About The Book

In The Spirit of Philanthropy, Frank Pisch dissects fundraising, showing how it is both an art and a science. Pisch, the founder of The Compass Group, uses his knowledge in the field to give philanthropists an understanding of best practices for fundraising. Building a great team, finding the best volunteers, creating a Gifts Chart, and more are discussed in this easy-to-read guide. From the early stages of a fundraising campaign to the days after it’s done, The Spirit of Philanthropy will be your blueprint for raising money for your nonprofit and more.

About The Author

As founder of The Compass Group, FRANK PISCH has more than forty years of results-driven fundraising experience, securing more than $4 billion in philanthropic support for nonprofits. Frank has advanced the missions of hundreds of organizations through capital campaigns, major gift fundraising, strategic planning, and fundraising counsel.

Previously, Frank worked at national consulting firm Ketchum, Inc., Berry College in Georgia, the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges, and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. He is also a CASE Industry Advisory Council Member.

Frank holds a master’s degree from Antioch New England Graduate School and bachelor’s from the University of Connecticut School of Education.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Advantage Books (April 4, 2023)
  • ISBN13: 9781642255485

Browse Related Books

Raves and Reviews

“Our national nonprofit has been transformed by incorporating the fundraising practices and principles taught to our board and staff by Frank Pisch and The Compass Group. As a result, we have evolved from an organization that at first struggled to fundraise to one that is self-reliant and confident, staying relevant to changing times. How wonderful it is to see these principles compiled in a compelling storytelling format in The Spirit of Philanthropy.”
— Grace Lee
Executive Director, National Park Trust

“Through his stories and summaries, Frank Pisch distills the enduring truths about fundraising. The Spirit of Philanthropy will be both needed and appreciated for decades. Having raised funds as a CEO for over twenty five years, I can attest to the wisdom of Frank’s general approach and specific recommendations on philanthropy. Well done and thank you!”
— Tom Kiernan
President and CEO, American Rivers

“Frank Pisch keeps his promise to tell stories from his forty-year career as a fundraising consultant to nonprofit leaders. His stories are highly informative and inspiring. They engage us in the importance of building relationships and ask critical questions that must be answered before and during a campaign. Frank adds a model of blending science and art that leads to success. Other sections of The Spirit of Philanthropy, such as ‘Building a Team’ and ‘The Perfect Ask,’ add to our learning in fascinating ways. We gain further from Frank’s reflections on his leadership of the company he founded nearly thirty years ago. It’s easy to grasp why The Compass Group is such a nationally valued consulting firm.”
— Edward J. Tomey
Leadership Consultant and Coach

“In The Spirit of Philanthropy, a highly engaging narrative, Frank Pisch brings into clear focus both the art and science of fundraising. Drawing upon his four decades as a leader in fundraising consulting, Pisch weaves together strategies, anecdotes, wise counsel, and, yes, spirit to offer nonprofit leaders ‘bread for the journey’ as they position their organizations for robust financial health.”
— Jim Leonard
Head of School, Santa Fe Preparatory School, 1999 - 2020

“For nonprofit leaders, this book will become the outstanding and trusted reference for fundraising as you navigate the ever-changing world of philanthropy. Frank Pisch brings the values of this business to life in a realistic and simplified way that speaks from the heart even as he provides the technical information to help us all succeed in fundraising for our organizations. It’s all here: the why and the how.
— Lisa Darling
Head of School, The Awty International School

The Spirit of Philanthropy, which is infused with Frank’s warm-hearted and intelligent approach to fundraising, provides great insight into how to form relationships with donors and what it takes for donors to make a meaningful difference. In an increasingly competitive and complex philanthropic world, Frank provides the guiding light.”
— Greg Avis
Managing Partner, Bangtail Partners; Philanthropist and Impact Investor

Resources and Downloads

High Resolution Images

BACK TO TOP