It’s Election Season! Tools to Support Electoral Advocacy

With the 2018 midterm election less than 70 days away, many electoral advocacy efforts are in full swing. There are many electoral activities that non-profit organizations CAN organize or engage in legally. Here are a few resources to help you reach out, take action, and bring your issue into the limelight.

• The Town Hall project researches every district and state for public events with members of Congress and shares their findings to promote participation in the democratic process. The Town Hall Project empowers constituents across the country to have face-to-face conversations with their elected representatives.
• In addition to Congressional Representative events, The Town Hall project shares information about events for Arizona, Colorado, North Carolina, and Virginia State Legislatures.
• Families USA developed an advocacy guide with six key questions to ask Congressional candidates about health care.
• Use ACS’ Do’s and Don’ts of Electoral Advocacy to understand what your 501(c)3 organization can and can NOT do when conducting nonpartisan electoral advocacy and ballot initiative activities.
• ACS’ guide to Building an Effective Electoral Strategy presents a 4-step process that will help you build that electoral strategy by walking you through the internal and external elements an effective strategy must entail.
• ACS’ Guide to Developing a Successful Get Out The Vote is a step-by-step how-to guide filled with tips, tools, frequently asked questions, and other supporting materials.
• Want to host your own forum for local, state, or federal candidates? Use ACS’ Guide to Hosting a Successful Candidate Forum. Hosting a candidate forum is an opportunity to bring important topics to the forefront of a local or state election. These forums are a great way to engage the community, stakeholders, and candidates in a discussion about the need and importance of your issue.

Whatever action you decide to take this election season, Advocacy & Communication Solutions, LLC (ACS) is here to support you. Contact us at info@advocacyandcommunication.org.