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OUR VERDICT...GET IT!
Alan Harrison presents a radical new vision for nonprofit arts organizations in this nonfiction work.
“Drawing on his 30 years of experience in nonprofit theater, the author breaks down, in easy-to-understand language, the United States tax code and the ways in which nonprofit groups misconstrue their responsibilities as a 501(C)(3): “The purpose of nonprofit arts organizations is not about… the production of art, but the production of impact using the arts as tools.” Harrison also discusses the toxic influences within these organizations, including the lie of subscription revenue, glory-chasing artistic directors, and overly-pampered big-money donors. The author proposes pragmatic reforms placing focus on better outreach to the neighborhoods these organizations operate in. Better diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) integration both on the boards and staffs, along with transparency regarding both donations and pay, would increase hospitality and impact, per Harrison. He argues that fostering diverse voices would help institutions to better understand the specific issues that require a nonprofit’s help—be that aiding the houseless, combating gun violence, or raising awareness about the opioid crisis—while putting on shows that both engage and matter to the community. The author is aware that his advice will be seen as controversial and pulls no punches as he explains the problems he views as inherent to nonprofit arts organizations. Sarcastic asides are common, and Harrison has seemingly never met an analogy or metaphor that he didn’t love, but he also emphasizes the importance of data and gives specific advice. Some of this work’s progressive ideas, like giving away tickets or divesting from a theater space, could be game-changing.
While forceful, even the harshest commentary is not presented prescriptively, and it clearly comes from a place of love for the subversive and utopian possibilities of the arts.”
-- Kirkus Reviews
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"EASY, ENGAGING, AND COMPREHENSIVE! OUR VERDICT: GET IT!"
“The author has extensive experience with theater companies, including productions at Lincoln Center Theater, Pittsburgh Public Theater, Los Angeles Theatre Center, Seattle Repertory Theatre, and the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, and he puts that experience to good use here. Harrison contends that the organizational structure of nonprofit boards should be reexamined and notes that leadership strategies that may have worked in the 1970s aren’t viable today. It’s time to start from scratch, he says. After chapters about why boards need to change and the necessity of effective fundraising, the author gets to the crux of his book, which consists of the five responsibilities of nonprofit arts boards: defining a mission, fundraising, choosing an executive director, recruiting other board members, and advocating for the organization. He discusses the importance of studying other organizations and understanding how a board should govern. Finally, Harrison acknowledges that any list of best practices, including his own, may not work for all organizations, and one’s community’s needs should take precedence over all else. He has an easy, engaging style and does more than complain about nonprofit boards (although there’s plenty to complain about): He provides a usable blueprint for how to start, reconfigure, and run a board. “Harrison’s Rules of Order” covers how to conduct efficient meetings and outlines six rules (e.g., “Don’t waste the money you’ve budgeted for board meetings by talking about items that you cannot change”) that will help any arts board meeting—and other boards, as well—run more smoothly. Also included are exercises for boards to tackle together, which are sometimes based on real-life situations. This is a great starting point for any organization looking to run more smoothly.
A comprehensive, actionable guide for rethinking nonprofit organizations, especially their boards.”
-- Kirkus Reviews
"EXCEPTIONAL! PERSUASIVE!"
“With over three decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Alan’s commitment to
driving charitable impact within the arts community is truly commendable. His insightful and thought-provoking writings underscore his dedication to uplifting the underserved and
marginalized, with an unwavering focus on equity and meaningful action. Alan’s ability to engage and captivate through his writing is a testament to his engrossing style and deep expertise. Having had the privilege to work alongside him, I’ve witnessed his remarkable talent in poking bears, challenging the status quo, and inciting positive change. His leadership acumen shines through as he navigates both large and small organizations, consistently demonstrating his capacity to galvanize teams towards mission-driven success. In a world where impactful communication is paramount, Alan’s unique approach to advocacy and his passion for transformation make him an invaluable asset to any mission-focused initiative. His transformative prowess and commitment to making a difference are truly remarkable.”
-- Mark Walmsley, FRSA FCIM, Arts & Culture Network
"A VISIONARY!"
“In the sea of voices championing for the arts, Alan Harrison’s voice is unmissable. I continue to be struck by his unparalleled passion and relentless pursuit of change within the nonprofit arts sector. His unpretentious and comical demeanor bring clarity of thought and a fearless commitment to issues like elitism, diversity, equity, and inclusion within arts organizations. Whether you admire or challenge his viewpoints, Alan’s persuasive influence cannot be easily dismissed. Perhaps his most significant impact is his ability to inspire those around him to entertain new perspectives and aim for a greater, more inclusive future.”
-- Sarah Hunt, Accelerate Social (Former General Manager, National Theatre of Great Britain)
"HE GETS IT!"
“I’ve been inspired by our conversations about nonprofit management as well as everything he’s written. He wants to make organizations better, more effective, and has the experience and wisdom to know how to do exactly that. I respect his work and learn something from him with every interaction.”
-- Cynthia Setel, Nonprofit Change Agent/Consultant
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