If ever most of us could use some uplifting tonic following the Mug Shot Weekend, it’s now.  In fact, I’d argue we really need a double dose.

Thus, today’s help-us-heal and lift up our sight’s elixir.

It’s been 15 years ago this month since the indomitable Harvey McKinnon and his co-author Azim Jamal released their classic The Power of Giving: How Giving Back Enriches Us All. It quickly became a #1 best seller in Canada on Amazon.  Then #4 on Amazon in the USA, #1 on Barnes & Noble.  Translated into nine languages. It was a surprise hit in Indonesia (3 different editions) and won the Nautilus Gold Award for Books on Social Change.

Best of all, The Power of Giving is still in print and if it’s not on your library shelf or you haven’t read it, you really should—especially in these days given the multiple crises every one of us faces.

Heeding their own advice, the authors have donated all profits to charities.  But I’m not here just to praise Harvey and Jamal’s masterpiece. Rather it’s a potent Rx for what ails us and a practical and visionary guide that should remind and help you and you discover or re-discover the simple truth within its covers:  The more you give, the more you have.

In short, this is an inspiring yet practical book that provides a wealth of down-to-earth ideas, exercises, and real-life stories that will reveal to you and every the unique gifts each of us has to give.  Not just money, but importantly kindness, ideas, advice, attention and –most importantly –HOPE.

Known side effects when you give any of the above: better mental health for fundraisers, more positive attitudes among  and toward donors and probably even better job prospects.

BUT…, as the direct response tv commercials say, “That’s not all! There’s more!”

FAST FORWARD 15 YEARS

This month – right now,  in 2023—Harvey is back with a much needed booster—The Healthy Nonprofit.

Whether you’re a budding fundraiser, a gnarled and cynical veteran fundraiser, a  board member or volunteer I’m sure of one trait all Agitator  readers possess—you’re someone who wants to make a difference.

Having savored, underlined, and dog-eared it, I promise Harvey’s book will inspire you. Each turn of ta page will remind you that hope, determination, and resilience can help you achieve your goals and dreams. And you’ll recognize that you too have the ability to make a meaningful impact in your community and beyond.

Filled with thought-provoking messages from some of the world’s greatest thinkers, activists, and visionaries—and yes, fundraiser whom you will recognize—The Healthy Nonprofit is a must-read for anyone who cares about motivation, success, and purpose.

AND….it’s tailor made for those Agitator readers staring at blank PowerPoint, working on a speech that needs an inspiring touch, to help tell your stories and create opportunities for people to support your cause and drive your mission forward,  or simply looking for a private hit to lift your spirits.

Agitator readers are familiar with many of Harvey’s other books, many of which offer practical and proven advice and guidance:

• The 11 Questions Every Donor Asks and the Answers All Donors Crave.
• Hidden Gold
• How to Create Lifelong Donors Through Monthly Giving. And of course,
• The Power of Giving

Another well-deserved  Agitator raise to Harvey for, once again, lifting our spirits.

Roger