7 Leadership Lessons for Volunteers

Leadership Lessons Inspired by Leaving Microsoft to Change the World

About the Book

Leaving Microsoft to Change the World is John Wood’s memoir of walking away from a high-powered career at Microsoft to start Room to Read, a nonprofit dedicated to children’s literacy and education in developing countries. What began with carrying books on a trek in Nepal grew into one of the fastest-growing education organizations in the world—building thousands of schools and libraries and transforming the lives of millions of children.

The book is more than a story of charity; it’s a manual on bold leadership, clear vision, and the power of networks to create massive social impact.

Why It Matters to Us

At Klemensen Charities, we share that same spirit. Like John Wood, we believe that if we bring courage, persistence, and teamwork to the table, we can empower women and children to break cycles of poverty. His journey offers timeless leadership lessons that guide how we work and how you, as a new volunteer, can make a difference.

Seven Leadership Lessons for Volunteers

1. Results Over Good Intentions

John Wood understood that good intentions weren’t enough, real change required measurable impact. That meant counting schools built, books delivered, and children enrolled. For us, results mean families fed, women launching businesses, and young people gaining jobs. As a volunteer, you are part of a mission where outcomes, not just effort, matter.

2. Tenacity and Persistence

Wood approached every meeting, every conversation, as a chance to advance the mission. He never let rejection discourage him. At Klemensen Charities, persistence is the heartbeat of our work. Each time you share our story, invite a friend to help, or show up for an event, you are keeping the mission moving forward.

3. Mission Clarity

One of Room to Read’s greatest strengths was its crystal-clear mission statement. Everyone, staff, donors, volunteers could repeat it in one sentence.
Our mission is also simple: to fight poverty by empowering women and children through microloans, resources, and sustainable trade.
As a volunteer, carry this mission with you. When people ask what we do, you can answer with confidence and clarity.

4. The Power of Networks

John Wood knew he couldn’t do it alone. Instead of relying on a small staff, he built a global network of volunteers and partners who gave time, skills, and connections. You are part of that same network. You don’t just contribute tasks, you bring your own relationships, creativity, and passion. Every introduction you make, every story you share, expands the reach of Klemensen Charities.

5. Courage to Leave Comfort Zones

Leaving Microsoft meant leaving behind security, prestige, and stability. It took courage for Wood to step into the unknown. We don’t ask volunteers to quit their jobs but we do invite you to grow. Whether it’s taking on leadership at an event, speaking about our mission, or serving abroad, change begins when you step outside your comfort zone.

6. Storytelling as Influence

Wood became a master storyteller. Donors didn’t give because of statistics alone; they gave because they felt connected to the story of one child, one book, one future. At Klemensen, stories are our most powerful tool. When you share the story of a woman who received her first loan or a child whose future is brighter, you are inviting others to join the mission.

7. Think Bigger

Wood could have stopped after building one library, but instead he dreamed of reaching millions of children. That big vision attracted supporters and inspired action. At Klemensen Charities, we also think beyond today’s project. Your efforts, whether small or large, are seeds that can grow into movements, changing communities for generations.

A Final Word

You may be new, but you are already a leader. Leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about showing up, taking initiative, and believing that change is possible. As you volunteer with us, remember: every act of service, every connection you make, every story you share, is part of something larger. Together, we are lifting families, empowering women, and shaping a better future.

Welcome to the team. Let’s change the world, one family at a time.