Advocates

Nonprofit organizations have a mission to effect change in the world. To be able to do this to the best of our abilities we have to be involved in advocacy. Governments regulations and laws have a significant impact each of these organizations and the people they serve. Therefore it is absolutely imperative that representatives from the organization become involved with policymakers at the city, state, and national level. To effect change organization must educate and excite others about their mission.

After recognition that advocacy is an important part of our role the next question is who should do it? I think the best answer here is that each individual organization will have to evaluate their mission and determine the how large of a role that advocacy needs to play. I do believe that there is some level of engagement that every organization can participate in. That being said, however, there will be those organizations that have to play a larger role than others because of how much their organization are affected by policy makers. Organizations involved in the Arts and culture recognize that without public support many would flounder and project like opera houses would be difficult to build. Environmental organizations know that the public must be excited if the earth is to be preserved. Those organizations whose focus is on education must me constantly work towards getting their message out, because in some places policy changes affect them almost daily. When services are critical, so is speaking out on the issues that concern those in need.

Advocacy is a necessary part of nonprofit organizations. It provides the opportunity for voices to be heard, and the reality of the situation to be brought into focus. Every organization has a message to share, and we need to learn how to best advocate for our missions.