The Ambassador's Journey: A Parable about Nonprofit Board Leadership

by Brian Brandt, Ashley Kutach

What happens when a new board member finally finds his purpose? Chris Stevens is about to find out.When Chris’s boss talks him into joining the board of Travis County Cares, he’s reluctant to say the least. He’s never met a homeless person, much less helped a nonprofit work with them. To his surprise, he soon finds himself engaging with other board members and being inspired by the executive director to serve his community in ways he never thought possible. This leadership parable helps nonprofits accomplish their mission by inspiring board members to be more engaged and reap more enjoyment from investing their time. Written as a fictional story by seasoned leaders in the nonprofit world, this book gives a fresh take on how to guide board members to be enthusiastic Ambassadors for their organization. It addresses key questions do I really make a difference through my board service? What does my organization need from me? How do I go beyond just going through the motions? The end of each chapter has prompts designed for individual and group discussion. Bonus material also includes insightful questions for executive directors and board chairs, along with a sample board matrix, recruiting and onboarding checklists, and more.

164 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2021

Reviews

[Antonio Martinez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was reeled in from the very beginning. The story line was quick and catchy. I current sit on my first board of directions for a literacy organization and I am thrilled to go back and share how this book outlined the “Ambassador” part of being a part of a board.

I’m surprised I didn’t catch that at first. This book flowed the journey of what being an ambassador for an organization is about. How to “promote” a good cause.

I absolutely love it and give it 4 Stars!

[John Landes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this parable! The authors do a great job giving you a look and feel as to how real life situations and people can positively improve your Board, or be a distraction. Helpful reading for anyone interested in joining a Board or currently serving one.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Business parable style story that helps layout what it means to be a good board member in a nonprofit. Great for those new or unsure what it means to be an ambassador.

[Amber · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did not get interested in the characters enough to care about what happened