best Practices by John Burnett
What does it take to successfully market your nonprofit organization? How can you court donors, get the word out to those who need your services most, and expand your nonprofits' influence? Rich with practicality, Nonprofit Marketing Best Practices shows you all the best practices and solid marketing principles you need to satisfy customer needs, grow your organization by marketing its vision, and sustain the success of your organization.

Pay It Forward by Catherine Ryan Hyde Not to be confused with the movie by the same name (which was a very loose adaptation) it is a brilliant story of a young boys idea, and how it changes the world.

Voices from the Heart: In Celebration of America’s Volunteers by Brian O'Connell
Wonderful people who have changed the world we live in, wonder-filled stories about how and why they do it.

Shameless Exploitation in Pursuit of the Common Good by Paul Newman & A.E. Hotchner
The humorous story of the beginnings of Newman’s Own brands and the now over $175 million they have given to charity. Not sure what I expected, but its fabulously funny, touching, a joy to read - and he is one amazing individual.

Smart & Caring: A Donor’s Guide to Major Gifting by Richard & Linda Livingston
Written for donors by donors addressing issues, actions and rewards of major gifting by exploring the personal, technical and financial sides.

What Should I Do With My Life? by Po Branson This book is filled with examples of people who answered this ultimate question with outstanding results that lead to their true calling.

Philanthrocapitalism: How the Rich Can Save the World by Michael Green
An examination of how today’s leading philanthropists are revolutionizing the field, using new methods to have a vastly greater impact on the world.

Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip and Dan Heath
When change has to occur, how do people manage themselves? If change is required for a group of people, how do you manage the emotions that come with it?