Foundation Center Staff Picks

This fascinating book recounts a Canadian journalist's discoveries and lessons learned while volunteering for one month at each of 12 different charities. Scanlan takes a critical look at the diverse approaches to addressing human need and argues passionately for greater connection and commitment from us all -- individuals, governments and philanthropists.

"Make Your Tweets Retweetable," "Livestream your events," and "Get creative with avatars" are just a few of the ideas in this nicely illustrated, easy-to-use book. There are plenty of suggestions for experienced social media users, but the author takes nothing for granted if you're just starting out. Most of the featured resources are free and many real-life examples of how nonprofits are using the tactics are provided.

The author provides a comprehensive overview of sustainability, including greening, energy, transportation, housing, climate and economic development. Included is an appendix on Pando, an online project led by the author, designed to link local governments and researchers working to accelerate the development of sustainable communities.

The author shares the most effective techniques and lessons learned from her vast experience as a philanthropist, academic, volunteer and social innovator. A practical, entertaining, and inspirational call to action, this book is an indispensable tool for anyone who is passionate about creating change and making the world a better place.

Banding Together describes the lessons to be learned from the Lance Armstrong Foundation's 2004 LIVESTRONG wristband campaign, which has raised over $100 million to help cancer survivors. While Armbruster's organization had high-profile help from Armstrong and the Nike corporation, the author makes a convincing argument that her techniques, which include collaborative decision-making, thoughtful planning and seizing opportunities, can be used effectively in raising money and visibility for any nonprofit organization.

Stallings offers a comprehensive guide to strategic volunteer engagement with an emphasis on executive involvement. The book is divided into sections that cover topics such as planning and budgeting for volunteers, as well as staff training and program evaluation. The author also provides many practical tools, including worksheets and sample documents, to help organizations get the most out of their volunteer programs.

The authors examine the lifecycle of a nonprofit, taking the reader through building infrastructure (adolescence) and impact expansion (maturity), to decline and rebirth or closing. Brothers and Sherman describe the different approaches taken in each stage of development to maximize an organization's full capacity.

The author provides a simple, easy-to understand and incredibly useful road map for organizations committed to becoming more effective and sustainable.

This is an outstanding book on writing more effectively to promote nonprofit organizations. Each of the twenty-five techniques is demonstrated with thoughtful advice, examples and writing exercises.

The authors present compelling case studies of successful alternative currencies that have developed vibrant and sustainable local economies.

The authors provide practical information on greening all aspects of the nonprofit workplace, including instruction on performing a self-audit and planning for a more environmentally sound future.

This book is a valuable guide for anyone charged with giving away money with the intention of making a difference, and is useful for new donors, experienced philanthropists, and nonprofit leaders.

Rosenberg describes the grantseeking process from the funder's viewpoint, providing practical and motivational advice on how the artist can use that knowledge to write successful proposals.

The author offers irresistable, real-life stories about donors and shows that successful fundraising is all about turning a name into a relationship.

This is an indispensable guide for nonprofits, providing new tools to navigate and thrive in a changing economic climate.

The authors define what social entrepreneurs are, how their organizations function, and the challenges they face working with communities to find solutions to unique, local problems. Moreover, they show readers how to get involved.

This expanded and revised edition provides the tools, expertise and confidence required to develop and implement a sophisticated marketing program tailored to an organization's needs and goals.

This book examines all aspects of successful development and includes useable templates and examples that can be applied within any nonprofit organization.

A perfect handbook for nonprofits who want to transform their organizations by embracing the power of social networks.

This handbook is an inspiring resource guide offering hundreds of concrete ideas for making a real difference in your home, community, and the world regardless of the size of your bank account.

A terrific and timely resource for nonprofit leaders, this book illustrates the value of effective collaborations and is filled with great stories, expert guidance, and the practical, time-tested tools needed to tackle any difficulties.

This thoroughly revised and updated edition of the best-selling book is filled with suggestions, guidelines, and down-to-earth advice that will give nonprofits the confidence to ask anyone for any size gift, for any purpose.

Using a holistic approach that involves everyone within an organization, the author provides tools and guidance for nonprofits seeking to transform their communications and marketing efforts.

This timely book provides practical guidance for nonprofits to plan their best strategies to survive the economic downturn and succeed.

This updated edition includes new material that provides helpful tips and insight into tackling myriad issues. It's an invaluable tool to assist and motivate nonprofit board members.

Written by two renowned philanthropists, this book serves as a definitive guide to getting the most return from one's charitable giving. Part "how to" and part memoir, it should inspire anyone who simply wants to make their philanthropic effort as effective and meaningful as possible.

This book provides a fresh look at volunteer managment. Sprinkled with stories of innovative volunteer engagement, best-practice tips, and perspectives from leaders of the voluntary sector, A People Lens will change how you think about engaging people at your organization.

Looking for ways to do more with less in the current recession, nonprofits are stretching their budgets further. Walker presents ways to develop a strategic approach to fundraising in the weak economy, with short-term steps to stem losses, and methods to avoid making campaign mistakes.

CauseWired is a fascinating look into the rapidly evolving world of the Internet, social networking, and social change. Watson illustrates how individuals are using social networking tools to impact the critical events of our time.

With engaging stories, tips, and insights from lessons learned, the author, an executive director of a busy crisis center, describes what it takes to lead a nonprofit with competence. Chapters highlight different facets of leadership and relate the skills necessary for nonprofit managers to make a real difference.

Looking for ways to do more with less in the current recession, nonprofits are stretching their budgets further. Walker presents ways to develop a strategic approach to fundraising in the weak economy, with short-term steps to stem losses, and methods to avoid making campaign mistakes.