A Lobby Day Is Not a Grassroots Strategy
About 90% of the time, when I ask organizations how they engage their grassroots, the answer is, “We have a lobby day.” That answer tells me a lot. Lobby days matter, but they cannot carry your entire advocacy strategy. Here’s how to turn one day at the capitol into something that actually builds momentum.
17 minutes ago4 min read
2026 Nonprofit Advocacy Trends: How to Strengthen Your Advocacy for What’s Ahead
As we head into 2026, advocacy that works is built on clarity, not constant urgency. The most effective nonprofits are focused, intentional, and clear about what actually moves policy.
4 days ago5 min read
Lobbyists Are Loose in the Capitol: Your Survival Guide
Lobbyists are gearing up for session—but that doesn’t mean your advocacy work is on autopilot. A lobbyist is a partner, not the whole plan. This post pulls together my best advice on how nonprofits can work with lobbyists more strategically and build real influence.
Dec 11, 20253 min read
When Good Intentions Make Bad Advocacy
Some nonprofits are diving into advocacy without understanding the basics -- and it shows. A recent national action alert urged everyone to call random senators with zero targeting or constituent connection. Hill staffers don’t need another day of explaining Civics 101. If you want to advocate effectively, precision matters.
Nov 29, 20254 min read
Nonprofits: Stop Pretending Elections Don’t Affect Your Mission
Nonprofits don’t need to endorse candidates to think strategically. As you plan for 2026, the election year will shape lawmakers, narratives, and opportunities. Ignoring that isn’t compliance -- it’s a blind spot.
Nov 24, 20253 min read
Your Volunteers Aren’t Just Helpers - They’re Advocates Waiting to Happen
Volunteers don’t need to be policy experts — just confident. A little guidance on advocacy basics, storytelling, and connecting with lawmakers turns them into powerful advocates.
Nov 18, 20255 min read
How to Pivot Quickly When the World Is on Fire
Nonprofit leaders know the chaos never stops—new crises, new policies, new fires to put out. When I led the Iowa Nonprofit Alliance through a whirlwind of executive orders in early 2025, I learned how to pivot fast without losing focus. Here’s how to stay grounded, move quickly, and lead with clarity when everything around you is shifting.
Nov 5, 20253 min read