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Building Unity: Leading a Non-Profit from Spark to Succession
Build an organization that is growth-minded, values-based, and innovative using the six steps to “responsible impact.”
At age 16, Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman, a professional b-boy (breakdancer), completed a school project that would grow to become a hip-hop-inspired mental health charity with global reach. Through a process of continuous discovery and reflection, Prosserman and his team grew UNITY to the point where it benefitted over a quarter of a million young people. In Building Unity, Prosserman breaks down the six steps to discovering “responsible impact” and building an organization that is growth-minded, values-based, and reflective of the needs of its community. Using stories of his own evolution, learning, and growth as a leader over 15 years, Prosserman parallels the creativity found in breakdancing with the innovation needed to build a sustainable non-profit.
Six steps to discovering “responsible impact”:
Spark is the inspiration, the big “why,” the motivation to wake up and do something. Build is the testing ground to clarify ideas, understand community needs, and challenge assumptions. Trust involves building the culture of your organization, leading by example, and hiring people with dreams. Trust sets the stage for growth by empowering awesome people. Grow is about finding the right size for your organization to create a responsible impact. Evolve is knowing when to step back so others can step forward by building a succession plan that leaves your organization in good hands. Re-Ignite is building from past experience and lighting the next spark within yourself.
At age 16, Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman, a professional b-boy (breakdancer), completed a school project that would grow to become a hip-hop-inspired mental health charity with global reach. Through a process of continuous discovery and reflection, Prosserman and his team grew UNITY to the point where it benefitted over a quarter of a million young people. In Building Unity, Prosserman breaks down the six steps to discovering “responsible impact” and building an organization that is growth-minded, values-based, and reflective of the needs of its community. Using stories of his own evolution, learning, and growth as a leader over 15 years, Prosserman parallels the creativity found in breakdancing with the innovation needed to build a sustainable non-profit.
Six steps to discovering “responsible impact”:
Spark is the inspiration, the big “why,” the motivation to wake up and do something. Build is the testing ground to clarify ideas, understand community needs, and challenge assumptions. Trust involves building the culture of your organization, leading by example, and hiring people with dreams. Trust sets the stage for growth by empowering awesome people. Grow is about finding the right size for your organization to create a responsible impact. Evolve is knowing when to step back so others can step forward by building a succession plan that leaves your organization in good hands. Re-Ignite is building from past experience and lighting the next spark within yourself.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2020
10 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 27, 2020
Note: this is a review of an advanced reading copy
What I probably loved the most about this truly educational and inspirational book was the intellect, honesty and pure heart put into telling the story of Mikey Prosserman's birthing a not-for-profit (while in high school!) and how it grew nationally and with chapters around the world. This is not your traditional business how-to book, but something that will speak to many different audiences.
Full disclosure, I have got to know Mikey over the past couple of years through a not-for-profit board we sit on. I am such a fan of Mikey for the knowledge and experience he brings to his role on the Board. After reading Building Unity, I have gained so much more respect for the man and his accomplishments as he lays out all of the good and the bad unabashedly in this book.
A truly powerful, educational, and engaging read. You will learn, you will cry, and you will want to meet and get to know this man to see if he is true - spoiler, he is.
What I probably loved the most about this truly educational and inspirational book was the intellect, honesty and pure heart put into telling the story of Mikey Prosserman's birthing a not-for-profit (while in high school!) and how it grew nationally and with chapters around the world. This is not your traditional business how-to book, but something that will speak to many different audiences.
Full disclosure, I have got to know Mikey over the past couple of years through a not-for-profit board we sit on. I am such a fan of Mikey for the knowledge and experience he brings to his role on the Board. After reading Building Unity, I have gained so much more respect for the man and his accomplishments as he lays out all of the good and the bad unabashedly in this book.
A truly powerful, educational, and engaging read. You will learn, you will cry, and you will want to meet and get to know this man to see if he is true - spoiler, he is.
January 23, 2024
Wonderful book for anyone leading a non-profit with thought-provoking questions to ask yourself.
However, jaded cynic that I am, I recognize the author glossed over some of the hardships and challenges of running a non-profit. Even his own battles with mental health almost sound cheerful. I also recognize that going into those things deeper could have sounded like whinging.
However, jaded cynic that I am, I recognize the author glossed over some of the hardships and challenges of running a non-profit. Even his own battles with mental health almost sound cheerful. I also recognize that going into those things deeper could have sounded like whinging.
December 6, 2022
Building Unity by Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman is a memoir / self-help book for those who are trying to build an organization. Some chapters resonated with me more than others, but I dog-eared a whole bunch of pages related to his fundraising ideas which I plan on reviewing more closely at work. There’s lots of valuable lessons for any kind of leader in here though, not just people in non-profits.
Book Summary
Prosserman had a difficult family life as a child, and turned to break dancing to keep him happy and healthy as he grew older and entered high school. For a class project he started a program for youth like him who were struggling, and Unity, a national charity, grew out of that project over the next two decades of his life. In this book he details the ups and downs of scaling up this organization into what it is today. He also weaves in stories from his personal life, and the leadership lessons he experienced, including his ongoing struggles with debilitating anxiety. Another lesson he focuses on is learning to trust his team. Before starting this charity he had never really had a ‘real’ job, so all these workplace lessons he came across the hard way. At one point, he admits to asking his staff to cc him on every single email (!!!), but once they stage an intervention and explain to him how this is a prime example of micromanaging, he realizes his mistake and eliminates that practice. He eventually leaves Unity, hiring his successor and moving on to do consulting work, but his passion for the organization and its mission is clearly evident throughout the book, explaining many of his over-the-top requests like the one I mentioned above.
My Thoughts
I’m still sorting through my thoughts on this one, having not quite decided how I feel about it overall. On one hand, I was frustrated with the scattered sequence of his story when he frequently jumps back and forward through time to illustrate a point. On the other hand, I found much to learn and enjoy as a fellow non-profit worker and fundraiser. In fact I’ve brought it to my office to record some notes and strategic ideas to help me reach my own fundraising goals. I was energized by his enthusiasm and can-do attitude, especially considering his success despite a lack of training or education in this sector. He left Unity at the ripe old age of 31, which for many, is just the beginning of their career. At that point, he had reached a high point that many won’t achieve through decades of dedication in an organization.
Not everyone is a born writer, although Prosserman is a strong communicator, the flow of his writing does need some work. A minor irritant was that his points were sometimes repeated, he would mention something as if it was news to the reader, even though he had talked about it earlier in the book. This is a small quibble, but as a reviewer I feel compelled to mention it. Aside from these editorial disappointments, his voice came through loud and clear, and I can tell he is an expert at demonstrating impact. And similar to other books in this genre, there were important parts of lessons highlighted in a yellow box – this signaled to the reader that we should pay extra attention to what’s written here, which was helpful to absorb more of the story he was telling. I also appreciated the fact that Prosserman revealed the mistakes his organization made, along with his own. Very few leaders are willing to pull back the curtain that far, and the story he told about a sponsorship event gone wrong made me cringe, but it was so valuable for me to read, as it was a lesson I need to keep in mind in my current role too.
Vulnerability is key to this text; it shines through in Prosserman’s personal stories, infusing this self-help book with relatable knowledge that many will be more willing to absorb, as it’s coming from a place of respect and modesty. I also haven’t mentioned the beautiful book design yet. It’s a paperback with flaps, and includes custom graphics of little characters break dancing their way through paragraphs. I love how this book doesn’t take itself too seriously, and for anyone working in an non-profit leadership role, they would certainly benefit from reading it.
To read the rest of my reviews, please visit my blog:
https://ivereadthis.com/
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Book Summary
Prosserman had a difficult family life as a child, and turned to break dancing to keep him happy and healthy as he grew older and entered high school. For a class project he started a program for youth like him who were struggling, and Unity, a national charity, grew out of that project over the next two decades of his life. In this book he details the ups and downs of scaling up this organization into what it is today. He also weaves in stories from his personal life, and the leadership lessons he experienced, including his ongoing struggles with debilitating anxiety. Another lesson he focuses on is learning to trust his team. Before starting this charity he had never really had a ‘real’ job, so all these workplace lessons he came across the hard way. At one point, he admits to asking his staff to cc him on every single email (!!!), but once they stage an intervention and explain to him how this is a prime example of micromanaging, he realizes his mistake and eliminates that practice. He eventually leaves Unity, hiring his successor and moving on to do consulting work, but his passion for the organization and its mission is clearly evident throughout the book, explaining many of his over-the-top requests like the one I mentioned above.
My Thoughts
I’m still sorting through my thoughts on this one, having not quite decided how I feel about it overall. On one hand, I was frustrated with the scattered sequence of his story when he frequently jumps back and forward through time to illustrate a point. On the other hand, I found much to learn and enjoy as a fellow non-profit worker and fundraiser. In fact I’ve brought it to my office to record some notes and strategic ideas to help me reach my own fundraising goals. I was energized by his enthusiasm and can-do attitude, especially considering his success despite a lack of training or education in this sector. He left Unity at the ripe old age of 31, which for many, is just the beginning of their career. At that point, he had reached a high point that many won’t achieve through decades of dedication in an organization.
Not everyone is a born writer, although Prosserman is a strong communicator, the flow of his writing does need some work. A minor irritant was that his points were sometimes repeated, he would mention something as if it was news to the reader, even though he had talked about it earlier in the book. This is a small quibble, but as a reviewer I feel compelled to mention it. Aside from these editorial disappointments, his voice came through loud and clear, and I can tell he is an expert at demonstrating impact. And similar to other books in this genre, there were important parts of lessons highlighted in a yellow box – this signaled to the reader that we should pay extra attention to what’s written here, which was helpful to absorb more of the story he was telling. I also appreciated the fact that Prosserman revealed the mistakes his organization made, along with his own. Very few leaders are willing to pull back the curtain that far, and the story he told about a sponsorship event gone wrong made me cringe, but it was so valuable for me to read, as it was a lesson I need to keep in mind in my current role too.
Vulnerability is key to this text; it shines through in Prosserman’s personal stories, infusing this self-help book with relatable knowledge that many will be more willing to absorb, as it’s coming from a place of respect and modesty. I also haven’t mentioned the beautiful book design yet. It’s a paperback with flaps, and includes custom graphics of little characters break dancing their way through paragraphs. I love how this book doesn’t take itself too seriously, and for anyone working in an non-profit leadership role, they would certainly benefit from reading it.
To read the rest of my reviews, please visit my blog:
https://ivereadthis.com/
Sign up for my newsletter here: https://ivereadthis.com/subscribe/
Or follow me on social media!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ivereadthis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ivereadthisblog
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD6E...
May 2, 2020
Please note: I am writing a review of an advanced reading copy of this book.
The parallels between artistic creation and life's struggles and triumphs, the raw emotion, the drive, and the respect with which Mikey tells his story were truly a joy to read. Highly recommend this book for folks seeking guidance and perspective on leadership, dealing with adversity, and for those looking to start initiatives of their own. There's something in there for everyone.
Peace, love and Unity!
The parallels between artistic creation and life's struggles and triumphs, the raw emotion, the drive, and the respect with which Mikey tells his story were truly a joy to read. Highly recommend this book for folks seeking guidance and perspective on leadership, dealing with adversity, and for those looking to start initiatives of their own. There's something in there for everyone.
Peace, love and Unity!
September 4, 2020
Please note this review is based on an Advanced Reading Copy and I have to tell you once I can get my hands on the “Real” book I will re- read the book!
Building Unity is the raw uncut version of a little boy who grows into a man! He has struggles as a teenager and most would give up! Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman finds his vehicle to push forward using the skills he learned in hip hop to “Breakin” to Flipping! With the help of a great Team he was able to bring out great talent and help others going through growth areas in their life! Michael talks about his life with his parents, their split up and many decisively difficult situations he was out in! Through his Flipping on his head to flipping it and making it his own in the non- profit world and giving a tremendous impact doing so! This man I must confess is someone I want to be when I grow up he is so focused and he dances far bette than I do! He shows courage not just for himself but those around him! People will often say that they want to make the world a better place he definitely did! Through his positive work with his Charity Unity wonderful name and the clothing line that went with it had rules- no addictions while wearing the proud Unity shirts, sweat tops and hats- it was a sign of being proud of what you did and how you got there!
This advanced copy of the book is so much more than being proud it is about overcoming adversity and in a positive light! It is about growing as a person no matter what one throws at you! It is about being scared inside and throwing that scared self away and becoming a very strong person! It is being the person you always dreamed you would be and nap much more! This advanced copy of Building Unity made me smile, it made me cry and it made me want to do more and make a huge difference in the world! From a young man to a grown adult Michael helped touched the lives of so many people around the globe! This book is not only a GoodRead it is a great read! I actually read it three times before writing this review! I was beyond impressed and wish Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman lots of Mazel in his next endeavour, when you have reached the moon it is hard to just stay on the ground! Kudos and thank you for letting me read this amazing book! I hope there are more books and presentations coming soon too! I learned so very much!
Tova Gaisin
Building Unity is the raw uncut version of a little boy who grows into a man! He has struggles as a teenager and most would give up! Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman finds his vehicle to push forward using the skills he learned in hip hop to “Breakin” to Flipping! With the help of a great Team he was able to bring out great talent and help others going through growth areas in their life! Michael talks about his life with his parents, their split up and many decisively difficult situations he was out in! Through his Flipping on his head to flipping it and making it his own in the non- profit world and giving a tremendous impact doing so! This man I must confess is someone I want to be when I grow up he is so focused and he dances far bette than I do! He shows courage not just for himself but those around him! People will often say that they want to make the world a better place he definitely did! Through his positive work with his Charity Unity wonderful name and the clothing line that went with it had rules- no addictions while wearing the proud Unity shirts, sweat tops and hats- it was a sign of being proud of what you did and how you got there!
This advanced copy of the book is so much more than being proud it is about overcoming adversity and in a positive light! It is about growing as a person no matter what one throws at you! It is about being scared inside and throwing that scared self away and becoming a very strong person! It is being the person you always dreamed you would be and nap much more! This advanced copy of Building Unity made me smile, it made me cry and it made me want to do more and make a huge difference in the world! From a young man to a grown adult Michael helped touched the lives of so many people around the globe! This book is not only a GoodRead it is a great read! I actually read it three times before writing this review! I was beyond impressed and wish Michael ‘Piecez’ Prosserman lots of Mazel in his next endeavour, when you have reached the moon it is hard to just stay on the ground! Kudos and thank you for letting me read this amazing book! I hope there are more books and presentations coming soon too! I learned so very much!
Tova Gaisin
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2020
This review is based on an advance reading copy.
Consider yourself warned.
Much like the author (I know Mike through my previous involvement with Unity), this book is magnetic, be prepared to be drawn in.
Building Unity lays bare the honest, raw and powerful stories of Michael “Piecez” Prosserman’s journey to building a mental health charity that empowers youth through hip-hop. Mikey, as he is affectionally known to those close to him, uses the six-part framework of Spark, Build, Trust, Grow, Evolve and Re-ignite, to situate his experiences and lessons learned from life and his work in building Unity Charity.
The book contains many moving stories, and stories within stories. Once you start reading, it is difficult to stop. Part one alone will have you drying your eyes, as you learn why B-Boy Piecez had to “beat up the floor” in order to manage the seemingly endless amount of adversity he faced. One of my favourite stories is in part two, it involves a rental truck, a volunteer driver and backwards zigzags. This story becomes even more endearing when, in part six, it is referenced again, but this time in the words of the volunteer driver. The truck story, if I can call it that, illustrates the impact of work that is driven by a calling, work that changes lives.
Through this must read book, Mikey speaks his truth. He shares his story and the story of Unity in an authentic style and in doing so, he takes the hip-hop mentality of “each one teach one” a step further.
Consider yourself warned.
Much like the author (I know Mike through my previous involvement with Unity), this book is magnetic, be prepared to be drawn in.
Building Unity lays bare the honest, raw and powerful stories of Michael “Piecez” Prosserman’s journey to building a mental health charity that empowers youth through hip-hop. Mikey, as he is affectionally known to those close to him, uses the six-part framework of Spark, Build, Trust, Grow, Evolve and Re-ignite, to situate his experiences and lessons learned from life and his work in building Unity Charity.
The book contains many moving stories, and stories within stories. Once you start reading, it is difficult to stop. Part one alone will have you drying your eyes, as you learn why B-Boy Piecez had to “beat up the floor” in order to manage the seemingly endless amount of adversity he faced. One of my favourite stories is in part two, it involves a rental truck, a volunteer driver and backwards zigzags. This story becomes even more endearing when, in part six, it is referenced again, but this time in the words of the volunteer driver. The truck story, if I can call it that, illustrates the impact of work that is driven by a calling, work that changes lives.
Through this must read book, Mikey speaks his truth. He shares his story and the story of Unity in an authentic style and in doing so, he takes the hip-hop mentality of “each one teach one” a step further.
July 7, 2020
*Please note: This is a review of the advanced copy of this book.*
Wow, I'm so glad that I was able to read this book. 'Building Unity' uses breakin' language as a metaphor for organizational development and explains how Unity grew from a class assignment to a global organization by placing people at the epicenter of the organization's operations. As an arts worker and nonprofit worker myself, I was thrilled to finally read about someone who had done what I want to do. This book shows how organizations in the arts-for-development sector can thrive and be sustainable without compromising their values, which was refreshing.
This is not a How-To Guide. Michael's life is quite extraordinary, so it's not possible to emulate his process step-by-step. This is an excellent case study that challenges common assumptions in the nonprofit sector (such as operating under a scarcity mentality rather than an abundance mentality, purposeful and responsible organizational growth, etc.) through applied modeling and real-world examples. Guided by helpful key questions at the end of every chapter, the lessons can be applied to your own work through a meaningful understanding of Michael's process, triumphs, and learning lessons. In particular, I appreciated his honesty about the toll on his mental health throughout his Unity journey, something I don't think is talked about often enough.
A great read and a helpful resource to revisit!
Wow, I'm so glad that I was able to read this book. 'Building Unity' uses breakin' language as a metaphor for organizational development and explains how Unity grew from a class assignment to a global organization by placing people at the epicenter of the organization's operations. As an arts worker and nonprofit worker myself, I was thrilled to finally read about someone who had done what I want to do. This book shows how organizations in the arts-for-development sector can thrive and be sustainable without compromising their values, which was refreshing.
This is not a How-To Guide. Michael's life is quite extraordinary, so it's not possible to emulate his process step-by-step. This is an excellent case study that challenges common assumptions in the nonprofit sector (such as operating under a scarcity mentality rather than an abundance mentality, purposeful and responsible organizational growth, etc.) through applied modeling and real-world examples. Guided by helpful key questions at the end of every chapter, the lessons can be applied to your own work through a meaningful understanding of Michael's process, triumphs, and learning lessons. In particular, I appreciated his honesty about the toll on his mental health throughout his Unity journey, something I don't think is talked about often enough.
A great read and a helpful resource to revisit!
May 17, 2020
Please note - this is a review of an advanced copy.
Great book! As someone who has read a few business profile books and memoirs, I find that this has been a very unconventional and interesting perspective that's both pragmatic and full of heart.
The book is divided in several chapters in metaphors or periods of Michael's journey in building UNITY charity. During the course of his journey, he distills the essence of building a non profit organization, from developing talent to managing fundraising operations, and flips conventional wisdom to something that's effective and efficient, while putting values such as integrity at the forefront of the operation. Anecdotes of various situation give clarity of such lessons in the book, that border on being humorous to tragic, coming from his life as an entrepeneur, bboy, and overall good human being.
Its also a story of trial and tribulations, and one that talks openly about the realities of balancing mental illness and fulfilling expectations of success. It really dives deep on some vulnerabilities that many leaders gloss over or are unwilling to speak to, leaving third party newspapers and gossip columns to find out. Its a very honest account about life as well.
Overall I found it very engaging and walked away with a new perspective. Worth checking out.
Great book! As someone who has read a few business profile books and memoirs, I find that this has been a very unconventional and interesting perspective that's both pragmatic and full of heart.
The book is divided in several chapters in metaphors or periods of Michael's journey in building UNITY charity. During the course of his journey, he distills the essence of building a non profit organization, from developing talent to managing fundraising operations, and flips conventional wisdom to something that's effective and efficient, while putting values such as integrity at the forefront of the operation. Anecdotes of various situation give clarity of such lessons in the book, that border on being humorous to tragic, coming from his life as an entrepeneur, bboy, and overall good human being.
Its also a story of trial and tribulations, and one that talks openly about the realities of balancing mental illness and fulfilling expectations of success. It really dives deep on some vulnerabilities that many leaders gloss over or are unwilling to speak to, leaving third party newspapers and gossip columns to find out. Its a very honest account about life as well.
Overall I found it very engaging and walked away with a new perspective. Worth checking out.
May 26, 2020
Please note: I read an advanced copy of this book.
I can remember brainstorming about this book with the author many years ago. We both had the dream of writing one, we both did - but only one executed the entire dream. This seems to be a trend with this inspiring leader!
Building Unity: Leading a Non-Profit from Spark to Succession is somewhat of a memoir of the author's taking a spark of an idea and running with it full force until passing the torch and executing a (successful) succession plan.
In this raw and vulnerable book, Michael shares the lessons he has learned about leadership and the inspiration he has had from other role models and leaders. One of the most refreshing things about the book is Michael's authenticity and humility.
Being an inspiring leader has not just made Michael and UNITY better, but has touched thousands of others in their wake.
This should be on the shelf of all young entrepreneurs who can learn that success does not happen alone. This is a great read and a great road map for how to build and organisation!
Well done Piecez!
I can remember brainstorming about this book with the author many years ago. We both had the dream of writing one, we both did - but only one executed the entire dream. This seems to be a trend with this inspiring leader!
Building Unity: Leading a Non-Profit from Spark to Succession is somewhat of a memoir of the author's taking a spark of an idea and running with it full force until passing the torch and executing a (successful) succession plan.
In this raw and vulnerable book, Michael shares the lessons he has learned about leadership and the inspiration he has had from other role models and leaders. One of the most refreshing things about the book is Michael's authenticity and humility.
Being an inspiring leader has not just made Michael and UNITY better, but has touched thousands of others in their wake.
This should be on the shelf of all young entrepreneurs who can learn that success does not happen alone. This is a great read and a great road map for how to build and organisation!
Well done Piecez!
September 15, 2020
Please note that this is based on an advanced copy of this book
This is one of the favourite books that I read in awhile and it captivated me from the very first page. Michael (Mikey) opens up in ways that very few people will. His story of building Unity Charity from the ground up to where it is today will inspire you in so many ways. Mikey shares practical tips and examples for anyone who is looking to make an impact in the world but is not sure where to start.
Authentic. Educational. Powerful. Reading this book will leave you hungry for more! I discussed this book with some of my friends and it encouraged us to open up about topics that we don’t normally talk about, like the role that our parents play in our motivations. We were able to apply what was taught in the book to various aspects of our lives whether it be our careers, our personal lives, and our businesses.
I would definitely recommend that you check out this book!
This is one of the favourite books that I read in awhile and it captivated me from the very first page. Michael (Mikey) opens up in ways that very few people will. His story of building Unity Charity from the ground up to where it is today will inspire you in so many ways. Mikey shares practical tips and examples for anyone who is looking to make an impact in the world but is not sure where to start.
Authentic. Educational. Powerful. Reading this book will leave you hungry for more! I discussed this book with some of my friends and it encouraged us to open up about topics that we don’t normally talk about, like the role that our parents play in our motivations. We were able to apply what was taught in the book to various aspects of our lives whether it be our careers, our personal lives, and our businesses.
I would definitely recommend that you check out this book!
July 3, 2020
He endures high levels of anxiety around every corner, the son of a schyzophrenic mother and a father suffering from Parkinsons. To describe him as an average student would be charitable and with three fused vertebrae in his neck, the notion of an athletic career should have been a non-starter.
'Piecez', defied the odds and became world renowned in the breakin' world (break dancing for the rest of us). Perhaps a hero to some.
That is not what defines his alter ego Michael Prosserman, who has stepped up and built Unity, a non-profit that uses breakin' to reach teens in underserved communities, building values, self-esteem and leadership.
His philosophy, embodied in his new marvellous book can be summarized in one line: "our work was about contribution not attribution". HIs humility and honesty make Building Unity a worthy read.
'Piecez', defied the odds and became world renowned in the breakin' world (break dancing for the rest of us). Perhaps a hero to some.
That is not what defines his alter ego Michael Prosserman, who has stepped up and built Unity, a non-profit that uses breakin' to reach teens in underserved communities, building values, self-esteem and leadership.
His philosophy, embodied in his new marvellous book can be summarized in one line: "our work was about contribution not attribution". HIs humility and honesty make Building Unity a worthy read.
July 8, 2020
I read an advanced copy of this book, TWICE.
An incredible read from start to finish. I would recommend it to everyone. I do not work in the non-profit sector, and still found this extremely relevant. I loved the real life examples and practical lessons sprinkled throughout the book. UNIQUE lessons about working with others, developing meaningful relationships (professionally and personally), how to be an effective leader (and not from the top down), and how to truly make a lasting impact in your community. I learned about the importance of not just teaching or doing, but empowering others to do teach and do. Very inspiring stuff. All of this laid out in parallel to breakin' foundations, which makes it an even more fun and engaging read. A MUST READ!
An incredible read from start to finish. I would recommend it to everyone. I do not work in the non-profit sector, and still found this extremely relevant. I loved the real life examples and practical lessons sprinkled throughout the book. UNIQUE lessons about working with others, developing meaningful relationships (professionally and personally), how to be an effective leader (and not from the top down), and how to truly make a lasting impact in your community. I learned about the importance of not just teaching or doing, but empowering others to do teach and do. Very inspiring stuff. All of this laid out in parallel to breakin' foundations, which makes it an even more fun and engaging read. A MUST READ!
March 30, 2021
Michael's book is well-written & impressively sincere. It chronicles his lived experience throughout the seed & growth of an idea to help people. The organization's working methods were conceived by remixing the greatest strengths of hip hop culture to create a unique non-profit organization. Michael discloses his struggles, sharing many lessons learned along the way. Reading about the evolution of Unity, we see the value in sometimes passing up opportunities that aren't quite the right fit. Michael's quirky personality, risk-tolerance, and deep sensitivity run counter to the stereotypical founder/director of a large NGO. His book shows that by sharing who you truly are, you will probably find the right collaborators in time.
May 4, 2020
I read an advanced copy.
A book about the non-profit space is usually too broad and filled with platitudes or only specific to one situation. Mikey Prosserman does a great job of linking the personal and the professional, and then mixing it all up (or flipping it) in his own unique style by infusing it with his love of dance. Each chapter shares lessons that other non-profit leaders can use, insights into the world of dance and the clear voice of Mikey talking bravely about his own personal journey.
A book about the non-profit space is usually too broad and filled with platitudes or only specific to one situation. Mikey Prosserman does a great job of linking the personal and the professional, and then mixing it all up (or flipping it) in his own unique style by infusing it with his love of dance. Each chapter shares lessons that other non-profit leaders can use, insights into the world of dance and the clear voice of Mikey talking bravely about his own personal journey.
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July 5, 2020“Impact before ego” is exactly what we all need to come to terms with, especially in the Not-For-Profit sector. Micheal inspires us through his experience building Unity, to be a community!
Creating, and pushing beyond any barriers, and then letting others lead. Recognizing individuals for their strengths and passion allows for greater opporunity. This is truly a gift and inspiration that Micheal has relayed his journey to us about what he envisioned, grew and then..... let it go and watched Unity fly.
May 22, 2020
Please note: review of an advanced reading copy of this book
If I were ever going to start my own non-profit organization this book is a great guide. It gives you insight into real life circumstances, what you should look for and how to build. The author is personable sharing his own life, honest successes and failures and how it played into the mission of his work. An enjoyable, informative and an easy read, which helps gets through the more technical side of the work.
If I were ever going to start my own non-profit organization this book is a great guide. It gives you insight into real life circumstances, what you should look for and how to build. The author is personable sharing his own life, honest successes and failures and how it played into the mission of his work. An enjoyable, informative and an easy read, which helps gets through the more technical side of the work.
June 9, 2020
*Read an advanced copy*
What a fantastic read. For anyone who is leading a community organization this book is worth it's weight in gold. The book details what it's like to lead an organization from "spark to succession" so no matter what stage in your journey you are at, there is something worthwhile in it for you. It is complete with helpful graphics if you are a visual learner, as well as PD questions at the end of every chapter. Super valuable resource for community organizations :)
What a fantastic read. For anyone who is leading a community organization this book is worth it's weight in gold. The book details what it's like to lead an organization from "spark to succession" so no matter what stage in your journey you are at, there is something worthwhile in it for you. It is complete with helpful graphics if you are a visual learner, as well as PD questions at the end of every chapter. Super valuable resource for community organizations :)
August 17, 2020
Found it amazing that the author draws out the connection between an art form (breakin') and the development of a non-profit organization. Despite the preconceived contrasts between the two practices, this book provides insight on how concepts from any practice can be applied in another. Being a breaker myself, this book hit home.
*Advance Copy
*Advance Copy
December 23, 2020
I found many gems that helped me understand what it's like to make tough decisions in growing a business. The organization's values vs. funding with the wrong partners, mental health vs. overworking, and investing in your people first vs. other areas. If you're an entrepreneur, artist, or want a good find, this is a must read!
*This review is written based on an advanced copy of the book.
*This review is written based on an advanced copy of the book.
July 28, 2020
A true Canadian success story. A very rare, vulnerable glimpse into the mind of a founder who experienced every step of building a national charity. From idea to succession, the book is filled with candid advice and great resources for every level of a non-profit organization.
August 18, 2020
Michael has proved that he can do it. This book proves that he also knows how to teach other people how to do it.
He lists six steps in order to deliver “responsible impact.”
Good to read a book by someone who can do it as well as tell people how to do it.
He lists six steps in order to deliver “responsible impact.”
Good to read a book by someone who can do it as well as tell people how to do it.
September 7, 2020
A beautiful read for any entrepreneur, leader, founder, or human being looking to not only fan the spark of their creative imagination but foster it into a flame that burns into existence. Packed full of lessons and insights – thank you Mike!
March 28, 2022
Michael lays out his successes and mistakes, giving some useful insight on the do's and don'ts of running and building a non profit.
January 10, 2025
The book is readable, inspiring, touching, practical and useful. Michael does an excellent job of providing compelling stories to make a point, then following the stories up with practical lists of what to do, what not to do, questions to ask and processes necessary to start, build and maintain a successful not for profit organization. Michael's superpower of break dancing is at once showbiz, a youth magnet, mental health system and fundraising machine all rolled into one. Anyone who has been working at a non-profit for less than 3 years, and certainly anyone who wants to start or is about to work at a non-profit organization will gain immensely by reading Building Unity. Others should read it because it is so interesting!
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May 4, 2020*This review is from an advanced reading of the book*
Wow, what a treat to be taken along your journey from high school project all the way to successful career. Thank you for sharing what was over 15 years worth of lessons in a way that can be utilized immediately.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone interested in learning about either non-profits, or just learning about one person's incredible journey!
Wow, what a treat to be taken along your journey from high school project all the way to successful career. Thank you for sharing what was over 15 years worth of lessons in a way that can be utilized immediately.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone interested in learning about either non-profits, or just learning about one person's incredible journey!
March 22, 2025
"Building Unity" is a must-read for leaders in the non-profit space. Michael "Piecez" Prosserman strikes a balance between storytelling and actionable strategies. His wisdom on leadership development and sustainable growth makes it a valuable resource for founders and community builders. Authentic and inspirational, the book gets you pumped to create long-term change.
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