Establishing your organization as a source of information and ideas for policy makers can help advance your cause — an especially important function in tumultuous political times. Whether you’re aiming to help shape public policy under a new administration in Washington or boost your cause at the local level, this collection of Chronicle resources will help you build ties with lawmakers and follow Internal Revenue Service rules that preclude 501(c)(3) organizations from lobbying.
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Advice
Coaching Board Members for Advocacy Pays Big Dividends
Trustees’ connections and community clout can be invaluable for the nonprofits they serve, but these assets are often underused. Experts share their secrets on how to motivate board members to make your case to legislators and policy makers. -
Advice
Turn Your Nonprofit’s Trustees Into Master Advocates
Board members make some of the best advocates for a charity’s mission. Here’s how to make them comfortable in that role. -
Advice11 Ways for Nonprofits to Build Ties With Lawmakers
Experts see this as one of the most basic kinds of advocacy. Here’s how to get started. -
Advice
How to Advocate and Stay Within the Law During a Political Transition
A guide for nonprofits on advocacy between the election and the inauguration. -
News
Video: How to Get Board Members Involved in Advocacy
BoardSource chief executive Anne Wallestad says advocacy is an “underutilized tool” at nonprofits but that charity leaders can help trustees do their part. -
Advice
How a Family Foundation Shaped an Urgent National Issue
Through a fellowship program, a family foundation and a communications firm prepared pain experts to raise awareness about ways to better manage chronic pain. -
Advice
How to Stay Within the Law in Election-Year Advocacy
With nearly a year of presidential-election activity ahead, it’s important to adhere to the guidelines governing nonprofit work and politics. -
Advice
Nonprofits Can Help Shape Public Policy in an Election Year — With Care
How to advocate for a cause without risking your tax-exempt status.
