Policymakers are always at work, making it crucial for foundations to engage with them. By being present, foundations ensure that their concerns are heard. However, many foundations and trustees avoid meeting with elected officials, even though policymakers are eager to hear from them. This blog provides insights on how foundations can effectively participate in the political process.
Understanding Your Role in Advocacy
Philanthropists bring unique resources and perspectives to policy discussions. Here are strategies from our Advocacy Field Guide to help foundations better engage in the political process:
Build Relationships with Policymakers
Building personal relationships is key to effective advocacy. Understand what drives policymakers beyond what you think you know. Use existing connections, like those of your donors or trustees, to start building relationships. Visit and discuss issues you care about to establish a rapport.
Start Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to get involved. Successful advocacy requires long-term relationships with policymakers and their staff. Start building these connections early to be more effective.
Stay Relevant
Policymakers are influenced by what matters to their constituents. Focus on current, relevant issues that align with your foundation’s expertise, such as education or disaster relief. This increases the likelihood of policymakers engaging with you.
Maintain Nonpartisanship
While politicians may try to sway you, it’s important to remain nonpartisan. Your role is to provide unbiased information to all sides, helping to solve community issues without picking sides.
Be Present and Active
Active participation in the political process is essential. Here are ways to stay engaged:
- Monitor regulatory and administrative hearings.
- Attend legislative briefings and government meetings.
- Participate in city council, school board, and county commissioner meetings.
- Meet with policymakers and candidates for elected offices.
- Organize town hall meetings and sponsor candidate debates.
- Provide public testimony and engage other funders in discussions with policymakers.
Recognize your foundation’s influence and use it responsibly to make a positive impact on public policy.
Tips for Meeting with Government Officials
After a Foundations on the Hill event, Exponent Philanthropy staff shared tips for effective meetings with elected officials:
Share Local Stories and Connections
When meeting with officials, share specific stories of local impact from your projects. Mentioning your ties to their state or district and your mutual contacts can make your message more compelling.
Position Your Foundation as a Resource
Don’t assume lawmakers are familiar with your work or the philanthropic sector. Use meetings to educate them, offer assistance, and position yourself as a valuable resource.
Emphasize Collaboration
Highlight that philanthropic funds are not a replacement for government support. Instead, stress the importance of coordination between public and private funding to maximize impact.
Maintain Ongoing Contact
One meeting isn’t enough. Build lasting relationships with your representatives through regular communication and invitations to visit your projects. Consistent engagement fosters dialogue and progress.
The Power of Participation
Engaging in the political process is a powerful way for foundations to amplify their impact and advance their missions. By building relationships with policymakers, staying relevant to current issues, and maintaining a nonpartisan stance, foundations can play a vital role in shaping public policy. Remember, your presence and participation are key to ensuring that your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed. Whether through direct meetings, community engagement, or continuous advocacy efforts, your foundation can make a significant difference. Embrace the opportunity to collaborate with policymakers and other stakeholders to create lasting change for the communities you serve.
Resources to Start Your Advocacy Journey
Foundation Advocacy Intensive: Develop Your Policy Acumen
Sept 25 – Nov 20, 2024 / 2:00 – 4:00 pm ET / 4-part Virtual Workshop
This program helps lean funders leverage their strengths in advocacy. Explore how your foundation can drive systemic changes that benefit grantees, partners, and the community. Learn more »
Advocacy Field Guide for Lean Funders
This guide helps lean foundations and donors fund and engage in policy directly. It offers seven practical steps, a basic primer on essentials, ways to fund and engage, and tips for convincing your board. We include strategies and real examples from lean funders to inspire and guide you. Download »