Book Review: “Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership: Because the World Is Counting on You” by Joan Garry.

Submitted by Penny Forward Founder and CEO, Chris Peterson

In a world where the old rules no longer apply, nonprofit leadership is more important than ever.

Now in its second edition, Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership is a must-have resource for organizations of all shapes and sizes wanting to make a bigger difference in the world. Filled with real-life stories and concrete strategies, this practical guide helps develop the specialized skills and mindset needed to successfully lead and manage a stable and impactful world-class organization.

A lot has happened since Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership was first published in 2017. The COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 election cycle, and seismic economic and cultural shifts have transformed the nonprofit world. This second edition provides a wealth of new content and fresh perspectives on changes in the nonprofit landscape. Brand-new chapters bring the core responsibilities of board service to life, offer practical advice on how small nonprofits can have an outsized impact, discuss effective crisis management approaches, and deliver even more stories and lessons drawn from Joan Garry’s work with thousands of nonprofit leaders. Throughout the book, the author shares new insights on topics such as managing crises, graceful exits, organizational transitions, and more. Honest, authentic, and sometimes hilarious, this book will help you:

Gain a rich understanding of what it takes to lead a nonprofit
Raise awareness and make the greatest possible impact
Create successful and sustainable fundraising programs
Reinvigorate your organization’s passion for its mission
Work in true partnership with staff and board members
Respond effectively to crises and avoid common pitfalls

Written by the former Executive Director of GLAAD and founder of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab, Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership is required reading

Reviewer’s Thoughts

If you’ve ever felt the pull to make a difference in the world through nonprofit work, “Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership” is a must-read. Joan Garry, a renowned figure in the nonprofit sector, famously turned around GLAAD’s fortunes from having just $360 in the bank to over $1 million. With such an impressive track record, I was eager to dive into her insights. Finding the audiobook on Audible, narrated by Garry herself, was an added bonus—I love when authors narrate their books as it gives an authentic tone to their words.

The book exceeded all my expectations. It’s packed with clear examples and actionable steps, which is a godsend for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of nonprofit leadership. But what sets this book apart is its focus on relationships. Garry delves deep into the dynamics between executive directors and board chairs, staff and board members, volunteers, donors, and crucially, the community the nonprofit serves.

This relationship-centric approach is what truly makes the book shine. Garry doesn’t just tell you what to do; she shows you how to build and nurture the connections that are the backbone of any successful nonprofit. Whether you’re starting your own nonprofit, considering board service, volunteering, or working as a staff member, this book offers invaluable insights into the web of relationships and challenges you’ll encounter.

“Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership” is more than just a guide; it’s a source of encouragement and inspiration. It reminds us why we strive to make an impact and shows us practical ways to amplify our organization’s effectiveness. If you’re in the nonprofit world, this book is an essential companion on your journey to making a meaningful difference.

Book Details

Title: Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership: Because the World Is Counting on You 2nd Edition
Author: Joan Garry
Length: 308 pages
Audiobook length: 9 hrs and 31 mins