From Contact to Connection: How Nonprofits Build Power and Move Policy

In today’s policy landscape, nonprofits are no longer optional participants in policymaking — they are essential partners. As gridlock persists at the federal level and more decisions shift to states and local governments, lawmakers increasingly rely on trusted nonprofit leaders for

credible information, real-world context, and community insight.

This workshop moves beyond the basics of advocacy and focuses on the practical skills nonprofits need to build effective, long-term relationships with lawmakers and their staff. Participants will learn how policymakers actually experience advocacy, how decisions get

shaped behind the scenes, and how nonprofits can show up as trusted, strategic resources — not just when a vote is imminent, but year-round.

Whether you are new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your approach, this session will help you build confidence, clarity, and consistency in how you engage with elected officials.

Participants will learn how to: