In Donor-Centered Leadership Penelope Burk tackles one of our most frustrating and costly problems for not-for-profits – the high turnover rate of staff and the financial toll it takes. In plain language, backed by compelling research with over 12,000 fundraisers, board members, CEOs, and donors, Burk reveals how not-for-profits can raise much more money by bringing staff attrition under control.

While the book speaks directly to decision-makers, Donor-Centered Leadership is also an essential resource for fundraisers at any level, including development staff working in or aspiring to management and leadership positions. Burk puts real numbers to the coming exodus of senior fundraisers who are on the verge of retirement. She offers a win-win solution that capitalizes on young workers' eagerness for more responsibility and earlier promotion.

Donor-Centered Leadership exposes mistaken beliefs and out-of-date practices that make it harder for fundraisers to raise money and much easier for them to move on. And it goes further to examine an issue sitting just below the surface – the role that leadership volunteers play in fundraising. Burk presents a compelling case for focusing board members' attention on the things they do best and which donors say will unleash their philanthropy at new, higher levels.

Written in a clear and humor-infused style, Burk draws readers through a narrative punctuated with compelling research data and real-life stories that inspire. 

About Penelope Burk

Penelope Burk is an author, researcher and mentor celebrated for important innovations in modern-day fundraising.