Synopses & Reviews
Charitable giving is on the rise in America. Despite the lingering effects of the economic downturn, Americans continue to give generously of their time, talent, and money – more than $335 billion in 2013, a 4.4% increase from 2011. What’s more, the bulk of that charitable giving – 72% – came not from large foundations or corporations, but from individuals making small gifts. For those with passion for a cause and a generous spirit, it’s vitally important that they leverage their gift in the right way in order to have the greatest impact possible.
In her first book EVERY GIFT MATTERS (Greenleaf; May 2015), Carrie Morgridge shares inspiring stories of powerful gifts in action showing readers how to turn the act of giving into a vehicle for positive change. Drawing on 15 years of experience supporting causes that align with her passions through gifts, Morgridge demonstrates how a smart strategy, high expectations, a deep network, and hands-on personal involvement will ensure that one’s gift is compounded over time to have the biggest impact possible.
“Each person and every gift can make a difference,” writes Morgridge. “Whoever you are, no matter how much or how little you have, your gift matters. The smallest, seemingly unimportant, donation can transform a life. And the best news is that giving transforms two lives: the one who receives and the one who gives.”
Through her role as Vice President of The Morgridge Family Foundation, Morgridge has learned what works – and what doesn’t – when it comes to giving. She argues that in order to ensure meaningful and lasting change, a gift must be more than simply a grant of money. The giver must assess whether the program is the right fit, work hand-in-hand with the key leaders on strategy, develop a plan for making the endeavor sustainable, and ensure that their gift can be leveraged to have a bigger impact on the community. By sharing real-life stories of how this hands-on approach to giving has transformed lives – including her own – Morgridge inspires others to believe that they can also make a difference in their community, no matter the size of their gift.
Synopsis
Every dollar can always work harder.Every Gift Matters not only teaches philanthropists how to make informed decisions to maximize their impact on the world, it shows nonprofit leaders how to attract donors and keep them interested in investing. This is the chance to get a true inside view of what foundation directors are looking for when considering making a grant.
Carrie Morgridge takes readers into the heart of the world that is philanthropy. Every Gift Matters is at once conversational and direct—with specific tips on how to make the best decisions possible and further illustrated through Morgridge’s personal experience.
In this heartwarming book, readers will learn:
-How to research opportunities for giving
-The importance of trust, understanding, and shared goals
-How to leverage your gift by donating to organizations that will seek matching funds or make your money work harder
-The glory of the ripple effect created by giving
-How to recognize novel ideas, revolutionary thinkers, and unique opportunites
The advice in Every Gift Matters is actionable, and the stories touching. Carrie Morgridge has a true gift for giving, and she seems to be thrilled to share it with others.
About the Author
Carrie Morgridge is vice president of the Morgridge Family Foundation and has completed multiple Ironman competitions. She and her husband, John, have headed the Morgridge Family Foundation for fifteen years.