"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 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.

The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits also provide up-to-date information on Nonprofit Advocay, including information about Inviting candidates and nonprofit election law.

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

Civic Engagement Do’s & Don’ts - From the Otto Bremer Foundation.

National PTA

• How to Lobby Locally - Simple answers on your advocacy and lobbying questions, and an easy online e-Learning course, Effective Advocacy for Your Child.
  
  
• PTA Votes - Learn what PTA's can and cannot do during elections.

Speak Up: Tips on Advocacy for Publicly Funded Nonprofits - "How far can nonprofits legally go? And how can groups manage their time and resources to effectively make a difference?", Annie E. Casey Foundation.

Voter Participation and Lobbying Guide for Head Start Staff; Parents; and Friends - Strict and conflicting regulations guide the voter education and registration activities of Head Start programs, National Head Start Association.

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