2025 Nonprofit Leader Reading Guide

Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality draws from his transformative experiences at New York City’s iconic restaurant, Eleven Madison Park, to explore how extraordinary acts of care and connection can turn ordinary interactions into unforgettable moments. For nonprofit leaders, this book offers invaluable insights on building deeper relationships with donors and partners. By embracing Guidara’s philosophy of going above and beyond, your organization can create meaningful moments that inspire loyalty and generosity. Unreasonable Hospitality reminds us that the human touch is the foundation of engagement, offering practical lessons on how your nonprofit can show genuine appreciation and leave a lasting impact on your supporters.

This approachable and insightful book is packed with practical tips to help leaders like you communicate more effectively. Shleyner breaks down the art of crafting messages that simplify complex causes and inspire action, whether through donor appeals, social media, or other outreach. By focusing on empathy and clarity, Very Good Copy empowers you and your team to connect deeply with your audience and create messages that truly resonate.

Marty Neumeier’s Zag is an essential read for nonprofit leaders looking to stand out in a crowded sector. Facing limited resources and increasing competition for donor attention, your nonprofit can benefit from Neumeier’s bold approach to solving problems in unexpected ways. His philosophy of being different rather than simply better is a game-changer, offering practical guidance for identifying unique opportunities and leveraging them for maximum impact. Adopting a “zag” mindset when everyone else is “zigging” can help your nonprofit position itself as forward-thinking and innovative, capturing the attention and support you need to thrive.

Stephen Wendel’s Designing for Behavior Change provides invaluable insights into the psychology of decision-making and how thoughtful design can influence user behavior. For mission-driven professionals, it’s a practical guide to creating donor experiences that inspire giving and foster lasting engagement. Wendel blends behavioral economics with design-thinking to demonstrate how even small changes—like simplifying donation processes or building trust through meaningful interactions—can yield significant results. By understanding what drives donor behavior, you and your team can craft strategies that not only attract new donors but also strengthen your relationships with existing supporters.

Leadership is about balancing results with relationships, and Kim Scott’s Radical Candor offers a practical guide for achieving this equilibrium. The book equips leaders like you with the tools to provide feedback that is both direct and compassionate—a vital skill for building trust and collaboration within tight-knit teams. For organizations navigating high-stakes challenges, Scott’s approach to fostering open communication and accountability can transform team dynamics. By embracing these principles, you can cultivate a culture where individuals thrive, relationships strengthen, and organizational outcomes improve.

Understanding the mindset of younger generations is essential for organizations looking to connect with the next wave of donors. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt is a primer for understanding the current state of the next leading generation, as it will eventually become the primary generation in your organization’s donor file. The book explores the impact of modern technology and shifting cultural dynamics on Gen Z and Millennials, offering valuable insights into their motivations and values. For mission-driven professionals, these lessons can inform messaging and strategies that resonate deeply with younger audiences. By addressing concerns like future uncertainty and prioritizing authenticity, you can build meaningful connections that position your nonprofit as trusted and relevant in an ever-evolving world.

Nonprofit leaders often face challenges in clearly defining and communicating their organization’s unique value, and April Dunford’s Obviously Awesome provides tools to solve that. This practical guide to brand positioning can help you pinpoint your nonprofit’s key differentiators and craft messaging that resonates deeply with your audience. For nonprofits, these lessons translate into more effective donor engagement and a stronger ability to stand out in a crowded space. Dunford’s focus on understanding audience needs ensures that organizations position their mission not just as relevant, but as essential.

Jobs to Be Done explains how audiences, including donors, select organizations and causes that fulfill important roles or solve meaningful problems in their lives. For social impact leaders, this perspective shifts the focus to understanding supporters’ motivations and designing campaigns, programs, or experiences that align with their “jobs.” Whether it’s providing a sense of purpose, creating social connections, or driving measurable impact, knowing the role your nonprofit plays can transform communication and engagement. Ulwick’s approach to understanding supporters’ motivations can help your organization build stronger connections and create lasting loyalty with your donors.

Building a thriving organizational culture starts with empowering leadership at every level, and Community of Leaders offers practical guidance for achieving this. The book explores how to foster collaboration, inspire meaningful change, and align your team around a shared mission. For organizations navigating tight resources and high expectations, it provides actionable insights on mentorship, accountability, and cultivating purpose. By creating a community of leaders, you can strengthen your organization’s capacity to overcome challenges and drive real, lasting impact.

Timing isn’t just important—it’s essential for creating meaningful impact in strategy, innovation, and fundraising. Daniel Pink’s When dives into the science of timing, offering insights and practical advice. Whether it’s launching a new initiative, planning a campaign, or energizing a team, Pink reveals how understanding the natural rhythms of decision-making can lead your nonprofit to better results. With thoughtful strategies for structuring work and seizing key moments, this book equips you and your team with tools to make the most of every opportunity.