Nonprofit Lobbying Guide
Date: 21 Dec 2006
Author: National Alliance to End Homelessness
Files:
Advocacy and Lobbying: Key Differences for Nonprofit Organizations (PDF | 115 KB | 2 pages)
Determining Lobby Limits for Nonprofit Organizations (PDF | 168 KB | 2 pages)
Dos and Don'ts for 501 (c) (3) Lobbying (PDF | 122 KB | 1 page)
Unfortunately, myths about lobbying prevent many nonprofit organizations from taking part in the public policy process. A common myth is that lobbying is only done by people hired by large corporations or lawyers and that 501 (c) (3) nonprofits are not legally allowed to lobby. Don’t be fooled - 501 (c) (3) non-profits can and should lobby! However, there are a few things you should keep in mind as your organization begins planning how to advance its cause through helping to shape policy. The Alliance will help you understand the dos and don’ts of nonprofit lobbying, what lobbying is, determining how your organization measures lobbying activities and how to get more involved in Federal advocacy, of which there are no limits!

