As fall beckons upon us and we feel the air start to cool just a bit, there’s no better time to curl up with a good book and a cup of pumpkin spice coffee. Since we are nearing the end of the year, this is also the perfect time to reflect on choices we have made, challenges we have faced, and goals we have yet to achieve. Volunteering is one of those goals we all hope to attain, but sometimes don’t get around to. Below is a great reading list for fall to get you in the philanthropic spirit! Enjoy!
1. No Greater Love, by Mother Theresa & Thomas Moore. This wonderful book is co-written by the mother of altruism herself. She shares wonderful tips on how to show others love, kindness, and generosity.
2. The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr., edited by Clayborn Carson. An epic account of Dr. Martin Luther King’s Revolutionary life of love and his non-violent path to change. This book weaves together many of Dr. King’s speeches, writings, and photographs for a powerful depiction of his life.
3. Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson. Greg was a lonely mountain climber who has built schools in some of the most dangerous places on earth. He is living proof that one man can change the world.
4. The Long Walk to Freedom, by Nelson Mandela. No words are needed to preface the life of this man who has given much of his life to the cause of peace.
5. The Teacher Wars, by Dana Goldstein. In this wonderful tale of her experiences as a teacher, Dana tackles the tough subjects of our educational system. She gives some very crucial insight about the lives of these modern day heroes.
6. Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life, by John Lee Anderson. Although some of his methods were controversial, Che had a significant impact on the impoverished community of Latin America. He was martyred in his quest for a society based on moral statutes rather than materialism.
7. I’m Proud of You: My Friendship with Fred Rogers, by Tim Madigan. Tim was a renowned author at the top of his game, yet he was spiraling downward into a deep depression. It was then he met a beloved friend, Mr. Rogers, whose sincere love helped guide him to the path of wholeness. I had the pleasure of hearing Tim speak recently, and I’m sure his book will change your life for the better.
We hope these books will ignite a fire in you to help within your local community and also know that as one person, you truly can make all the difference in the world. Happy Reading!
-Maria Montes, Volunteer Coordinator
