Helpful Links

Si Se Puede: Yes We Can!

Links that help increase involvement in the political process

The list below includes some important resources to help groups advocate for their issues. New and experienced advocates alike will find inspiration and factual information to help them further their public policy efforts.

  • Get the Right Info to the Right Person at the Right TimeReal Clout
     Real Clout takes readers from the initial "good idea" stage through the process of assembling all the resources for a winning campaign. It is used as a resource in Public Policy Institute activities and programs. A free copy of Real Clout is available in Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format.
  • Lobbying on a Shoestring (pdf)
    The third edition of the classic policy advocacy handbook, Lobbying on a Shoestring, is available by mail order. View and print an order form (pdf), or order online from MCLE.
  • Ten Reasons to Lobby for Your Cause (pdf).
    This fact sheet, produced by Independent Sector, outlines reasons that lobbying is important and necessary.
  • The Nonprofit Lobbying Guide.
    This helpful guide is not online but can be purchased online or by calling Independent Sector. View the publications listing and order form (pdf).
  • Let America Speak!
    This list of resources includes guidance for nonprofits on allowable lobbying practices.
  • Alliance for Justice
    The Nonprofit Advocacy section of the Alliance for Justice's website offers a wide range of resources specific to increasing policy advocacy among 501(c)3 organizations.

State, County, and Municipal Websites:

Learn more about your locality and the people who make decisions for it.

These sites allow you to search for your specific state, county, or municipality.

Look at local statistics, learn about current issues, and find out who the key policy makers are.