AHP AUGUST LITERATURE REVIEW
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"Seeing Through a Donor's Eyes"
by Tom Ahern
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When I worked as a capital campaign consultant, the firm that I worked for had a specialist on staff whose job it was to write the campaign “case for support.” Now I have to write my own. Thank goodness for Ahern’s book, which is truly one of the great books on fundraising that has been published in recent years. Every chapter offers inspiration and instruction in the how-to and why-for of writing persuasive letters, brochures, ad copy, solicitation briefs and so on for fund-raising efforts of all sorts, from annual drives to planned giving programs to capital campaigns. But the book is more than a “how-to” manual in the same way that the “case” is more than a list of needed projects. The case statement is a “body of language” about the very essence of an organization. Ahern’s well-written, nuanced book speaks to the very essence of our profession – finding creative ways to inspire philanthropy. A colleague has asked to borrow my copy of the book “when I am finished with it.” I have advised her to buy her own copy, as mine is not leaving my desk for a very long time.
-Gary Jaworski, executive director, American Hospital of Paris Foundation
Highlighting generosity from the 1600's through the modern day, Gaudiani shares historical and motivational snippets on the power of philanthropy. Summarized for me in "Generosity RULES!" through Proverbs 11:24 the author shares "One man gives freely, yet gains even more. Another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper."
This quick 43 page read is a guidebook that could be shared with board members, family or community leaders. Gaudiani feels that generosity begins a cycle of supporting the common good by generating opportunities, creating prosperity and leading to gratitude. "Generosity RULES!" showcases how lucky we all are to be a part of this cycle throughout our lives, whether we recognize it at the time or not. Don't miss the seven habits that all should be alert to in chapter six. The book is not for everyone but is a nice reminder to the power of the individual to change the world.
- Robert May, FAHP, director, Mission Hospital Foundation
It took me a few moments to warm up to this slim book, because it seemed a bit choppy and that a good editor might have helped. But in the end, I found “Generosity” a worthwhile read. Gaudiani’s “Cycle of Generosity” – Generosity, Opportunity, Prosperity and Gratitude – is a useful rubric, and its snippets of wisdom are appropriately organized into these four sections. Board members might particularly enjoy the “Seven Habits of Highly Generous People” chapter as a ready reminder about why they serve as volunteer strategists and solicitors.
- Ruth Benedict, executive director, Finger Lakes Health Foundation
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"Winning Gifts : Make Your Donors Feel Like Winners"
by Thomas D. Wilson
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"Winning Gifts" is an ideal read for anyone considering a career in fundraising or for seasoned fundraisers who need a reaffirmation of why they chose this field in the first place. Wilson’s inspirational book elevates the self-view of the fundraiser from someone simply raising money to further their organization’s goals to someone with the unique power to give donors the reward of meaningful and fulfilling gift-giving experiences.
- Rachel Fournier, director of corporate and foundation relations, St. Mary Medical Center Foundation
This book, published in 2003, is frequently required reading for managers in health care systems large and small. Take a look around the internet and try to find a single negative review of it: they aren’t there – and with good reason. “Hardwiring Excellence” is an inspiring, practical handbook, filled with ideas and approaches to rejuvenate burned-out staff, save lives and make working in the field ever-fresh, even on days when you’re under fire. Studer is completely candid about every flop and misstep of his career, and how he learned the truth behind his principles of excellence. The book is organized around five “Pillars” – People, Service, Quality, Finance and Growth – and is filled with strategies to measure, develop, move, assess, align, implement and hardwire best practices. From sample questions to ask while rounding, to ideas for inspiring top employees to be “fire starters,” "Hardwiring Excellence" demonstrates how to develop and multiply the people who can keep the flame alive. A terrific, must-read.
- Ruth Benedict, executive director, Finger Lakes Health Foundation