The Challenge of Change

by Philip Coltoff

Leadership strategies for not-for-profit executives and boards. An essential primer by the former director of one of America's most influential nonprofits.

125 pages, Paperback

First published October 12, 2006

About the author

Philip Coltoff is a national leader and innovator in the fields of social service and youth development. He led The Children's Aid Society in New York City from 1981 to 2005 and consults for many not-for-profits. He is also the Katherine W. and Howard Aibel Visiting Professor and Executive-in-Residence at New York University's Silver School of Social Work. He currently teaches "Executive Leadership in the Not-for-Profit Sector," a seminar series at NYU.

Reviews

[Jeff · Rating 2 out of 5]

Less a full book, this extended memorandum (21 out of about 140 pages are intro material) on non-profit leadership was nearly a waste of time up until its final 20 pages. That is, for someone such as myself, who's worked closely with an executive director of a NFP for a few years. Whom it might be perfect for, is for someone relatively inexperienced who is soon taking on such a role. This is a pretty sufficient outline of where they need to keep their attention.

My frustration reading peaked when I found something of note - and it was a citation of another person's (Truda C. Jewett) expertise. However, at the very end were a few gems of experience more akin to what I expected in a book from someone who had been a CEO for decades. My favorite of which was, "It is easier to grow than to manage the growth."

[Emily P · Rating 3 out of 5]

Useful, quick read about how to manage non profits effectively and to use the talents of your staff and Board of Directors to make real change in the community you aim to serve.

I appreciated the helpful reminders and suggestions on how to do the work you're passionate about in a way that keeps things client focused and relevant.