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The Big Picture: Many Ways to Make a Difference
10/16/2008 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Nonprofits historically have served as agents of change in American society.

(Most parent groups ARE nonprofits.)

From tapping the people power of communities to providing valuable research to policy makers, nonprofits are a vital part of American democracy. All organizations - from human service providers to arts groups, from museums to environmental organizations - can make a powerful difference in the public arena by engaing in nonpartisan advocacy on behalf of the people they serve.

Yet sometimes the daily grind - keeping the lights on, providing services, multiple demands and competing resources - can prevent organizations from fully engaging in public life. All people suffer when this is the case, as valuable perspectives are not shared, problems persist, and communities are not adequately represented. Yet for even the busiest organization, there are many ways to make a difference!

This workshop will review the structures of democracy (elections, civic involvement, and legislative processes) and explore the historical role of nonprofits as community-based organizations advocating for change and the advancement of issues. You will leave this session with effective strategies for engagement as well as an understanding of laws relating to nonprofit advocacy. The Big Picture is a basic primer for your organization, whether your organization is already engaged in advocacy, or just thinking about it.

As a special bonus, your board members are invited to attend at no cost! Instructions on registering your board members will be sent upon registration.

This session is presented by Marcia Avner, public policy director, and Jeannie Fox, deputy public policy director, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.

Please note that a free Capitol Lab is taking place from 1 - 4 p.m. after this event. Learn more about the Capitol Lab and register today! (You must register for each event seperately.)

Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 9 a.m. - noon
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W., Ste. 20; St. Paul
Fee: $45 for MCN members/ $65 for nonmembers

More Information & Online Registration