Reading books about philanthropy can be a great way to gain motivation and insight for those looking for more effective ways to contribute to charity and fundraising. From understanding economic downturns to discovering new sources of inspiration, these books can help provide the guidance and support needed to stay the course. Here are the top ten books about charity, fundraising, and giving back that could be added to your library.
The Billionaire Who Wasn’t by Conor O’Clery
If you’re looking for a role model in charity, Conor O’Clery’s book, The Billionaire Who Wasn’t, may be perfect for you. It tells the story of Chuck Feeney, who Forbes had once listed as the 23rd wealthiest individual in the world. What’s interesting is that Feeney secretly transferred all his wealth to his Atlantic Philanthropies over time. O’Clery’s book also describes Feeney’s humble blue-collar beginnings and how they helped him survive the Great Depression and fuel his passion for finding better ways to give back privately.
HumanKind by Brad Aronson
Influenced by his wife’s experience with leukemia, Brad Aronson wrote HumanKind, an astounding book about charity. After seeing how much kindness was given to his family and friends, Aronson set out to find and share the most inspiring stories of giving. Through these examples, he encourages readers to find better ways to give back in their everyday lives. Additionally, the book includes a helpful resource section, and all proceeds go to the Big Brother, Big Sister foundation.
Personalized Philanthropy by Steven L. Meyers
In his book Personalized Philanthropy, Steven L. Meyers encourages readers to explore their personal motivations for giving back and provides insight on how to create a more personalized approach to philanthropy. Meyers highlights the importance of understanding the donor’s needs and intentions and provides guided questions to help readers determine why they want to give back. Fundraisers and donors alike will find this book to be quite enlightening.
Generation Impact by Sharna Goldseker and Michael Moody
Sharna Goldseker and Michael Moody explore the generational impact of Gen Xers and Millennials in their book, Generation Impact. They explain how this combination of generations will soon become the most philanthropic yet and offer advice on how to involve them in fundraising endeavors. Goldseker and Moody also reveal how these generations are giving back in unique ways.
Getting to Giving by Howard L. Stevenson and Shirley M. Spence
In their book, Getting to Giving, Howard L. Stevenson and Shirley M. Spence provide readers with practical techniques for giving back through entrepreneurial strategies. With his extensive experience as a fundraiser, donor, and entrepreneur, Stevenson outlines how these strategies can help overcome many of the challenges associated with charity. Additionally, the authors’ powerful message motivates readers to make a difference in the world.
The Giving Way to Happiness by Jenny Santi
If you’re seeking inspiration, Jenny Santi’s book, The Giving Way to Happiness, is a great place to start. It includes powerful stories from the likes of Nobel Peace Prize Winner Mohammad Yunus and actress Goldie Hawn, illustrating how giving back can bring joy and purpose to life. The book also provides research and statistics to demonstrate the strength of giving back in a meaningful way.
Diversity and Philanthropy by Lilya Wagner
In her book, Diversity and Philanthropy, Lilya Wagner argues that individualized approaches to giving back can be more effective than the traditional planned giving method. Drawing on her 25 years of experience in charity work and supported by data, Wagner makes a compelling case for why considering various factors when donating is important. Her book demonstrates that a one-size-fits-all approach to giving is not necessarily the best way to ensure success.
Iceberg Philanthropy by Fraser Green
Fraser Green’s book “Iceberg Philanthropy” encourages fundraisers to take a planned giving approach to fundraising in order to motivate donors to give more. The book includes a specific gift strategy as well as direct marketing techniques to ensure maximum engagement. By looking past the surface and uncovering the potential beneath, fundraisers can make a bigger impact in their charitable efforts. While primarily aimed at fundraisers, this book provides valuable insights to anyone interested in charitable giving.
Reinventing Philanthropy by Eric Friedman
If you’re searching for a book that can help you make informed decisions about charity, Eric Friedman’s Reinventing Philanthropy is the perfect choice. Friedman acknowledges the difficulty of choosing a charity while still maintaining healthy boundaries and offers a critical analysis of moral and practical dilemmas often faced. This non-nonsense look at giving back can be beneficial to those looking to make more meaningful contributions to society.
Doing Good Better by William MacAskill
In William MacAskill’s book Doing Good Better, he argues that emotions and gut instincts are often what drive people to choose where to donate their time and resources. However, MacAskill encourages a more effective approach to altruism, which involves asking specific questions, using evidence, identifying biases, and taking a logical approach. By doing this, people can make more productive and satisfying decisions when it comes to giving back.