by Dr. Kevin Dean, President & CEO, Tennessee Nonprofit Network
In 2021, Tennessee Nonprofit Network, formerly Momentum Nonprofit Partners, launched our first-ever public policy agenda. We spent weeks holding focus groups with our members, asking what their concerns were and what our policy priorities should be. What was disconcerting – for me, at least – was that the conversations always focused just on acquiring government funding. And let’s face it, when someone mentions “public policy” in a room full of nonprofit folks, the first thing that pops into many minds is probably “funding!” And hey, who can blame them? Keeping the lights on and programs running is essential. But focusing solely on the dollar signs misses the bigger picture of how nonprofits can truly flex their muscles in the policy arena. Yes, funding designates importance and priorities in the government sphere, but addressing the systemic roots of some of our community challenges must be a priority.
Nonprofits are uniquely positioned to identify the needs and challenges faced by those they represent. As protectors of their mission and the well-being of their constituents, they have a responsibility to ensure that policies and laws do not negatively impact the very people they strive to help. This means going beyond immediate service provision and addressing the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality and disadvantage.
In the early 2000s, a coalition of nonprofits in California, dedicated to supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, successfully advocated for the passage of Proposition 36. This landmark legislation fundamentally shifted the state’s approach to drug offenses, offering treatment and rehabilitation instead of incarceration for non-violent drug offenders. This victory serves as a powerful example of how nonprofits can directly shape public policy to better serve their communities. While the prospect of government funding often piques the interest of nonprofits when public policy is mentioned, the true power of engagement lies in their ability to champion their mission and protect the communities they serve.
Nonprofits have this incredible superpower: they’re deeply connected to the communities they serve. They know the struggles, the hopes, and the dreams of the people they work with. This gives them a unique voice and a moral obligation to speak up when policies threaten to harm those communities. It’s like having a direct line to the people who know what’s really going on, and that’s invaluable when it comes to making good policy decisions.
Take, for example, those amazing nonprofits working with folks who were formerly incarcerated. They’re not just providing a helping hand with housing, jobs, and mental health support – they’re also fighting to change the system that led to mass incarceration in the first place. They know that locking people up isn’t the answer; it’s about addressing the root causes of crime and creating real opportunities for people to turn their lives around. The prison system is currently structured in a way that doesn’t focus on rehabilitation, but it’s also a huge drain on our resources. We’re talking about a whopping $140 to $180 billion every year in our tax dollars! That’s enough money to fund countless community programs, education initiatives, and social services. By advocating for smarter policies that focus on prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration, nonprofits can help break this cycle of incarceration and build safer, healthier communities for everyone.
But wait, there’s more! Nonprofits are also masters at mobilizing people and getting the word out. They can rally communities, organize events, and use their platform to educate the public and put pressure on decision-makers. They’re like the ultimate grassroots organizers, and that’s a force to be reckoned with, especially when they form coalitions to advance bills or fight bad legislation.
Nonprofits should be concerned with public policy for several reasons:
- Mission Advancement: Public policies can directly impact a nonprofit’s ability to achieve its mission. For instance, policies on education funding affect educational nonprofits, environmental regulations impact conservation groups, and so on. By engaging with public policy, nonprofits can advocate for policies that support their goals and help them better serve their communities.
- Sustainability and Resources: Government policies often determine the funding and resources available to nonprofits. Tax policies, grants, and contracts can significantly impact a nonprofit’s financial stability. Being aware of and influencing these policies can ensure their continued operation and ability to serve their constituents.
- Voice for the Voiceless: Nonprofits often represent marginalized or underrepresented communities. They have a unique understanding of the needs and challenges faced by these groups. Engaging in public policy allows them to amplify these voices and advocate for policies that address inequality and promote social justice.
- Problem Solving and Community Well-being: Nonprofits are often at the forefront of addressing social problems. Their experience and expertise provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current policies and the need for new solutions. Nonprofits can help shape more effective and responsive policies that benefit the entire community by contributing to policy discussions.
- Long-Term Impact: While direct service provision is crucial, addressing systemic issues through public policy can create lasting change. By advocating for policies that target the root causes of social problems, nonprofits can contribute to sustainable solutions and improve the lives of future generations.
Of course, navigating the world of public policy can be tricky. It requires strategy, relationship-building, and a good dose of persistence. But with the right approach, nonprofits can become powerful agents of change, shaping policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve.
So, the next time you hear someone say that nonprofits should just stick to “doing good” and leave policy to the politicians, remember this: Nonprofits are not just about providing services; they’re about creating a better world. And that means using every tool at their disposal, including public policy, to fight for justice, equality, and opportunity for all.
Let’s ditch the misconception that policy engagement is just about chasing grant money. It’s about amplifying voices, challenging the status quo, and building a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. Now that’s something worth fighting for!