William Jackson bestows a rich collection that presents the depth of American generosity. Drawing upon an abundant variety of genres--myths, proverbs, poems, letters, short stories, news stories, folktales, sermons, and essays--this interesting and useful collection documents the religious dimensions of American philanthropy. The Wisdom of Generosity not only chronicles the manifestations of philanthropy but also reveals philanthropy's integral connection with American history and how Americans are still striving to fulfill their original promises. This Reader offers classic yet fresh resources for reflecting on the heritage of American giving.

From the author of the #1 bestseller "Three Cups of Tea," the continuing story of this determined humanitarian's efforts to promote peace through education
In this dramatic first-person narrative, Greg Mortenson picks up where "Three Cups of Tea" left off in 2003, recounting his relentless, ongoing efforts to establish schools for girls in Afghanistan; his extensive work in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan after a massive earthquake hit the region in 2005; and the unique ways he has built relationships with Islamic clerics, militia commanders, and tribal leaders even as he was dodging shootouts with feuding Afghan warlords and surviving an eight-day armed abduction by the Taliban. He shares for the first time his broader vision to promote peace through education and literacy, as well as touching on military matters, Islam, and women-all woven together with the many rich personal stories of the people who have been involved in this remarkable two-decade humanitarian effort.
Since the 2006 publication of "Three Cups of Tea," Mortenson has traveled across the U.S. and the world to share his vision with hundreds of thousands of people. He has met with heads of state, top military officials, and leading politicians who all seek his advice and insight. The continued phenomenal success of "Three Cups of Tea" proves that there is an eager and committed audience for Mortenson's work and message.

Sister Kelly has a fascinating story of how a small group of people came together to make sure that no one in their community went hungry. This is the history of Plowshares, the Community dining room for the homeless and the poor. Kelly goes on to share the stories of homeless people and how they came to be homeless. She concludes by telling what Plowshares means to the homeless.

As nonprofit organizations face heightened scrutiny by the general public, donors, regulators, and members of Congress, the Third Edition of the essential book on the basics of fundraising provides new, up-to-date and valuable information that every fundraiser needs to know. With ethics and accountability being the primary theme of the Third Edition, this practical guide will continue to provide an overview of the field and give development staff, managers, and directors a platform from which to operate their fundraising programs. The new edition also provides much needed information on giving trends, computer hardware and software available for fundraisers, cost estimates and workflow timetables, and the importance of the Internet. This primer remains a must-have for anyone new to the fundraising arena.

According to an old saying, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." In 22 brief and insightful essays, Richard B. Gunderman shows us that the key to more rewarding giving can be found by looking beyond mere donations of money. Exploring the ethical core of sharing and examining its importance for both those who receive and those who give, here is a book to deepen our understanding of what it means to share.

In 19th-century Leipzig, Toronto, New York, and Boston, a newly emergent group of industrialists and entrepreneurs entered into competition with older established elite groups for social recognition as well as cultural and political leadership. The competition was played out on the field of philanthropy, with the North American community gathering ideas from Europe about the establishment of cultural and public institutions. For example, to secure financing for their new museum, the founders of the Metropolitan Museum of Art organized its membership and fundraising on the model of German art museums. The process of cultural borrowing and intercultural transfer shaped urban landscapes with the building of new libraries, museums, and social housing projects. An important contribution to the relatively new field of transnational history, this book establishes philanthropy as a prime example of the conversion of economic resources into social and cultural capital.

This book provides a powerful and clear picture of some of the outstanding programs designed and implemented in the United States to provide young adolescents with rich, meaningful, and powerful learning activities with community service. The book is comprised of two parts with 18 essays and an introduction. The essays reflect a range of experience. Part 1, ""Social Issues,"" includes: (1) ""Social Issues in the Middle School Curriculum: Retrospect and Prospect"" (James A. Beane); (2) ""Challenging Barriers: A Unit in Developing an Awareness and Appreciation for Differences in Individuals with Physical and Mental Challenges"" (Pauline S. Chandler); (3) ""Implementing an Interdisciplinary Unit on the Holocaust"" (Regina Townsend; William G. Wraga); (4) ""The Homeless: An Issue-Based Interdisciplinary Unit in an Eighth-Grade Class"" (Belinda Y. Louie; Douglas H. Louie; Margaret Heras); (5) ""Making Plays, Making Meaning, Making Change"" (Kathy Greeley); (6) ""Teleconversing about Community Concerns and Social Issues"" (Judith H. Vesel); (7) ""Using Telecommunications to Nurture the Global Village"" (Dell Salza); (8) ""New Horizons for Civic Education: A Multidisciplinary Social Issues Approach for Middle Schools"" (Ronald A. Banaszak; H. Michael Hartoonian; James S. Leming); and (9) ""Future Problem Solving: Preparing Middle School Students to Solve Community Problems"" (Richard L. Kurtzberg; Kristin Faughnan). Part 2, ""Service,"" contains: (1) ""Alienation or Engagement? Service Learning May Be an Answer"" (Joan Schine; Alice Halsted); (2) ""Service Learning: A Catalyst for Social Action and School Change at the Middle Level"" (Wokie Weah; Madeleine Wegner); (3) ""The Community as Classroom: Service Learning at the Lewis Armstrong Middle School"" (Ivy Diton; Mary Ellen Levin); (4) ""Incorporating Service Learning into the School Day"" (Julie Ayers; Kathleen Kennedy Townsend); (5) ""Science-Technology-Society: An Approach to Attaining Student Involvement in Community Action Projects"" (Curt Jeffryes; Robert E. Yager; Janice Conover); (6) ""Calling Students to Action: How Wayland Middle School Puts Theory into Practice"" (Stephen Feinberg; Richard Schaye; David Summergrad); (7) ""Our Forest, Their Forest: A Program That Stimulates Long-Term Learning and Community Action"" (Patricia McFarlane Soto; John H. Parker; George E. O'Brien); (8) ""Every Step Counts: Service and Social Responsibility"" (Larry Dieringer; Esther Weisman Kattef); and (9) ""The Letter that Never Arrived: The Evolution of a Social Concerns Program in a Middle School"" (Robyn L. Morgan; Robert W. Moderhak). (EH)

In the contemporary United States, third parties are being relied upon to deliver social services that were once chiefly the responsibility of government. Among the new philanthropic associations that have arisen in this environment are voluntary groups known as giving circles. Their purpose is to bring people together to pool resources and then collectively decide how to distribute them. Giving circles have been seen as the most democratic of philanthropic mechanisms, working to meet social needs and solve community problems, while enhancing the civic education and participation of their members. Angela M. Eikenberry examines this new phenomenon and considers what role voluntary associations and philanthropy can or should play in a democratic society.

How can today s nonprofits demonstrate effective use of funds? How can they motivate employees and volunteers and combat burnout and high turnover? How can they ensure that they are performing in accordance with their mission and purpose? Author Stephen J. Gill answers these questions and more in Developing a Learning Culture in Nonprofit Organizations. Filled with practical tips and tools, the book shows students and managers of human services, arts, education, civic, and environmental agencies how to implement a learning culture with individuals, teams, the organization as a whole, and the larger community. Key Features Draws on the author s more than 25 years of consulting experience Demonstrates how to create a culture of intentional learning that uses reflection and feedback, focuses on successes and failures, and builds a strong organization that motivates employees and volunteers Offers specific, hands-on tools for each level of the organization, from the individual and team to the whole organization and the community Discusses not only the need for a learning culture but also the barriers that may stand in the way Takes a step-by-step approach that facilitates managers and students' understanding and learning Incorporates practical tools that can be used in nonprofit management and in actual field instruction

Developing a Learning Culture in Nonprofit Organizations is appropriate for courses in Social Work Evaluation, Public and Nonprofit Management, and Evaluation."

In Being the Difference: True Stories of Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things to Change the World, author Darius Graham celebrates more than a dozen men and women that have gone beyond making a difference-rather, they are the difference. A number of these individuals suffered hardships and overcame significant adversity to use their triumphs and successes to help others. Some followed a life-long passion, and still others became so frustrated with a problem or issue in their community that they were compelled to action. Despite the different paths they took, each took a dynamic approach to serve their fellow man. On a bold and heartfelt mission, this book exemplifies the idea that nothing is impossible and that acts of generosity can and will change the world.

From his humble beginnings as a Scottish immigrant to his ascension to wealth and power as a 'captain of industry, ' Andrew Carnegie embodied the American 'rags to riches' dream. Alive in the time of the Civil War, Carnegie was the epitome of a self-made man, first working his way up in a telegraph company and then making astute investments in the railroad industry. Through hard work, perseverance, and an earnest desire to develop himself in his education, culture, and personal economy, Carnegie finally made his considerable fortune in steel. What is perhaps most remarkable about this historical figure, however, was his overwhelmingly generous practice of philanthropy in his later life. In his essay "The Gospel of Wealth," Carnegie relates his ideas on the distribution of the rich's wealth to the poor in a responsible capitalistic society. In setting an example of his own beliefs, Carnegie gave away millions of dollars for the public good, demonstrating his own willingness to promote human welfare and the betterment of man.

September 2005, in the after-math of Hurricane Katrina, we had no idea that we were about to embark on an unexpected journey. As the days, weeks and months progressed, the Thornton family, from New Orleans, told us their extraordinary story in bits and pieces. Our journey over the following months has changed our lives forever. We are telling our story through our own eyes, what we saw, heard and witnessed. It will make you laugh and cry; it will make you angry and warm your heart. Come on this journey with us and experience the joys and the heartaches, as we learned how to help others in need. Meet all the 'Angels' who helped us out along the way by giving this family 'pieces for their quilts'. A portion of the proceeds of this book will be donated to the 'Thornton Housing Fund'. You can read more about the Thornton's and follow their progress at www.eagleswingspublications.com

"Equal parts inspiration, perspiration, and information -- a book that is sure to take the Vibrant Communities story to new heights as it begins its next exciting phase."

In Canada, "poverty reduction" is no longer a "wouldn't it be nice" dream discussed after yet another failure to make a dent in an age-old problem. It's a living, breathing, exhilarating reality.

Why?

Because all across the country people are approaching poverty in a positive, creative, and energetic way. They are doing so courtesy of a new social phenomenon called Vibrant Communities: a network of people who are getting people together - citizens (no matter what their income), community developers, business people, and representatives from all levels of government -- to determine needs, community assets, and strategies. They're putting plans into action with astonishing results.

This book tells their story. And perhaps yours, too.

Paul Born is the author of the recently published "Community Conversations: Mobilizing the Ideas, Skills, and Passion of Community Organizations, Governments, Businesses, and People." He is internationally recognized for his innovative approaches to community building. He is the President and Co-founder of Tamarack - An Institute for Community Engagement and the founding chair of the Canadian Community Economic Development Network, Vibrant Communities Canada, and Opportunities 2000.

Growing Civil Society investigates the role of voluntary action and nonprofit organization in contemporary America. Key to the book is the concept of "third space," which provides an important tool for the construction of civil society. The third space is not independent from society's major institutions, but exists in dynamic interdependence with them, linking individuals in their home bases of family and community to the larger governmental and economic structures within which all citizens, workers, and consumers learn to find their way in modern society.

This is the biography of a ruling-class woman who became a major American philanthropist. The wife of robber-baron Russell Sage (partner of Jay Gould) and in her husband's shadow for 37 years, Olivia Sage took on the mantle of active, reforming womanhood in New York voluntary associations. When Russell Sage died in 1906, he left her a vast fortune. Already in her 70s, she took the money and put it to her own uses. An advocate for the rights of women and the responsibilities of wealth, for moral reform and material benefit, Sage used the money to fund a wide spectrum of progressive reforms that had a lasting impact on American life, including her most significant philanthropy, the Russell Sage Foundation.

The newest edition of this classic book shows how anyone can align and integrate values, passions, and dreams for their communities and families into their giving plans. Inspired Philanthropy explains how to make a difference by creating giving and legacy plans, tells what questions to ask nonprofits, and spells out how to partner with advisors and nonprofit leaders for inspired outcomes. In addition to overall updates to statistics, the new edition includes a discussion of the implications of the Buffett gift to the Gates Foundation; new legacy planning tools; expanded resources on youth, giving circles, and communities of color; and key questions for advisors and donors. Additional resources are available on the enclosed CD-ROM.

Praise for "Inspired Philanthropy"

"This book is a must-use for all of us who encourage people to be thoughtful in their giving and to be as generous as possible. Buy this book for your board members and your other donors. And use it yourself!"
--Kim Klein, author, "Fundraising for Social Change"

"Inspired Philanthropy has all the fuel your engine of generosity will need to assure you more purposeful and satisfying personal giving. Tracy Gary speaks to your soul, your accountant, and your lawyer. She conducts self-discovery systematically but tenderly."
--Dr. Claire Gaudiani, clinical professor, The Heyman Center on Philanthropy and Fundraising, New York University, and author, "The Greater Good"

"There is no better guide than Tracy Gary for transforming one's inner donor activist into an empowered donor leader."
--Jessica Chao, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors & Cultures of Giving Fund

"This book will make sure you continue tobreathe financially free for yourself and others for generations to come."
--Suze Orman, author, "The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom and The Road to Wealth"

"Inspired Philanthropy lets us in on the secret that giving money for social change is the most rewarding form of investment."
--Gloria Steinem, author, activist, and board of Women's Media Center

"Buy this book, but be sure to sit down with your family and community and use it to guide your check writing and volunteering."
--Ben Cohen, president and founder, Business Leaders for Sensible Priorities, and former chairman, Ben & Jerry's

In July 2004, the author volunteered to work at a summer camp for Romanian orphans. "These children epitomized the word SURVIVOR. They were loving, energetic, and full of life despite the trauma of their existence. I found them needy, emotionally draining, and champions at overcoming their sorrow and loss. Etched in my heart are the stories of their lives." Journey of the Heart recounts the author's experience and the deeply moving stories of these children. All proceeds from this book will be donated to Children on the Edge.

According to an old saying, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." In 21 brief and insightful essays, Richard B. Gunderman shows us that the key to more rewarding giving can be found by looking beyond mere donations of money. With a more inclusive view of giving that considers the needs and opportunities of donors as well as recipients, he argues that the amount of money changing hands is an inadequate measure of benevolence, and that some of the grandest forms of generosity involve no money at all. Exploring the ethical core of sharing, examining its importance for both those who receive and those who give, here is a book to enrich our lives and deepen our understanding of what it means to share wealth.

This anthology explores the enterprise of philanthropy assumptions, aspirations, and achievements. It brings together key texts that can provide guidance to current and prospective donors, trustees and professional staff of foundations, and leaders of nonprofit organizations. Organized thematically, these texts seek to illuminate fundamental questions about the idea and practice of philanthropy, to promote more thoughtful discussion about practical issues facing the philanthropic sector, and to point a way toward a philanthropic practice that is more responsible, more effective, and more civic-spirited.

Amy A. Kass has selected readings from sources that range from the classics to the contemporary, from foundational statements on philanthropy to reflections on key issues of novelists and poets. Each illuminates some aspect of philanthropy. The book is arranged according to themes: goals and intentions; gifts, donors, and recipients; grants, grantors, grantees; bequests and legacies; effectiveness; accountability; and leadership."

You want to make a difference in the world, but don't know where to begin. Now you can. Here is just the guide to lots of exciting ways that are more personal and fun than merely writing a check. For every day of the year, "365 Ways to Change the World" is packed with information and ideas that don't take a lot of special skills to put into action, but will achieve something positive:
Observe a "Buy Nothing Day" Plant a "peace pole" Sew a panel for an AIDS memorial quilt Collect rainwater to water your plants
The suggestions cover twelve important areas in which you can influence change, including in your local community, as a consumer, making a cultural contribution, and addressing problems such as the environment, health, and human rights. You can go through the book day by day or use the index to flip to the issues that concern you most; to help you take action, a complementary website links straight to many of the sources listed in the book. Great to give as well as to keep, this is an inspiring, practical resource for making the world a better place -- one day at a time.

In the history of New Orleans, there are those who make policy and those who are forced to live by policy. To help balance the scales, " Voice of the Poor: Citizen Participation Informing Public Policy for Rebuilding New Orleans" focuses on low-income residents, mostly African Americans, whose views are needed to help rebuild the shattered city in a way that will make it more sustainable, inclusive, and economically competitive than it was before Hurricane Katrina.

Through citizen participation, everyone's voice can be heard. As a result, New Orleans will become more equitable. "Voice of the Poor" offers a process for arriving at an acceptable solution for those who are interested in individual and community self-determination. Input of both current "and" displaced residents is vitally important in the rebuilding of the city. However, participation has generally been limited to those who have had the resources to return to New Orleans and continue their lives there. A variety of outlets for the participation of those who have returned have been available, and their contributions are integral in developing the plan to rebuild New Orleans.

Ironically, low-income citizens-those most impacted by the storm-have largely been excluded from this discussion. "Voice of the Poor" seeks to bridge this gap.

There is a mistaken assumption in many social sciences that knowledge will automatically translate into action. Based on this assumption, textbooks for basic oral communication, a required course in many college campuses, attempt to ameliorate students' communicational behaviors by teaching them knowledge about communication: theories, concepts, and terms. Not only failing their attempt, these textbooks also estrange students by belaboring what is common sense in students' perception. However, in reality, numerous social problems are not because of a lack of knowledge, but because of a lack of action or a lack of practice of the knowledge. In an effort to shift attention from knowing communication to doing communication, Cases of Problematic Communication confronts its readers with realistic cases of problematic communication and offers questions to facilitate your reflection and communicational action. Promising to transform the students' learning from one of passive cognition to one of reflective action, this booklet can also serve as a resource for commercial textbooks for oral communication.

The charitable sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the global economy. Nearly half of the more than 85,000 private foundations in the United States have come into being since the year 2000. Just under 5,000 more were established in 2011 alone. This deluge of philanthropy has helped create a world where billionaires wield more power over education policy, global agriculture, and global health than ever before. In No Such Thing as a Free Gift, author and academic Linsey McGoey puts this new golden age of philanthropy under the microscope-paying particular attention to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. As large charitable organizations replace governments as the providers of social welfare, their largesse becomes suspect. The businesses fronting the money often create the very economic instability and inequality the foundations are purported to solve. We are entering an age when the ideals of social justice are dependent on the strained rectitude and questionable generosity of the mega-rich.