The Goal

When people think of the most powerful examples of advocacy in our sector, iconic moments such as women’s suffrage, the 1963 March on Washington, or “die-ins” during the height of the AIDS epidemic come to mind. However, these historic victories didn’t happen by luck or accident. Many of the most notable examples of policy progress and in the United States resulted from relentless advocacy led by nonprofits. Research shows advocacy is a key characteristic of high-impact nonprofits, but unfortunately fewer than 50% of organizations report public policy or advocacy as a central part of their strategy. 

Nonprofits can’t change systems to better serve their missions and communities without advocacy. However, not every gesture of advocacy needs to be grand; in fact, sometimes the smallest of efforts may result in huge payoffs.  These advocacy pages curate research, resources, and policy positions to help your organization jumpstart and grow your ability to achieve your mission, shape your environment and empower your community through nonpartisan advocacy.

Learn the Rules of the Road

Since its inception, the nonprofit sector has served as the cornerstone of civic engagement. Independent Sector strongly believes that every charitable organization and nonprofit leader must have the skills and knowledge to use advocacy to effectively advance their mission. However, for many organizations, the uncertainty of the rules around advocacy is often a barrier to participating in the process.

This practical guidance will help you quickly learn the rules of the road while you proceed full speed ahead to educating leaders to ensure your organization’s needs, issues, and community are front and center for policymakers.