"We're a 501(c)3, we can't advocate!"

Not so! 

But whether your group is registered as a 501(c)3 or a 501(c)4 does makes a difference in how you advocate for your children and your schools.  For example, a 501(c)3 can't endorse a candidate or a particular piece of legislation, but can ask questions about legislation and share information about its local impacts.

Explore these online resources to learn more about what you can and cannot do, and how you can accomplish your objectives.

The Alliance for Justice Nonprofit Advocacy Project is the "go to" place for information about the laws that govern nonprofit participation in the policy process.

• Citizens United: What Now? - On January 21, 2010, the Supreme Court issued a controversial, 5-4 opinion in Citizens United v. FEC, a case that will greatly impact nonprofit advocacy activities. While much of the focus has been about increased spending by for-profit corporations, these changes also apply to issue-based organizations that promote the social good.  More than ever, nonprofit corporations can and should actively participate in elections (Chart).

The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits also provide up-to-date information on Nonprofit Advocay.

Additional resources on Voter Engagement/GOTV efforts.

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Charity Lobbying in the Public Interest - Educates charities about the important role lobbying can play in achieving their mission.

Election Year Advocacy: Candidate Forums (March 2007) - Under federal tax law, 501(c)(3) organizations may host candidate appearances, Alliance for Justice.

National PTA Online Advocacy Toolkit - Helping child advocates speak up for the health and well-being of all children.

Nonprofits, Voting, and Elections (Updated March 2008) - A guide for 501(c)3 organizations on how to conduct election-related activities, Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network.

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