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Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Become a Nonprofit Nine Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Are you over-worked and under-resourced? It’s possible that your nonprofit has gotten stuck in the startup phase. This phase is not time-dependent. It is behavioral, and organizations can be stuck in startup mode into their thirtieth year of operation and beyond. The startup phase of an organization’s lifecycle is usually characterized as having a lack of formalized structures. It can be defined by the scrappy “get it done on a shoestring budget” mindset that limits investment in strategy, planning, professionalism, structure, and growth. Whether you are launching a new nonprofit or you have been serving your mission for thirty years, Become a Nonprofit Pro will help you make the nonprofit you love more competitive for funding, more effective in its mission, and an overall greater force for the change you want to see in the world. Nonprofit expert and Certified Fundraising Executive Tawnia Wise shares lessons learned from more than two decades working with nonprofits of all sizes and levels of sophistication. As a sought-after nonprofit consultant, Wise will entertain you with the advice she provides her clients most often. She relates the nine most common pitfalls nonprofits encounter using case studies, cautionary tales, and pro tips. Growing up as a resident of section 8 housing and a recipient of public benefits, Tawnia Wise is passionate about helping others from hard beginnings realize their dreams and potential. As founder and CEO of WISE, Tawnia Wise has transformed nonprofit consulting, combining strategy and tactical support to help clients of all sizes elevate their organization’s ability to serve their mission.
- GenresBusinessNonfiction
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2023
14 people are currently reading
816 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 29, 2023
This is a wonderful book for anyone involved in the nonprofit world. By showing the most common pitfalls, readers can get a glimpse into how everything works and find a framework upon which to build and expand their organization.
After reading it, I feel like I'm able to identify common issues much faster and navigate through them more effectively. This is helpful not only for people just getting started in nonprofits but also for seasoned professionals.
In this challenging environment, learning remains an essential tool, so this book makes it to the top of my list, as it contains valuable insight to all readers.
I would like to express my gratitude for having received an online copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
After reading it, I feel like I'm able to identify common issues much faster and navigate through them more effectively. This is helpful not only for people just getting started in nonprofits but also for seasoned professionals.
In this challenging environment, learning remains an essential tool, so this book makes it to the top of my list, as it contains valuable insight to all readers.
I would like to express my gratitude for having received an online copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
October 3, 2023
I thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for this ARC.
This review is based on my reading of this book and is an honest feedback about it.
There are not many books about the processes that are at work in non-profits. And it happens to be a very important vertical across the world whether at work standalone, with governments, with other non-profits, with foundations, with communities, with funders, with everybody; to be ignored when each of us could be directly or indirectly involved in the works or part of the processes.
This is a great book for insiders as well as the world at large. Insiders are people who are involved in non-profits or NGO's (non-government organisations) as they are known as in my part of the world (India). Rest of the world comprise of funders, beneficiaries, governments and fence-sitters.
For all of them it is imperative to understand how non-profits work and what they face when they work. Not being businesses, managing them are a challenge and this is where this book by a sectoral expert like Tawnia focuses on salient points that push the envelope for non-profits and which are faced by the organisations in some form or another across the world.
Having been involved in non-profits for much of my working life, this book comes as one which helps map the possible and presumptive challenges that are faced by the community (non-profits).
The book covers some very good ground in terms of the understanding of non-profits and is also a tool for Tawnia to promote her consultancy.
Although this book reads primarily from the view of a funding agency while shortlisting non-profits to fund but it works equally well as a reference manual for a non-profit to make their organisation robust and also to manage paperwork which the industry expects. This will help them in making proper pitches for funding as well as trying to keep existing funders satisfied. This is a definitive best practices manual.
The only challenges for me to accept this book as a whole is that it has been written keeping Tawnia's experience in mind and the rules, parameters and examples may not be fit for readers to use as a manual in the developing countries. This limitation forces me to take the rating down to 4 stars but taking nothing away from the well curated content.
But the general points mentioned are an absolute everywhere and is easily understood. This book also stops in the understanding of personality and individual driven non-profits where the decisions are often taken by the founders both initially and also in the long term. Those are challenges of a different type that need another book altogether. Unfortunately the personal website mentioned at the end in the book does not work so was not able to do any more reading up on Tawnia.
But overall had a great time reading this and comparing my notes with the points mentioned in this book.
Recommended.
This review is based on my reading of this book and is an honest feedback about it.
There are not many books about the processes that are at work in non-profits. And it happens to be a very important vertical across the world whether at work standalone, with governments, with other non-profits, with foundations, with communities, with funders, with everybody; to be ignored when each of us could be directly or indirectly involved in the works or part of the processes.
This is a great book for insiders as well as the world at large. Insiders are people who are involved in non-profits or NGO's (non-government organisations) as they are known as in my part of the world (India). Rest of the world comprise of funders, beneficiaries, governments and fence-sitters.
For all of them it is imperative to understand how non-profits work and what they face when they work. Not being businesses, managing them are a challenge and this is where this book by a sectoral expert like Tawnia focuses on salient points that push the envelope for non-profits and which are faced by the organisations in some form or another across the world.
Having been involved in non-profits for much of my working life, this book comes as one which helps map the possible and presumptive challenges that are faced by the community (non-profits).
The book covers some very good ground in terms of the understanding of non-profits and is also a tool for Tawnia to promote her consultancy.
Although this book reads primarily from the view of a funding agency while shortlisting non-profits to fund but it works equally well as a reference manual for a non-profit to make their organisation robust and also to manage paperwork which the industry expects. This will help them in making proper pitches for funding as well as trying to keep existing funders satisfied. This is a definitive best practices manual.
The only challenges for me to accept this book as a whole is that it has been written keeping Tawnia's experience in mind and the rules, parameters and examples may not be fit for readers to use as a manual in the developing countries. This limitation forces me to take the rating down to 4 stars but taking nothing away from the well curated content.
But the general points mentioned are an absolute everywhere and is easily understood. This book also stops in the understanding of personality and individual driven non-profits where the decisions are often taken by the founders both initially and also in the long term. Those are challenges of a different type that need another book altogether. Unfortunately the personal website mentioned at the end in the book does not work so was not able to do any more reading up on Tawnia.
But overall had a great time reading this and comparing my notes with the points mentioned in this book.
Recommended.
November 12, 2023
A Wise Approach to Empowering Nonprofits...
"Become a Nonprofit Pro" by Tawnia Wise is a must-read for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector, offering invaluable insights garnered from over two decades of experience. Wise adeptly identifies and addresses the common pitfalls that nonprofits, whether in their early stages or well-established, often encounter.
The book breaks free from the time-dependent notion of startup phases, emphasizing the behavioral aspects that can keep organizations in startup mode for decades. Wise delves into the challenges arising from a lack of formalized structures, emphasizing the need to move beyond the scrappy mindset towards strategic planning, professionalism, and growth.
Wise's expertise shines as she shares lessons through entertaining advice, drawing from real-world case studies, cautionary tales, and professional tips. The book doesn't just highlight the problems; it provides actionable solutions to make nonprofits more competitive for funding, effective in their mission, and a greater force for positive change.
What sets Wise's perspective apart is her personal journey from Section 8 housing to becoming a Certified Fundraising Executive and the CEO of WISE. Her passion for helping others with challenging beginnings shines through, adding a unique and empathetic touch to the book.
Whether you're launching a new nonprofit or have decades of experience, "Become a Nonprofit Pro" is a comprehensive guide that empowers organizations to navigate challenges successfully. Wise's blend of strategic insights and practical advice makes this book an essential resource for those dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the nonprofit world.
"Become a Nonprofit Pro" by Tawnia Wise is a must-read for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector, offering invaluable insights garnered from over two decades of experience. Wise adeptly identifies and addresses the common pitfalls that nonprofits, whether in their early stages or well-established, often encounter.
The book breaks free from the time-dependent notion of startup phases, emphasizing the behavioral aspects that can keep organizations in startup mode for decades. Wise delves into the challenges arising from a lack of formalized structures, emphasizing the need to move beyond the scrappy mindset towards strategic planning, professionalism, and growth.
Wise's expertise shines as she shares lessons through entertaining advice, drawing from real-world case studies, cautionary tales, and professional tips. The book doesn't just highlight the problems; it provides actionable solutions to make nonprofits more competitive for funding, effective in their mission, and a greater force for positive change.
What sets Wise's perspective apart is her personal journey from Section 8 housing to becoming a Certified Fundraising Executive and the CEO of WISE. Her passion for helping others with challenging beginnings shines through, adding a unique and empathetic touch to the book.
Whether you're launching a new nonprofit or have decades of experience, "Become a Nonprofit Pro" is a comprehensive guide that empowers organizations to navigate challenges successfully. Wise's blend of strategic insights and practical advice makes this book an essential resource for those dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the nonprofit world.
November 18, 2023
I think this book was a great find! “Become a Nonprofit Pro” by Tawnia Wise is an indispensable guide for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector, based on Wise's extensive two-decade experience. The book skillfully addresses common pitfalls that nonprofits encounter, emphasizing behavioral aspects that can impede growth, even for well-established organizations. I think that the best part of this book is that it includes real-world case studies and cautionary tales, which enrich the narrative, offering actionable solutions for nonprofits to secure funding, fulfill their missions and drive positive change. I believe that Wise's strategic insights and practical advice is what makes this book essential for those committed to making a meaningful impact in the nonprofit world. I highly recommend reading it!
November 18, 2023
Become a Nonprofit Pro is a fascinating and very useful book written by Tawnia Wise. The book explains the insights and keys to non-profit companies and does so from the author's vast experience. The book explains the different stages of creating this type of organisation, the difficulties that anyone can encounter along the way, and the best way to resolve them and continue working towards achieving objectives. All the lessons that the book transmits are very interesting both for people who are just starting out in non-profit organisations and for those who are already working on this type of project. The author shares useful and entertaining advice, based on real-world case studies, cautionary tales, and professional advice. This is a comprehensive guide that enables organisations to meet challenges and achieve success. Recommended for everyone who wants to be part of the change.
November 14, 2023
"Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them" by Tawnia Wise is an invaluable guide for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector. Wise navigates through the intricacies of nonprofit management, offering practical insights and solutions to common challenges. The book's concise yet comprehensive approach makes it accessible to both novices and seasoned professionals. Wise's firsthand experience lends authenticity to her advice. I appreciate the actionable strategies provided to sidestep pitfalls. Whether you're starting a nonprofit or looking to enhance an existing one, this book is an indispensable resource. I highly recommend this read for its practical wisdom and empowering guidance.
November 16, 2023
Great advice
Excellent guide to running a nonprofit. This book tells you everything you need to know, in great detail, but organized and presented in a way that's not overwhelming and keeps the information digestible. You can't (or shouldn't) jump in and start a cat rescue just because you love cats. There are so many aspects related to logistical and financial planning and research that needs to be done in order to make your nonprofit thrive. To be honest I used to be a little skeptical of nonprofit consulting, but this book really makes it clear that so much work has to go on behind the scenes, and a consultant may just be the most efficient way to get your nonprofit running smoothly.
Excellent guide to running a nonprofit. This book tells you everything you need to know, in great detail, but organized and presented in a way that's not overwhelming and keeps the information digestible. You can't (or shouldn't) jump in and start a cat rescue just because you love cats. There are so many aspects related to logistical and financial planning and research that needs to be done in order to make your nonprofit thrive. To be honest I used to be a little skeptical of nonprofit consulting, but this book really makes it clear that so much work has to go on behind the scenes, and a consultant may just be the most efficient way to get your nonprofit running smoothly.
November 17, 2023
Let me start by clarifying that this is a fascinating resource capable of helping and guiding any kind of reader. The writing style is clear, simple to understand and addressed particularly to organizations wanting to improve their effectiveness.
The author's vast experience, knowledge and learning gained over the years are absolutely palpable page after page and it is imperative for me to say that anyone who sets their eyes on this book will finish it with a great deal of pleasure.
I was very engaged by the reading, and I liked the details included by Tawnia throughout the chapters, such as reasoning questions, small explanatory drawings and a very well-organized theory. All this account for her dedication to this interesting subject.
The author's vast experience, knowledge and learning gained over the years are absolutely palpable page after page and it is imperative for me to say that anyone who sets their eyes on this book will finish it with a great deal of pleasure.
I was very engaged by the reading, and I liked the details included by Tawnia throughout the chapters, such as reasoning questions, small explanatory drawings and a very well-organized theory. All this account for her dedication to this interesting subject.
November 18, 2023
A great tool!
It is a must read for everyone who wants to boost their nonprofit organization. Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them by Tawnia Wise is based on the author's experience of more than two decades working with nonprofits of all sizes and levels of sophistication.
Money is a difficult issue to deal with in nonprofit organizations, because making money is not the goal but it is necessary. The author develops a guide to help readers to deal with this point and avoid other common problems. It is simple to understand and can be very useful. I found the author's writing style honest and selfless. It is great to read and learn from someone with such experience!
It is a must read for everyone who wants to boost their nonprofit organization. Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them by Tawnia Wise is based on the author's experience of more than two decades working with nonprofits of all sizes and levels of sophistication.
Money is a difficult issue to deal with in nonprofit organizations, because making money is not the goal but it is necessary. The author develops a guide to help readers to deal with this point and avoid other common problems. It is simple to understand and can be very useful. I found the author's writing style honest and selfless. It is great to read and learn from someone with such experience!
November 20, 2023
Become a Nonprofit Pro by Tawnia Wise is a great guide that you should read. Wise's expertise shines as she navigates the intricacies of the nonprofit world, offering practical solutions to common challenges. What makes this book stand out is its hands on approach, Wise not only pinpoints pitfalls but provides actionable strategies to overcome them. Wise's writing is approachable and empowering, catering to both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the nonprofit scene. The real-world applicability sets this guide apart, turning theoretical advice into tangible solutions through relatable anecdotes and case studies. This book is really great, read it and find real solutions and advice with a clear and relatable approach.
November 29, 2023
"Become a Nonprofit Pro: Nine Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them" by Tawnia Wise is a comprehensive guide for nonprofits navigating the challenges of growth. The author draws from over two decades of experience, providing invaluable insights and practical advice to help organizations thrive. Her expertise can be seen in relatable case studies, cautionary tales, and professional tips, making this a must-read for both startup nonprofits and established ones. Tawnia Wise's passion for empowering others from challenging backgrounds adds depth and sincerity to her approach. While concise and informative, the book could delve deeper into certain topics. Overall, a valuable resource for enhancing a nonprofit's effectiveness and impact.
November 15, 2023
Become a Nonprofit Pro takes a clear look at what it takes to make a nonprofit organization successful. The book is aimed at nonprofit leaders at new organizations that are starting out. However, the author hopes that there are things of value to be learned from her book by anyone serving a nonprofit organization.
This book is written in a very understandable and well built up way with a useful glossary at the end of the book. Within the guide book’s pages, the author describes the nine most common pitfalls that nonprofit organizations can face and how best to avoid or overcome these.
Although I currently do not lead a nonprofit organization, I found this book very interesting.
This book is written in a very understandable and well built up way with a useful glossary at the end of the book. Within the guide book’s pages, the author describes the nine most common pitfalls that nonprofit organizations can face and how best to avoid or overcome these.
Although I currently do not lead a nonprofit organization, I found this book very interesting.
November 17, 2023
If you have or are working for a nonprofit organization and are looking to improve it or gain more knowledge in this area, this is the book for you. ''Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them'' was written by Tawnia Wise, an expert who has worked in this field for many years. In this book, the author brings us the nine obstacles where people who run this non-profit organization always make mistakes. I found the book useful, here you will find information and lessons that will help you improve and analyze your process within your work. This book also contains a link to tools and resources you can use.
November 17, 2023
Become a Nonprofit Pro by Tawnia Wise is aimed at those organizations, whether are newborn or has a long-time life, but they are in the startup phase. The goal is to make the nonprofits more competitive for funding and more effective in its mission.
From a wide experience in this field consulting, the author offers wise advice from the starting point of 9 common mistakes to avoid. In each of them, readers can find valuable information, helpful tips and approaches that will surely apply to the development or fundraising of different kind of nonprofits.
All in all, this is a great reading for founders, executive directors, board members and other nonprofit leaders.
From a wide experience in this field consulting, the author offers wise advice from the starting point of 9 common mistakes to avoid. In each of them, readers can find valuable information, helpful tips and approaches that will surely apply to the development or fundraising of different kind of nonprofits.
All in all, this is a great reading for founders, executive directors, board members and other nonprofit leaders.
November 18, 2023
Tawnia Wise is the writer of “Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them”, a book about fundraising and leadership. The author shares lessons learned from more than two decades working with nonprofits of all sizes.
In her explanation, she exposes themes and myths that will help organizations overcome any difficulty. What I liked most is that it is super concise and detailed in its explanation, and it also opens up a range, thinking about different possible situations.
I definitely recommend this book to all those who are in charge of non-profit organizations, as it has valuable information and concise information.
In her explanation, she exposes themes and myths that will help organizations overcome any difficulty. What I liked most is that it is super concise and detailed in its explanation, and it also opens up a range, thinking about different possible situations.
I definitely recommend this book to all those who are in charge of non-profit organizations, as it has valuable information and concise information.
November 19, 2023
Become a Nonprofit Pro: 9 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them was written by author Tawnia Wise. In her book, she talks about the start-up phases of companies and how it can act as a turning point for a company's employees and the overall turnover in terms of investments and monetary benefits. It is a guide to avoid common conjectures surrounding new businesses and establishing firms. The author's experience resonates throughout this book, her wisdom as a consultant makes it even more authentic and intriguing. The clarity of thought, her personal anecdotes, and facts about the industry are fascinating to read. If you're an enthusiast of this genre, then just go for it.
November 20, 2023
amazing book
Wise, a Certified Fundraising Executive, not only imparts essential lessons but does so in an engaging manner. The incorporation of case studies, cautionary tales, and pro tips provides a practical and relatable guide. Whether you're launching a new nonprofit or have decades of service under your belt, "Become a Nonprofit Pro" is a roadmap to making your organization more competitive, effective, and impactful. Tawnia Wise's transformative approach to nonprofit consulting shines through, making this book a must-read for those striving to bring positive change to the world.
Wise, a Certified Fundraising Executive, not only imparts essential lessons but does so in an engaging manner. The incorporation of case studies, cautionary tales, and pro tips provides a practical and relatable guide. Whether you're launching a new nonprofit or have decades of service under your belt, "Become a Nonprofit Pro" is a roadmap to making your organization more competitive, effective, and impactful. Tawnia Wise's transformative approach to nonprofit consulting shines through, making this book a must-read for those striving to bring positive change to the world.
November 17, 2023
This is a great resource guide for nonprofit management. I appreciated the different things one should think about when it comes to managing nonprofit and not just making sure you "return a profit," but rather, making sure you're keeping your folks! There's always so many different things to think about, and I appreciate that this book really tries to cover everything. It never hurts to always learn something new when it comes to nonprofits. If you're wanting to learn more about how they work or interested in running one, then this book is for you!
September 7, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Become a Nonprofit Pro was a detailed exploration into the administration and fundraising side of nonprofit management. As someone who has worked in nonprofits at both the program and admin side of operations-- I was impressed with Tawnia Wise and the 9 common pitfalls you detailed in her book! Great read for anyone involved or wanting to become involved in nonprofits.
Become a Nonprofit Pro was a detailed exploration into the administration and fundraising side of nonprofit management. As someone who has worked in nonprofits at both the program and admin side of operations-- I was impressed with Tawnia Wise and the 9 common pitfalls you detailed in her book! Great read for anyone involved or wanting to become involved in nonprofits.
November 29, 2023
A must read
This book isn't just for novices; it's a guiding light for established nonprofits too. Wise's passion for uplifting others shines through her writing. Her blend of strategy and tactical advice resonates, empowering organizations to elevate their impact.
The only reason it's a 4-star and not 5-star recommendation is that it slightly leans toward startups. Nevertheless, it's a must-read for those navigating the nonprofit world's complexities.
This book isn't just for novices; it's a guiding light for established nonprofits too. Wise's passion for uplifting others shines through her writing. Her blend of strategy and tactical advice resonates, empowering organizations to elevate their impact.
The only reason it's a 4-star and not 5-star recommendation is that it slightly leans toward startups. Nevertheless, it's a must-read for those navigating the nonprofit world's complexities.
December 3, 2023
Helpful and great information
I've had to bookmark so many items, I'll probably go back and read the book again. The only reason for not giving 5 stars is because there is so much information and not a lot behind it making it more difficult for me to remember. 4 stars because there is so much information.
I've had to bookmark so many items, I'll probably go back and read the book again. The only reason for not giving 5 stars is because there is so much information and not a lot behind it making it more difficult for me to remember. 4 stars because there is so much information.
December 28, 2023
Although I have no interest or intentions of starting a non-profit business or organization I read this book with great interest. The book was very well laid out and kept my interest to learn something I had only thought was for the need to know groups. I have a close friend who is interested in starting a non-profit read this and hope to update this with their success in the future.
February 13, 2024
so helpful I recommend for anyone working for a nonprofit
So much that I didn’t’ t know..so much helpful , reality oriented information. Presented clearly, succinctly Plus they have online workshops. More help is on the internet. I appreciate and thank this book and Goodreads for this book
So much that I didn’t’ t know..so much helpful , reality oriented information. Presented clearly, succinctly Plus they have online workshops. More help is on the internet. I appreciate and thank this book and Goodreads for this book
October 31, 2023
Full of practical information to make your nonprofit a successful one
November 15, 2023
avoid pitfalls
Been in a business for a long time this book has prayed a big role to identify some common pitfalls and how avoid them easily.
Been in a business for a long time this book has prayed a big role to identify some common pitfalls and how avoid them easily.
December 9, 2023
Wish it were more in depth
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews