Nonprofits, Voting, and Elections

A colleague of mine who is currently attending the PolicyLink Summit in New Orleans just sent me a great resource for non-profit organizations who are politically active. A publication of the Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network, Nonprofits, Elections, and Voting is

a 15 page guide to permissible, nonpartisan voter participation activities for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The Guide is specifically tailored to the needs and concerns of 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and is updated annually.

I haven’t read the whole thing, but it appears to be chock full of useful, practical guidance on what is and isn’t permitted, both in general and in an election year.

It’s a common misconception that 501(c)(3) charities must remain politically neutral and disengaged at all times. Many of my peers in the field are so afraid of running afoul of the rules that they’re never even willing to state a position on issues that affect their constituencies. This is unfortunate, as it puts a significant artificial limitation on the organization’s ability to carry out its mission. Kudos to the Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network for bringing some much needed clarity.