Exposing the Elephants (PDF)

Go Beyond "Business As Usual" with Your Nonprofit

"At last--the 'real truth' about nonprofit management! In Exposing
the Elephants, Wilcox reveals the 'pesky pachyderms' that block our
way to full effectiveness. How often have we grumbled that 'just
because you're a [insert profession here], it doesn't mean you know
how to run a nonprofit'? With clarity, passion, and sly humor,
Wilcox validates that perspective and many others--but doesn't let
us get away with just accepting the presence of the elephant in the
room. Wilcox summarizes complex issues using recognizable examples
and then offers sensible strategies for resolving them. Ultimately,
she gives us permission to do the right thing(s). I love this
book--and I can't wait to start implementing the 'elephant
solutions'! "

--Nancy Perkin Beaumont, CAE, Executive Director, Society of
American Archivists

"Before I finished reading Exposing the Elephants, I met with my
key staff to talk about what we must change. I also shared what I
learned from reading the book with a friend who sits on several
different types of boards. Wilcox says it like it is--and it needs
to be said--in every nonprofit organization."

--Julie Donovan, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity, Lake
County, Illinois

"A remarkably candid, fresh, and witty analysis of the challenges
inherent in managing nonprofits. Insightful and pragmatic solutions
to overcoming the 'white elephants' so prevalent in the nonprofit
culture. A 'must read' for every nonprofit CEO and board
member."

--Dick Yingst, President & CEO, Financial Managers Society,
Chicago, Illinois

"Pam Wilcox is willing to say the things that nonprofit
professionals often do not wish to hear. She reveals through clear
language and flowing style the significant barriers that nonprofits
face and need to remove for not just success but also excellence.
Unlike many authors who point out what is wrong with nonprofits,
Wilcox shows us the way to tackle our most intractable issues and
move to excellence. This book should be read by any and everyone
involved in the nonprofit sector."

--Katrina S. Rogers, PhD, Associate Dean, Research and Practice
Director, Center for Innovation in the Nonprofit Sector, Fielding
Graduate University