A New Chapter: Introducing The Giving Blueprint
May 19, 2026 | author: Erika Carruth
Every so often, a moment arrives that feels like a hinge in one’s career—a point where the past, present, and future align with a satisfying click. Publishing The Giving Blueprint – A Guide to Growing, Funding, and Amplifying Social Good is one of those moments for me.
Most people who know Carruth Photo know me through the lens—literally. My photography and visual art have long been intertwined with purpose-driven work: raising awareness for causes, supporting fundraisers, and helping organizations tell their stories. But behind the camera, another part of my professional life has been quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) expanding for more than two decades.
The Bigger Picture Behind the Book
While my creative work often takes center stage on this website, my career has always lived at the intersection of art, strategy, and service. For over twenty years, I have worked alongside nonprofit organizations and mission-driven businesses—helping them build programs, strengthen operations, secure funding, and design events that not only raise money but galvanize communities. From eco-focused startups to major fundraising events tied to the NFL, from grassroots organizations to established nonprofits with national reach, I’ve had the privilege of helping leaders turn ideas into impact. My consulting firm grew out of this work, supporting both small businesses and nonprofits in streamlining operations, refining marketing, and developing sustainable funding strategies.
And yes—grant writing. Lots of grant writing. Which, in a poetic twist, ties right back to the writing and storytelling that fuel my photography and this very website.
Why The Giving Blueprint
This book is meaningful to me on many levels. It represents the culmination of years spent in the trenches with organizations doing extraordinary work—often with limited resources and limitless passion. At its core it serves as a guide, a reference, and a workbook for anyone navigating the nonprofit world. For those new to the sector, it offers foundational knowledge that can shorten the learning curve. For seasoned professionals, it provides a refresher and a chance to revisit the fundamentals with fresh perspective. And for me, it offers something I have long desired: a way to reach and support organizations I may never have the chance to work with directly.
For those who follow Carruth Photo on social media, you may already be aware that the first printed batch of The Giving Blueprint was made available free of charge to nonprofit organizations—a small gesture of gratitude for the work they do every day. And it is not too late. If you are part of a nonprofit and would like a copy, simply reach out. I will make sure one finds its way to you.* For everyone else, the book is now available, and it will soon be expanding to additional purchasing platforms, including Amazon and other online retailers. More details will be shared as those listings go live.
Publishing this book is a milestone—one built on years of collaboration, creativity, and community. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported this project, to the nonprofits who have already reached out with interest, and to those who have sent kind words and encouragement. Your support means more than you know. Thank you for being part of this endeavor and for allowing me to continue doing what I love: creating, serving, and helping amplify the good in the world.
To secure your copy of “The Giving Blueprint” click here.
*Complimentary copies for nonprofits are available while supplies last.
