When it comes to volunteering and philanthropy, sometimes it helps to have some inspiration. One of the best ways to get inspired is to read a book that’s related to helping others. Take a look at the below list of books you should pick up to learn more about making a difference in the world.
Do It Anyway: The New Generation of Activists – Courtney E. Martin
Courtney E. Martin’s work has appeared in major publications like the New York Times and Washington Post. Her work has also appeared on On Being, a site that explores the questions “What does it mean to be human, and how do we want to live?” (Who We Are). In the pages of Do It Anyway, Martin profiles eight different activists who attempt to make the world a better place. Part of the book’s goal is to show others how regular people can make a difference through activism.
Building Powerful Community Organizations: A Personal Guide to Creating Groups that Can Solve Problems and Change the World – Michael Jacoby Brown
Michael Jacoby Brown has over 30 years of experience in the world of nonprofits and social justice. Building Powerful Community Organizations draws on all of Brown’s experience and guides readers on how they can develop their leadership skills and start their own nonprofit organizations. The book covers a number of important topics like how to raise money and how to keep members of your organization motivated. Numerous case studies highlight the book’s ideas and bring them to life.
Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul: Stories to Celebrate the Spirit of Courage, Caring and Community – Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and more
After reading this book you’ll find it difficult to not volunteer. By focusing on the stories of a diverse group of everyday people who volunteer in their spare time, the book shows that everybody has the capability to make a difference. Volunteering can be difficult, thankless work at times. Yet this book is a reminder of how life-changing the experience can be. Every volunteer should keep a copy of this book on their shelf for those times when they need a reminder of why they work so hard.
How to Change the World: Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas – David Bornstein
How to Change the World is full of case studies that demonstrate of social entrepreneurship has changed the world for the better. In recent years social entrepreneurship has become increasingly popular. This book does a good job of explaining social entrepreneurship and providings “real world” examples from all over the globe. Here is the book’s Wikipedia entry. It provides short summaries of each case study.