Because I was trained as a writer (the Dr. in front of my name comes from a hard-fought Ph.D. in the humanities), I knew four months into what I call the 'Modest Needs Experience' that Modest Needs would end up as the subject of a book.
I've always thought it was funny that most things in life end up - well, not quite like you imagined them, but always for the best. Case in point: this book. Personally, I'd always imagined that any book about Modest Needs would be about how Modest Needs has changed me as much as it's changed the people who *are* Modest Needs - our donors, and the people we've helped.
Or maybe, I thought, the book would be another 'Chicken Soup for the Soul,' full of inspiring stories about how 'small change,' simple acts of kindness, really do change lives (just have a look at the archives of our column 'Profiles in Courageous Generosity' - my favorite part of Modest Needs.)
The book I'm writing right now will certainly contain these elements. But they won't be the focus of the book.
Instead, I'm writing about what, over the years, I've learned are ten 'myths' about non-profit organizations that are widely held by the general public - and how those myths ultimately hurt both non-profits and the culture of 'giving' in general.
In writing this book, my goal is simple. I think non-profits, donors, and the people organizations like Modest Needs exist to serve will be able to do much better work in a world absent of these myths. And, speaking personally, I think the book's going to be a really fascinating read.
Anybody want to hear more, or should I just save it for the book?
I want to hear more because I think this book is going to be awesome. This site you have created is wonderful and you must have some wondeful gifts from God like some of the preachers who write do.. I personally like Joel Osteen. But I am telling you its in you and this book will be great. So tell us all you can I think I am sure what ever you are lead to write about will be a hit. Thanks again for your outstanding ideas and deeds. YOu made them come alive of course with Gods help. But you have worked hard and so many have been helped. When no one else cared. Thank you
Posted by: charlotte Jones | September 16, 2006 at 08:58 AM
I'd love to hear a couple of the myths, just to get an idea. I think it's an interesting premise, and you have a really unique take on the situation, with the history of the creation of Modest Needs.
Posted by: Ryan | September 16, 2006 at 01:04 PM
I would definitely like to hear more. As a non-profit in the virtual world of Second Life, I've already encountered one major bogus non-profit that dominates the scene (and shall go nameless). Can you say '80% overhead and the rest goes to political causes instead of research'?
On another topic, I mentioned Modest Needs in the brief sidebar about my order of mendicants, the Avatars of Change, that is slated for the first book about Second Life coming out soon. It's editor's discretion, and just a small sidebar, but I had to get word on my favorite charity out there.
May the Supreme Avatar Smile Upon You!
Br. Taras
Prelate, AOC, Second Life
Posted by: Taras Balderdash | September 18, 2006 at 07:28 AM
Definitely tell us more! Don't worry, I will certainly still buy a copy, even if you were to post the entirety!
Posted by: Joan Concilio | September 18, 2006 at 10:50 AM
I would be interested in the myths. One our family and friends likes to dispel and one you dispel with your "small change world of difference" is everyone can contribute to wonderful good even if they are not wealthy. I think one of the best ways of giving is automatically from your check each week. Sears offers that and it works out really well.
Posted by: Karen Ann Townsend | September 18, 2006 at 06:51 PM
I too would be interested in the myths. Having run a TINY Non Profit for 20+ years we have encountered problems in the RUMORS area. Damage Control then kicks in and our families may have to wait for us to stay on task for them. It's so hard to not let it make you just want to throw in the towel. Yet we never have. We then are bogged down dispelling and proving wrong anything that one person has "put out there" to keep our integrity in tack. No matter what reason a person could have to try to make us look bad, it was painful, to be lied about, and the fear that future and current donations would or could cease would be a terrible end to a lifetime of self sacrifice on the parts of my family and volunteers. Since we are so small I wonder how many Myths hinder our ability present day, and in the years past to help many families find what they are in need of. I know of a couple of myths about non profits, the large ones, but am very curious to see what else is out there!
Can't wait to read your book!
Sincerely,
Loretta Shortman
Director OHO NJ
Posted by: Loretta Shortman | September 20, 2006 at 09:44 AM