The Author: Bill Somerville
The Premise: Somerville, a famed philanthropist (or so says the back of the book anyway) offers up his thoughts on the current state of philanthropy and what needs to be done to change it--to make it better that is. And stat.
What I thought: First of all, disclaimer: I was asked to read this book for work (what's that? Oh yes, I'm employed (she says nonchalantly, casually flipping her hair)). I have recently acquired a job at a foundation and read this one as a sort of preparatory glance into the philanthropic world of today. I liked it.
Somerville is refreshingly frank and even better writes some clear, non-pretentious prose. He draws almost incessantly on personal experiences, and thus, in my view anyway, perfectly qualifies himself to be making the kinds of sweeping recommendations he ventures to offer. It's clear that he has a very good understanding of the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors and has put some serious thought into reform and innovation.
My favorite proposition from Grassroots is the idea of micro-grants or discretionary funds from foundations. Somerville relates several episodes in which his foundation was able to make a tangible difference in their community through small and immediate contributions. His examples went something like this: judge calls Somerville and tells him about a troubled youth in his courtroom, troubled youth loves art, Somerville provides a $50 grant to get troubled youth into an art program and buy supplies, troubled youth becomes untroubled, goes to college, and changes the world--prison system saves $50,000 a year and society has one more productive individual. Badda bing, badda boom. I really love this idea of readily available resources and rational, quick decision making. It just makes sense to me.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in philanthropy or foundation work. It's a great primer and I can only assume a good reference for those already in the trenches.
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