Fundraising Reading List: An evolving bibliography of fundraising titles
Making time to study various aspects of fundraising can be an extremely valuable practice. Below are a few titles worth consideration.
Designs for Fundraising, Harold J. Seymour
This is considered one of the seminal works on fundraising. Fresh out of the Navy, Seymour began his career in 1919 when he joined the staff of the Harvard Endowment Fund Campaign, which was the first large-scale attempt to raise money for higher education. This book is the “elder statesman” of fundraising praxis, full of good sense, high ideals, and witty observations. I particularly enjoyed his insight into how a fundraiser should present himself. If you choose to read one book on fundraising, this is a great choice.
The Philanthropic Revolution, Jeremy Beer
Beer makes a compelling argument against philanthropy in this must read (and short) history of giving. If you’ve already read Designs for Fundraising, or want a higher level understanding of fundraising, I suggest this title. It’s significantly more philosophical than practical, but I would consider it essential reading for those who want to understand why fundraisers do what they do.
The Quest for Belonging, Jeremy Beer
I’ve read this book twice, and would add it to the must read list. What I particularly appreciate is Beer’s placement of fundraising within the context of American politics and culture, vis-a-vis Alexis de Tocqueville and the founders.
Beer is a unique and interesting voice in (American) fundraising. HeightsCast episode here.
Leaving a Legacy, Johann Kurtz
Should you leave your wealth to your children or to charity?
With an estimated $100 trillion (or more) expected to pass from older to younger generations over the next few decades, this is a civilizational level question. Kurtz makes a compelling case for why families are the rightful heirs of family money and why family heads should focus of building +1,000 year family legacies.
Born to Raise, Jerold Panas
I’d call this a fundraiser’s “pump-up” book. It can be a bit aggressive at times, but it’s a fairly enjoyable overview of the common personality traits of highly successful fundraisers. Jerry Panas is among the top names in the literature and several of his books are worth reading, if not this one. Breezy and enjoyable.
Philanthropy at Independent Schools (CASE), Helen A. Colson
Written in 1996 this work is a bit dated, and sometimes humorously so, but the essentials remain. This book clearly, and accurately, describes the work of independent school fundraising. One takeaway from this book is that little of what we do as fundraisers is ever groundbreaking or unique. And that in itself can be of great comfort!
The Forgotten Foundations of Fundraising, Jeremy Beer and Jeffrey Cain
Beer and Cain give practical tips for managing a fundraising operation. Many ideas introduced in The Philanthropic Revolution are continued here, along with specific metrics and takeaways. One point that stood out to me; the mean number of donor meetings that contain an ask is 39.5%. That is, less than 40% of meetings among top organizations include an ask for funds. Getting to know your donors is what’s most important.
What books are you reading? Connect with me on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.