Volunteering seems a pastime of many, whether committed to a particular cause or perhaps as seniors wanting to donate time to favourite organizations. In her very readable and well organized book, Doreen Pendgracs walks readers through the pleasures of volunteer boards as well as some of the pitfalls of serving on them Her book covers matters that might occur on small boards or larger ones and includes information on matters like fiscal responsibility and how to deal with sensitive issues that could arise/ Pendgracs has thoroughly researched the topic and offers advice to potential board members in a very objective fashion. This book is a must read for people who are currently volunteering or are considering doing so in the future

A new and invaluable resource to help anyone in the not-for-profit sector. Before You Say Yes: A Guide to the Pleasures and Pitfalls of Volunteer Boards, by Doreen Pendgracs of Matlock, Manitoba is an easy to read, practical, and insightful look into so many issues relevant to not-for-profit boards. The book contains innumerable practical resources, and delves into issues as diverse as directors and officers insurance, disaster planning, fiduciary responsibilities, ethical decision making, individual compatibility with boards, financial obligations and compensation, and dealing with difficult people, as well as many other issues.

I truly love "Before you Say Yes"! With the upcoming Toastmasters season quickly approaching along with my Presidency role, this book is helping me to become an exceptional leader. The first few pages immediately captured my interest by "hanging your hat at the door". The many times I was on a board, it was a show of intelligence, education, and know how. Immediately, I felt connected to the author and that she obviously has experience in volunteering and whatever she was going to share in the upcoming pages would be accurate.
I would not limit this book to anybody just on a board, but anyone who is a VOLUNTEER, PLANS EVENTS, or ON A COMMITTEE.
The book is quick, easy to read, easy to comprehend, and main points are in list form. I read the book over a month ago and still have the information retained in my mind. I find that some books you have your "aha" moment while you read it and then forget... not the case with "Before You Say Yes"!

Doreen's book offers a comprehensive look at what it means to join and serve on a board - including finding a board that's right for you, board etiquette, and preparing for difficult situations. Having read "Before You Say Yes," I feel better prepared for my role as a director for the Toronto chapter of the Professional Writers Association of Canada. Doreen's succinct and well-written book is a reference that I will likely refer to again and again.