The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.
― Dr. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!
I generally read two books at a time, sometimes three. Almost always one on fundraising, another on being a better consultant, trainer, or speaker, and sometimes a novel, just for fun. The fun ones (I’m including business books in that category) are for before bedtime and on weekends, and the fundraising books appear during breaks throughout my workday.
Every few months, I go to the bookstore and select ten to twenty books at a time. The pile sits on my bedside table (or on the floor next to my bed) until I’ve completed them. And then the process starts again.
When I need a book between bookstore shopping sprees or I want something I can’t find at the store, I order on Amazon. I’m also fortunate that my colleagues often send me their books, hot off the press.
Here are five books (in no particular order) I’ve recently read that you should consider adding to your end of summer (or fall) reading list. And please know that I don’t receive a single penny for recommending any of these books — these are simply good, worthwhile reads in my opinion.
The Intentional Board
by Kent Stroman
Kent Stroman is one of the smartest fundraisers I know. He asked me to write a promotional blurb for this, his new book, and here’s what I wrote:
If you work or volunteer for a nonprofit, stop what you’re doing and read this book! Kent’s Intentional Board will help revolutionize your board. After many years in this field, I still always learn something new from Kent. The exception in this book is that I learned MANY things. I highly recommend this book.
LEARN MORE: The Intentional Board: Why Your Board Doesn’t Work, and How to Fix it
Storytelling in the Digital Age
by Julia Campbell
If you want to use digital tools to share great stories and raise awareness and funds for your important cause, this book is for you! Whether you are just getting started with digital storytelling or need a kick in the pants, Julia’s guide will help you get moving in the right direction!
LEARN MORE: Storytelling in the Digital Age
Capital Campaign Strategies that Work
by Andrea Kihlstedt
If you are considering or are in the middle of a capital campaign, this book (just released in its 4th edition!) is a MUST read. Andrea Kihlstedt is THE go-to person for capital campaigns. She has led hundreds of campaigns to fruition and this book gives you an insider’s look at her strategies for success.
LEARN MORE: Capital Campaign Strategies that Work
What Every Board Member Needs to Know, Do and Avoid
by Andy Robinson
Board service can be challenging, even to experienced board members. For a comprehensive, yet simple overview of everything board members need to know, Andy’s book is fantastic. Distribute this quick read to every board member as a handy reference tool for a happy and successful board experience.
LEARN MORE: What Every Board Member Needs to Know, Do and Avoid
5 Strategies to Increase Annual Fund Revenue
by Pamela Witter
If you want to increase annual fund revenue, look no further. In her new book, Pam shares how she increased annual fund results by 30 percent, and breaks down the process into five manageable steps so you can do it too. A must read for novices, and a great read for veterans as well. I highly recommend this book!
LEARN MORE: 5 Strategies to Increase Annual Fund Revenue
Remember, I’m not being paid to endorse any of these books. These are simply good reads full of useful information that I recommend to anyone in the nonprofit field.
Do you have any favorite fundraising books? Share them in the comments below.
I really thank u for the inspiration coaching on how to find individual donors especially the ebooks are really helpful
Thanks Amy! I like your taste in books….