SNYDER STRATEGIES

Launching the Iowa Nonprofit Alliance taught me a lot about power, persistence, and the sector’s potential. In this reflection, I share what I learned as INA’s first director—why nonprofits need more than technical assistance, why advocacy isn’t optional, and why funders must get bolder to truly support systems change.

Nonprofit leaders are being asked to do more advocacy than ever—and many are wondering if it’s really making a difference. As a former Senate staffer turned strategist, I’m here to say: yes, advocacy works. It’s not fast or flashy, but it’s powerful. From smoke-free laws to marriage equality, lasting change happens because people keep showing up.

When nonprofit leaders back out of advocacy because a letter feels “too harsh,” they’re not being strategic—they’re being spineless. In this blog, I share a recent example of a CEO missing the moment to stand with peers and show real leadership. At Snyder Strategies, we help nonprofits build the confidence and clarity to speak up boldly, because staying silent in today’s climate isn’t safe—it’s surrender.