Horatio Alger Association Publishes New Book, 'Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great'

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals and encouraging youth to pursue their dreams through higher education, today announced the release of its latest book titled, "Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great."  This publication is the third installment of the organization's self-published series, "An Investment in America's Future," which focuses on best practices in nonprofit governance and the importance of philanthropy and volunteering in the United States.

"Thirty years ago, Horatio Alger Association made a commitment to not only establish a nonprofit scholarship program that was funded by our Members, but also to help students who have overcome significant challenges in their young lives," said David Sokol, chairman of Horatio Alger Association who also contributed to the foreword of "Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great."  "Yet, to successfully accomplish such ambitious goals, we knew we needed to strive for excellence in every aspect of our organization.  The traits outlined in this book, along with author Brian Foss' expertise, have been instrumental in helping Horatio Alger Association to reach our goals.  We are proud to present this book as we believe it serves to reinforce the enormous positive impact that nonprofits can have on Americans."

Nonprofit organizations are making increasingly significant contributions to society, enriching the quality of life for many U.S. citizens and proving to millions that the American Dream is still attainable.  "10 Traits That Make Nonprofits Great" provides insight for readers who are selecting charities in which to become involved.  If the nonprofit possesses the qualities outlined in the book, volunteers and donors can be sure that their contributions will be wisely invested in carrying out the mission of the organization.

"With 1.5 million philanthropic organizations spending $1.65 trillion annually in the U.S., there are limitless options for Americans who want to become involved in the nonprofit sector," said Brian E. Foss, author of "Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great."  "Because of this, though, it is often difficult to determine where to invest both time and dollars.  This book is a guideline for those trying to decide which charities to support, while also serving as a benchmark for nonprofits striving to improve their governance practices.  By working towards these goals, good organizations can transform into great ones."

As Foss illustrates in the book, nonprofits that are truly "great" each possess the following ten traits:

1. An important, powerful mission and a passionate, motivated leader.
2. Focus on a few things, choosing quality over quantity.
3. Can explain what they do – and show measurable results and outcomes.
4. Develop multiple, diverse funding sources.
5. Continuously renew the organization by examining what is effective and what is not.
6. Have board members who want to participate and give generously.
7. Understand who needs to know them by effectively identifying audiences.
8. Know where they are going – they have a vision for the future and a strategic plan to achieve goals.
9. Recognize when to ask for donations and how to appropriately thank gift-givers.
10. Are committed to excellence and dedicated to being the best that they can be.

With 40 years of executive experience, "Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great" author, Brian E. Foss, is a consultant to CEOs of philanthropic organizations and works closely with Horatio Alger Association.  He helps nonprofits ensure that its missions, programs and services reflect best practices and that its leaders are employing forward-looking strategies.  Foss has also written two other books published by the Association titled, "Investing in People and Communities" and "Governing Effective Nonprofits."

To download a copy of "Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great," please visit https://www.horatioalger.org/publications.cfm.

About Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans:

Founded in 1947, the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc. fulfills its mission of honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals who have succeeded in spite of adversity and of encouraging young people to pursue their dreams through higher education. The Horatio Alger Association supports students through annual undergraduate and graduate need-based scholarships and mentoring programs across the United States and Canada. Since 1984, the Association has awarded more than $100 million in college scholarships to deserving young people.  For more information, please visit www.horatioalger.org.

CONTACT:

Meg Kane

484-385-2938 (office)

[email protected]

SOURCE Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.horatioalger.org/