Budrys puts empirical flesh on the bones of theory with lively, in-depth case studies of how nonprofit organizations operate, delving into their mission, history, structure, funding, and evaluation.

Woods Bowman, DePaul University

In the highly readable language of someone who has thoroughly investigated and understands her subject matter, Dr. Grace Budrys provides a robust introduction to the nonprofit sector for both proponents and critics and for those new to or conversant with this sector.

Susan M. Sanders, vice president of administration and planning professor of public policy, Saint Xavier University, Chicago

This book will make a valuable contribution to those in the nonprofit field who are interested in a framework that can be used to assess their own organizations and/or others that exist in the field. Students who are preparing for and seeking volunteer, internship, or employment opportunities in the nonprofit sector will find this book to be a helpful guide into that world. And, instructors should use it in prepping students for those experiences. In addition, this book could be useful to philanthropic entities who have longed for a readable, non jargon-ladden discussion of nonprofit organizations of varying types that seek them out for funding.

Michael Bennett, DePaul University

Budrys' readable, sociological presentation of the nonprofit sector is one of the best I’ve read. She escapes the managerial perspective that dominates most research on nonprofit organizations. She has a strong theoretical voice, gives a thorough review of the literature, and offers an accurate statement of key ideas. This would be a fine book to use in an undergraduate or beginning graduate course.

Carl Milofsky, Bucknell University; former editor, Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly

In a very readable prose, Budrys shows how the case study method can be employed to effectively illustrate pressures faced by U.S. non-profits to sustain themselves and pursue their missions within an increasingly competitive fundraising environment. Through a careful comparative analysis of nonprofits social service providers, the reader is given a window into the primary vulnerabilities and challenges faced by these organizations as they struggle to deliver services, fundraise, and evaluate themselves. How Nonprofits Work poses critical questions about the stability and future of a central institution of the U.S. social safety net.

Howard Rosing, DePaul University

Budrys (sociology, DePaul Univ.) provides a highly accessible presentation of nonprofits that should appeal to libraries collecting for social work programs. The author's use of bullet points, enumeration, and plain language will be welcome to social work students who typically read works that are far more theoretical during their studies. Budrys makes use of annual reports, websites, and "extensive interviews," Overall, a pragmatic and focused set of case studies sure to engage readers. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above

Choice Reviews