Restoring Hope Through Servant Leadership and Purposeful Action
It’s not every day you come across a book that truly challenges the way we think about helping others. The Dignity of Service: The Power of Social Entrepreneurship by Nathan W. McKie Sr. goes far beyond the usual talk about leadership and charity—it gets to the heart of what it really means to serve with purpose. This isn’t just a guide; it’s a wake-up call for individuals and organizations who want to make real, lasting impact in their communities.
What makes this book stand out is how McKie ties leadership, faith, and practicality together in one seamless message. Drawing from personal experience and years of work in social development, he shows that dignity isn’t just a value—it’s a strategy. His words are grounded, inspiring, and deeply human, encouraging readers to look beyond profit and focus on people.
Building Communities with Purpose
At its core, The Dignity of Service explores how servant leadership and social entrepreneurship can restore dignity and create meaningful change in communities. McKie and co-author Jeff share their own stories, strategies, and faith-driven insights to help readers understand how service, when done with genuine purpose, can transform lives. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, they highlight the power of asking “why” before acting—reminding us that change doesn’t start with money or programs but with compassion and intention.
One of the quality characteristics that deal with service is need-oriented evangelism. Th at concept won Nathan over due to its focusing on fi lling a need. While this is primarily considered a good way to be successful as an entrepreneur, it is also good advice for the church. After all, we are the ones who have the best answer to solve the most pressing needs we face in our society: Jesus Christ.
The Dignity of Service, Service: The Key to Success, p. 4
What really stands out is how the book approaches poverty not as a problem to be solved with handouts, but as a challenge that requires innovation and empathy. McKie’s call to action is bold yet practical—urging entrepreneurs, leaders, and everyday people to see service as a form of empowerment. The book pushes readers to rethink what progress looks like, making it an essential read for anyone passionate about building stronger, more resilient communities.
A Life of Leadership and Faith
Nathan W. McKie Sr. has lived a life that reflects the very principles he writes about. Growing up in Mississippi, he learned the value of hard work early, from delivering newspapers to helping in his father’s retail store. Those early lessons in discipline, business, and community shaped the man he would become—a leader driven by purpose. After earning his business degree and serving as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force, McKie went on to achieve his MBA and devote his career to guiding others toward success through entrepreneurship and mentorship.
Today, McKie leads as the founder of Luke 16 Corp, an organization dedicated to empowering social entrepreneurs and revitalizing communities. His experience as a Christian, teacher, consultant, and mentor shines through in every page of his work. Through his “Dignity Trilogy,” McKie offers not just business wisdom, but a blueprint for how service, faith, and innovation can come together to make the world a better place.
A Call to Serve and Inspire
The Dignity of Service is more than a book—it’s a reminder that true change begins when we decide to serve others with intention and heart. This inspiring guide invites readers to see leadership as an act of love and courage, not just responsibility.