SNYDER STRATEGIES

In today’s political climate, blasting out letters can seem inadequate. Smart advocacy means more strategy: relationships, coalitions, tailored messages, and even the media—to cut through the noise. When lawmakers know you, when allies coordinate, and when your story hits headlines, your voice becomes impossible to ignore.

A government shutdown isn’t just D.C. drama — it directly impacts nonprofits and the people we serve. From connecting with district staff to sharing stories with the media, now is the time to prepare. Advocacy is your best defense — and your most affordable one.

If advocacy is central to your mission—or should be—your board retreat is the perfect place to sharpen your strategy. A guided session can help your board define what advocacy success looks like, identify your superpowers (expertise, data, stories, supporters), and clarify their role in resourcing it. A few hours now can set your organization up for years of impact.