Classic Book, Timely Thoughts

Robert L. Payton, in 1988, published an instant classic in philanthropy, Philanthropy: Voluntary Action for the Public Good. Now over twenty years old, the words are now more relevant than ever. Payton has been called by many as the "guru of contemporary American philanthropy." Part One of his book brings together his reflections on the place of voluntary action, association, and giving in American life. Part Two explores the most important problems and issues facing philanthropy. Bob writes that "philanthropy is simply essential to the survival of [America] as a free and open and democratic society."

I highly recommend placing this treatise on your reading list if you missed it before now. It should be mandatory reading for all students of the third sector, democratic society, and the place of nonprofit organizations in the world.