Book Description
The philanthropic landscape is changing dramatically as a new generation of wealthy donors seeks to leave its mark on the public sphere. Peter Frumkin reveals in Strategic Giving why these donors could benefit from having a comprehensive plan to guide their giving. And with this thoughtful and timely book, he provides the much-needed framework to understand and develop this kind of philanthropic strategy.
After listening for years to scores of individual and institutional funders discuss the challenges of giving wisely, Frumkin argues here that contemporary philanthropy requires a thorough rethinking of its underlying logic. Philanthropy should be seen, he contends, as both a powerful way to meet public needs and a meaningful way to express private beliefs and commitments. He demonstrates that finding a way to simultaneously fulfill both of these functions is crucial to the survival of philanthropy and its potential to support pluralism in society. And he goes on to identify the five essential elements donors must consider when developing a philanthropic strategy—the vehicle through which giving will flow, the way impact will be achieved, the level of engagement and profile sought, the time frame for giving, and the underlying purpose of the gift. Frumkin’s point is that donors must understand strategic giving as the integration of these five critical dimensions to giving.
Essential reading for donors, researchers, and anyone involved with the world of philanthropy, Strategic Giving provides a new basis for understanding philanthropic effectiveness and a promising new way for philanthropy to achieve the legitimacy that has at times eluded it.
Customer Reviews:
A wonderful book for donors who want to be (or are) engaged in philanthropy.......2006-10-19
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is good, well written, and includes lots of thought. Clearly much time was spent writing it.
This book is not for the philanthropist who merely gives a little. And it is not a guide for major donors who want to give effectively and in an informed and strategic way. Instead, this book is for major donors to read and learn more about the donor world that exists today. It provides a comprehensive theoretical framework of that world along with analysis.
I just got done reading Tracy Gary's "Inspired Philanthropy" written in 2002 (ISBN: 0787964107) which covers the same subject material, but in a different perspective. Instead of going heavy on the theoretical framework of the donor world as Frumkin does, Gary provides a guide to creating one's "giving plan." In a way I think "Inspired Philanthropy" and "Strategic Giving" are companion books even though different authors write them. By reading Frumkin's book along with Gary's book major donors can BETTER create a giving plan.
The book has the following 10 chapters:
1. Philanthropy and the Public Sector
2. Central Problems in Philanthropy
3. Donors and Professionals
4. The Idea of Strategic Giving
5. Dimensions of Philanthropic Value
6. Logic Models: Theories of Change, Leverage and Scale
7. Institutions and Vehicles
8. Giving Styles
9. Time Frames for Giving
10. Measuring, Knowing and Acting
I found the first three chapters to be my favorite. It is where the author explains that the nonprofit sector lacks much accountability and thus donors who donate blindly may be throwing their money into black holes. Maybe enough people will read the book and try to effectuate change so there will be more accountability in the future?
Chapters 4 through 10 are the chapters that seriously supplement Gary's book by providing prose on the art and science of philanthropy. If you are a major donor, then seriously consider giving both these books a read. You won't be disappointed. 5 stars!
Book Description
When Danny Gregory's life was turned upside down by tragedy, he learned to cope by teaching himself to draw. The result was a complete transformation of his life, his priorities, his career, and the way he saw the world. In handwritten chapters full of his lush watercolor illustrations, Danny now offers readers a program for reconnecting to their own creative energies, using drawing as an example. He gently instructs us in the art of allowing ourselves to fail, giving up the expectation of perfection and opening our eyes to the beauty around us. The result is the permission to express ourselves fully and take part in the creative process without fear. Artist or not, readers of all stripes will find inspiration in this unique and beautiful book.
Customer Reviews:
Great book for Drawing Inspiration.......2007-08-20
This was a good, inspiring book about drawing and the power it can have in your life. Mr. Gregory worked in advertising for many years and finally gave it up to become an artist, and began keeping sketchbooks as a way to grow. He gives lots and lots of examples and tips on what you can do yourself to enhance your creativity and draw more. His drawings are beautiful and for the most part his prose is very upbeat and made me want to get out there and draw.
I do have one quibble, though, and that's a tiny hint of snobbery in some of his text. For the most part he'll say "do your own thing" or "whatever feels right for you", which I think is the proper way to approach making artwork, but then he'll come out with something like, "only draw in ink" like there's something wrong with pencil. And "you have to go to New York because that's where it's at" which is utter nonsense for many people. This is the kind of thing that makes one think they have to do something a certain way, but to me making art is so personal that I think one should use whatever technique or style they wish.
That being said, I would definitely recommend this book for a good kick in the butt to get out there and get drawing!
Making drawing accessible.......2007-07-07
This is my favorite book as an introduction to illuminated journals. I tried books on "visual" or "creative" journaling, but for me, I just can't connect with abstract blocks of color and shape as symbols of specific insights or emotions. I'm a writer, a words person, but sometimes words just aren't enough for me for capturing a moment. So I looked at other books on illuminated journals, but they're so beautifully rendered by talented and experienced artists that they were too intimidating for me.
Then I found this book. Danny Gregory is a little overlong at the start when he talks about the value of creativity in general. (If you've picked up the book at all, you probably don't need that much persuading.) But once you pick up a pen, he really gets going. He covers the basics of drawing, and I love his analogy linking learning to draw with learning to drive. I also like that he asks you to dare to make mistakes by using a pen instead of a pencil. He doesn't even have you use an actual "journal" at first so you can comfortable with drawing.
I also like that he keeps the book simple throughout. A lot of these types of books have you off to the art supply store with a *list* within the first 2 or 3 chapters. Here, all you'll ever need is a black pen, and maybe some color pens or thicker pens later.
I was surprised to learn that as drawing goes, I'm not all that bad, and I'm certainly good enough for my journals.
A Review from Texas.......2007-06-28
I LOVE this book. I have dabbled at drawing but found it more work than pleasure. When I started reading Creative License I realized that it could be fun and relaxing. "Don't erase your mistakes" was a very liberating statement to me. Now I can't wait to see something that begs me to get my pen and paper out and DRAW!
The Creative License.......2007-06-02
Thoroghly enjoyed it. Will start doing the exercises tomorrow. Simple and effective for the busy schedule.
Encouraging.......2007-04-16
This book will either open your eyes to a new way of thinking about creativity or will serve as a confirmation if you have already headed down the path of self expression. Fun to read and lots of practice ideas included.
Product Description
Providing constructive feedback on writing is essential for helping students improve their skills. With this time-saving tool from writing expert Ruth Culham, you?ll have more than 100 just-right comments at your fingertips. Correlated with student-friendly scoring guides?also included?and organized by trait, Ruth provides responses to writing at three different levels of achievement. The comments give students direction on where to focus their attention and what strategies to try as they revise or begin a new writing project. This tabbed, four-color guide is a must-have for any writing teacher!
Book Description
More than 100 million Americans volunteer their time, talent, and energy to help individuals, solve social problems, and build strong communities. These volunteers, ages five to 95, share the common goal of making a difference. They are Americas Points of Light: ordinary people who have shaped our countrys character. Together they constitute an extraordinary beacon that has made America a source of hope for the world. This beautifully illustrated book celebrates Americas culture of caring with portraits that include some winners of the Daily Points of Light Award. Readers will be moved by the abundant rewards of giving and be motivated to let their own lights shine.
Customer Reviews:
Very inspiring!.......2006-10-30
This collection of stories about people who volunteer their time to help others and their experiences is very inspiring.
Two of my favorite stories are:
The Light of Love (Chapter 2) - the story of a teenager, who trains Seeing Eye dogs, loves them but has learned to let them go so that these dogs can help others.
The Light of Forgiveness (Chapter 5) - the story of a mother who learned to forgive the young man who murdered her son and went on to set up a program that helps young men in prison and other released men.
POINTS OF LIGHT gets you thinking about how you can help others and then offers suggestions on how you can get started. The consequences of volunteering seem to be not only life changing for those in need but for the volunteer, too.
This book should be in every household and everyone should read it.
Thank you, Robert Goodwin, Thomas Kinkade, and Pam Proctor for putting the stories of these volunteers together.
Fafa Demasio
Response to ah caramba.......2006-08-25
I had to respond to your comment on Mr. Kinkade. I happen to be acquainted with him and can assure you that he is a person who definately knows about volunteering! He is extremely generous of both his talent and his time, and devoted to his community. I suggest you limit your comments to the book and not to the authors.
Points of Light - A Celebration of the American Spirit of Giving.......2006-07-10
I found this to be a great book with great stories! Simply inspiring! I wish more people would just do simple acts of kindness...this world would truly be a better place. I volunteer but these stories inspired me to do more!
To be read by those who truly support volunteerism!.......2006-07-10
This book goes beyond the typical inspirational stories, and truly focuses on the effect that volunteerism has in our community. For people who are truly committed to supporting social change, this book is a must read. One that you can go back to year after year for a boost of motivation!
Great book!.......2006-07-07
This book is filled with truly inspiring stories that reinforce my desire to give back to the community I live in. At a time when so much negativity exists in the world, it's great to know that there are people out there making a difference just because they want too.
Book Description
Conflict is an unavoidable aspect of living. The late renowned aikido master Terry Dobson, together with Victor Miller, present aikido as a basis for conflict resolution. "Attack-tics" is a system of conflict resolution based on the principles of aikido, the non-violent martial art Morihei Ueshiba created after World War II. Not all conflicts are contests, say Dobson and Miller, and not all conflicts are equally threatening.
Customer Reviews:
The Spirit of Aiki.......2007-08-27
On the mat, we learn the techniques of Aikido - the ways to move, the joint locks, the pins - but this book is about the spirit of Aiki. Knowing how to blend with your attacker when they come at you, thrusting the jagged edge of a broken beer bottle is good to know. Knowing how to blend with someone BEFORE they break the beer bottle and come after your throat is better to know.
This book is true to the goal of all Aikidoka; no matter what is coming at you, no matter how fierce the attack, no matter how many attackers, stay centered. Remaining centered gives you your best attempt at blending with the coming attack.
Having just finished reading the book, I cannot attest to how well the techniques work. I can attest, however, to how much easier it is to handle conflicts since I began practicing Aikido and began actively and purposefully looking for ways to be more centered during arguments. This book gives tips on the techniques I lacked or stumbled upon by accident. Still, like my Aikido, this will take practice, but the fun is in following the path!
Many will not understand this book..........2007-02-12
Authored by Terry Dobson, one of the earliest Occidentals to study Aikido in Japan under the Founder, and a self-described "oddball", this book is somewhat crytic in its approach, and one might possibly have to understand a lot more about the author to really get their head around this one. One man's trash, another man's treasure...
truths principles solutions.......2006-12-14
I find myself returning to things I learned in this book often enough that it has become one of the major influences in my life. Peaceful coexistance with other humans is a lot harder in practice than in theory for me, and this book taught me useful attitudes and techniques for dealing with conflict. Specifically, for peaceful and harmonious conflict resolution. What a concept!! I shudder to think about going back to my old blundering, at least now when I mess up I have a clearer idea of what went wrong and what I can do next time.
This book has helped me with things like: resolving incidents at work that could have led to my termination, dealing with drunks on the street while walking through the city, dealing with sensitive problems within my family and with my close friends.
Must Read to Understand Aikido.......2005-08-02
For me, this book is very helpful in helping me deal with my everyday conflict in the 'aikido way'. As an Aikido student, almost all the physical techniques I learn in class are mostly suitable for physical `attacks'. This book has `enlightened' me on how to handle non-physical `attacks' (communication, social confrontation, problem handling, etc). Complete understanding of both makes us realized that the aikido concept is almost complete for physical and non-physical `attacks' we face everyday.
A deeply meaninful book for me.......2005-03-03
As an aikido student, I found that this book has brought a new dimension to my practice as well as my ability to handle conflict in personal relationships. It incorporates the principles of aikido in dealing with conflict in relationships. I recommend this book for any aikidoist who wants to enhance his or her practice, or anyone who is interested in learning how to deal with conflict in ways other than fight or flight.
Book Description
"A unique book with a unique approach, this is destined to become a classic." —Charitable Gift Planning News
In this deeply humane and informative book, Douglas White deftly weaves together personal insight and level-headed advice in a probing look at the human side of planned giving. He helps you understand, develop, and use the interpersonal skills that are an essential part of every successful planned giving officer's art.
White provides practical answers to such crucial questions as: How do I successfully approach a prospect for a planned gift? What are the steps to building a prospect's trust and instilling a sense of mission? How can I tell if I'm being too aggressive—or not aggressive enough? How do I handle a donor's lawyer and other advisors who don't support the gift?
Tracing the entire process of acquiring a planned gift from the first phone call to managing the gift's assets, White offers many helpful pointers on how to deal with donors, their families, and their professional advisors, as well as executive directors and board members within your organization. He also helps you translate technical knowledge into planned gifts that are better for both donors and charities.
The first book to take you beyond the mere mechanics and into the very soul of planned giving, The Art of Planned Giving is an important working resource for planned giving officers, fund-raising professionals and consultants, as well as nonprofit executives and board members.
Customer Reviews:
Getting a Good Gift.......2002-05-02
"Giving Good Gifts" is a thoughtful account of the wonderful gifts we give to our family and the gifts our families give to us. Dr. Conway talks about a number of important topics ranging from the role of parental modeling in teaching our children to the role schools can play in teaching our children about honor. As Headmaster of a K-12 private school, Dr. Conway has been the surrogate parent to many children. His retelling of various experiences is a lesson in understanding child development.
One of my favorite parts was his telling of a crisis of confidence that hit his school that still has an honor code. Putting his reputation and the concept of their honor program at risk, Dr. Conway let the system work to the desired outcome in managing a series of thefts that hit the school. Honor is a gift we model for children as one parent learned in having his son report that he had cheated on a test. With all the problems that hit schools today it is reassuring that educators like Dr. Conway see a child's education developing from more than classroom lectures.
Dr. Conway is also a Biblical scholar and his Christian beliefs provide a strong foundation for addressing difficult topics. He talks about adolescent suicide and provides insight into understanding both causes and possible prevention processes for this difficult area.
My favorite chapter of all was the chapter on doubt. It explained to me some of the alienation that many "boomers" have had with organized religion. Dr. Conway is the first religous scholar I have ever heard who described doubt as a process of growth instead of a process of weakness.
This is an excellent read for those who appreciate the thoughtful reflections of an experienced headmaster with strong religious training and beliefs who has been successful in making his school one of the top in the country by understanding and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Bob Sammons, M.D., Ph.D.
Thumbs up for "Giving Good Gifts".......2002-03-10
All parents need help and practical advice when it comes to developing the spiritual life of their children. Adults want to give children every possible advantage for becoming well balanced, responsible people. In his book "Giving Good Gifts...The Spiritual Journey of Parenthood", George Conway offers easy applicable advice. Each chapter is followed by a wonderful list of suggestions that can become part of family life immediately.
George Conway has spent his life with young people as a teacher, coach, counselor and headmaster. Couple that experience with a depth of theological and Biblical knowledge and you have a great combination. His writing style is winsome, entertaining and informative.
I am currently using the book to teach a parenting class in the church I serve as senior pastor. The class members are enjoying the read, appreciate the chapter ending suggestions, and find plenty to discuss every week.
Book Description
This is a translation of an important classic on Zen swordfighting. Yagyu Munenori was so widely renowned that he was appointed official sword instructor to two Tokugawa shoguns. (The position was always coveted by Miyamoto Musashi, but he never succeeded in gaining the post). Yagyu's style is
known as the Shinkage-ryu style, for centuries the official style of the Tokugawa dynasty. His spiritual mentor was Zen priest Takuan. Here, Yagyu's Buddhist spirituality is clearly reflected in his central idea of the "life-giving sword" - the notion of controlling an opponent by the spiritual
readiness to fight, rather than during the fight. His mastery of restraint and diplomacy made him a trusted political and military advisor to the shoguns. This book is a look into a master swordsman's thoughts on nonattachment and even non-violence.
Customer Reviews:
The Best Translation Available.......2007-09-26
Of the several English translations available, I think this is the best. Each version is formatted slightly differently, but I find this version the most readable.Bushido: The Way of the Samurai (Square One Classics)
Wonderful.......2007-05-02
I give this book five stars simply because I love it. For anyone who finds Miyamoto Musashi's book a little hard to fathom at first, then maybe you could start with this.
I have a number of translations by William Scott Wilson, the most recent being 'The Demon's Sermon on the Martial Arts', I love them all and have to say that I prefer his translations over any other.
A classical text.......2005-05-13
Munenori's book is a classic work of Japanese literature that explores the Way of the sword through what we in the west might call a philosphical approach. Yet, I don't think the distinction between the physical style and philosophical approach would be seperate categories to Munenori. His book sets out to present the Way as a total approach of mind, body, and spirit, and not merely the development of each independently. Reading the book in any other way will probably make it fairly disappointing.
The other thing to remember about this book is its a classic by one of the most influential sword instructors of his era. In that respect, the book is rich with perspective on early 17th century Japanese culture. Particularly interesting are the reprinted plates in the back of the book showing the original inked pages of technique.
As other viewers pointed out, this is not a book for someone simply learning to wield a sword. Instead, Munenori's book is a fascinating account of swordsmanship that gives the reader insight not only to the richness of the Way, but also wonderful insight on a fascinating historical figure. Highly recommended for those interested in Japanese culture, history of samurai, and the feudal era.
Giving life to the sword.......2004-05-25
Anyone who looks to a book to learn how to swing a sword will forever be disappointed. Those of us who have actually taken the time train in the sword know that direct transmition is the only way (yes, the schools still exist -- go find one).
What this book presents (along with some very good subtle sword pointers) is the proper mental attitude you must gain in order to progress on the path. Mr. Wilson does a wonderful job translating a difficult text. If you are serious about sword, get this book AND go find a teacher ...
Musashi does a better job..........2004-02-17
Munenori presents a very abstract, Zen oriented manual to the art of swordsmanship. The book hints at oral instruction as the primary body of the teaching to accompany the book and it shows through in the reading. In my impression, the book reads much more like a book of Zen philosophy than it does a swordsmanship manual. Granted, most books regarding the topic incorporate Zen, however this book leans much more towards Zen instead of its applications in sword fighting. Supposedly, Munenori is the "middle ground" between the extreme, Zen-oriented Takuan Soho ("The Unfettered Mind") and the practical, loner swordsman Miyamoto Musashi ("The Book of Five Rings"). In my opinion, Munenori (whom the book states was heavily influenced by Takuan) also leans toward the "Zen extreme" style of writing.
Personally, I think anyone would be better off reading "The Book of Five Rings" by Miyamoto Musashi. His practical approach blends application and spiritual insight in a much better approach. If you are interested primarily in Zen and sword fighting, you are better off reading the two chapters regarding Swordsmanship in Suzuki's "Zen and Japanese Culture". If you love the abstract, Zen only readings, Suzuki's "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" is for you. In short, the book isn't really worth reading when better classics are already out there given the subject matter.
Book Description
Throughout the country, historic preservation has become a veritable industry. In New York City alone, the preservation movement has acquired a great deal of power, saving numerous edifices from the wrecking ball. New York is not alone, across the country, grassroots movements to preserve various aspects of the nation's past-Indian burial grounds, slave quarters and deco buildings. In this volume, some of the best figures in the field have come together to write on preservation movements
Giving Preservation a History also touches on the European roots of the historic preservation movement; on how preservation movements have taken a leading role in shaping American urban space and urban development; how historic preservation battles have reflected broader social forces; and what the changing nature of historic preservation bodes for the effort to preserve the nation's past.
Book Description
Giving Academic Presentations provides guidance on academic-style presentations for ESL students and native speakers. One goal of this text is to make presenters aware that giving an effective presentation requires mastery of a broad range of skills. Students will learn how to choose an appropriate topic, create effective visuals, and design a speech opening.
This textbook provides:
helpful analyses of speeches
examination of major speech types, accompanying organizational strategies, and related language use
tips for improving nonverbal behavior
suggestions for speaker-listener interaction
an analysis of ways to qualify claims and strategies for improving them
opportunities for evaluating one's work and the work of others
Books:
- Suffer the Little Children: A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery
- The America's Test Kitchen Family Cookbook Revised Edition: Featuring More Than 1,200 Kitchen-tested Recipes, 1,500 Photographs And No-nonsense Equipment And Ingredient Ratings
- The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby from Birth to Age Two (Revised and Updated Edition)
- The Campaign: Rudy Giuliani, Ruth Messinger, Al Sharpton, and the Race to Be Mayor of New York City
- The Clinton Crack-Up: The Boy President's Life After the White House
- The Decorated Page: Journals, Scrapbooks & Albums Made Simply Beautiful
- The Grand Illusion: Love, Lies, and My Life With Styx
- The Great Domaines of Burgundy: A Guide to the Finest Wine Producers of the Cote D'or
- The Invention of Hugo Cabret
- The Jesus Family Tomb: The Discovery, the Investigation, and the Evidence That Could Change History
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- The Enemy
- John Carter of Mars - volume 2 - Warlord of Mars & Thuvia, Maid of Mars
- Gidget
- Hachiko Waits
- George DeWolfe's Digital Photography Fine Print Workshop
- Marine Conservation Biology: The Science of Maintaining the Sea's Biodiversity
- How to Write and Publish a Scientific Paper: 6th Edition
- Secrets of the Ocean Realm
- George III: King and Politicians 1760-1770
- Three cheers for the next man to die
General
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
The Foundation: A Great American Secret; How Private Wealth is Changing the World
Inspired Philanthropy: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Giving Plan, 2nd Edition
CREATIVE PHILANTHROPY
Great Philanthropic Mistakes
Just Money: A Critique of Contemporary American Philanthropy
