Every nonprofit should identify both the direct and indirect impacts of legislation and funding decisions being considered with regard to your mission and to talk with your board about it. Make advocacy a regular part of your board agenda. It is a core responsibility of the board of directors to promote public understanding of your mission and to advocate for public policies that support your mission.

Learn more about the Stand for Your Mission campaign, which aims to equip board members with the tools and knowledge they need to become strong advocates for nonprofits in the community.

501 Commons is working on developing some additional training programs and resources to help boards and staff with advocacy, but you can immediately ask for help from colleagues in advocacy organizations that have this expertise and knowledge. Check out the resources on Advocacy and Community Engagement in the Nonprofit Resource Directory. Send comments on legislation to state legislators on the Legislative Hotline: 1-800-562-6000 and watch committee meetings on TVW to stay informed as legislation moves through the legislature.

You can find out how to contact your congressional and state officials by visiting USA.gov/elected-officials.