Sunday, June 26, 2011

Government Relations 101

I'm launching this blog to prepare for "Government Relations 101," my presentation to the North Carolina Philanthropy Conference on August 11. The session will train non-profit executive directors and fundraisers how to build advocacy programs that get results.

Many non-profits depend on government appropriations, which are in jeopardy. State and local governments are navigating serious budget crises by finding cost-saving measures wherever they can.  Government agencies are seeing up to 30% cuts, and non-profits should prepare for similar.

Also, electoral shifts have changed the landscape for non-profits. New party leadership brings new priorities and causes for elected bodies. Groups that were once "shoe-ins" for funding or policy consideration may now be scrambling to get attention from new leaders.

On August 11, I want to present non-profit leaders with tools to connect with lawmakers (from governors to mayors and legislators to county commissioners) despite the government transitions happening across the country. After the session, participants should be abe to put together an effective government relations plan that distinguishes themselves from the hundreds of other non-profits needing money and action from elected bodies.

I'll be sharing ideas and materials and asking for your input on this blog. Stay tuned.

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