Do you feel like your organization is on its own in the advocacy realm? If so, take some solace in the knowledge that you’re probably not as alone as you think. Well, at least not in feeling that way.
A few weeks ago I posted a piece focused on some of the barriers that non-profits face in advocacy. At the time, I zeroed in on the internal factors at play in many non-profits: lack of resources and cultural indifference toward political engagement. But as I’m thinking about the challenges for these organizations today, I’m wondering about the external challenges too.
What if you have both the will, and the resources to advocate effectively? What barriers could still be in your way? As I’m pondering the topic, I keep landing on the reality of insularity.
Those who work in the non-profit space share a common attribute: an abundance of passion. Let’s face it, the work is difficult. Without a deep well of fortitude, those in the field wouldn’t last long. But there’s an overlooked shortcoming when it comes to all that passion. Too often it’s laser-focused on the limited scope of that non-profit’s mission and blind to the surrounding political environment.
And that’s no knock against these organizations – it’s an understandable outcropping of their passionate, intensely focused service.
But if I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times: there is room for everyone to participate, and succeed, in advocacy. But you have to be willing to embrace the role of partner by expanding how you define your community.
Within your political action plan you should already be identifying targets to influence. But be honest, are you also thinking through the targets to bring into your fold through coalitions? Building those relationships requires an immense amount of relationship and trust building – both of which require taking responsibility to be in community with others. And yes, that includes those you may disagree with politically.
Are you encouraging your team to serve with other organizations when they ask? Are you joining community groups like the Chamber of Commerce or the Rotary? What about making the immense commitment to serve on another entity’s board of directors? By making these commitments to the broader community, successful advocates can open doors to a network that will exponentially expand their political impact.
Take responsibility to be in community. You’ll find you’re not as isolated as you think, and that network will carry you far.
Part of the Possible 