The Power of Pro Bono: A Book Review

A few months ago, John Cary, president and CEO of Next American City and former Public Architecture executive director, shared with me an advance digital copy of his new book The Power of Pro Bono. He asked me for an endorsement, which wound up on the back cover:

“The most inspiring and instructive books ever written about the impact of pro bono service.”

Now that I see the printed version of the book, released today, it is clear I was wrong. This is the most inspiring book published, not just about pro bono service, but about service and volunteerism PERIOD.

The publication captures 40 stories of pro bono service from both the perspective of the pro bono consultants (architects, in this case) and the clients. It offers stunning images that enable you to experience the awesome impact of the work. And perhaps most importantly, it begins with three powerful essays that make an incredible case for why access to good design is not a nice-to-have but is instead critical to a civil society.

And did I mention the book is gorgeous? It was designed by Paula Scher’s team over at Pentagram – pro bono, of course.

The book is being shipped October 1st, and all profit goes to support Public Architecture. Be sure to order a copy today.