Civic Engagement and the Common Good: Vote with Your Mission

Did you know that more people donate money than get out to vote? Nonprofit organizations have the opportunity to increase civic participation of their community members, whether or not they are citizens. Nonprofits can help people learn about and participate in elections, when possible.

New Mexico has about 5,500 nonprofits with a paid workforce that is twice those working in government. And thousands more volunteer for nonprofits! Let’s mobilize the power of nonprofits and increase voter engagement.

Learning Objectives

• Understand why you would want your nonprofit to help clients, constituents, staff, board and volunteers participate in the electoral process
• Identify strategies to engage people in civic life even if they can’t vote
• Acquire methods to help people understand tax policy and other issues that appear on the ballot through fun and nonpartisan exercises
• Understand why and how nonprofits are effective at encouraging participation
• Know that it is legal to encourage people to form opinions about issues that appear on the ballot, to express their views, and to vote their values

Level

Introductory/intermediate

Audience

Everyone - really, everyone in the nonprofit sector whether you are a CEOor volunteer leader, funder, consultant, staff member, advocate, or intermediary. 

Presenter

Kim Klein is an internationally known trainer, speaker and author, well known for her ability to deliver information in a practical, down-to-earth and humorous way.  She has a wide range of nonprofit experience, having worked as staff and as a volunteer and a board member. Kim is the author of five books, including Reliable Fundraising in Unreliable Times, which won the McAdam Book Award.  Her classic text, Fundraising for Social Change, shortly to be released in a seventh edition.  

This free training will be preceded by a session with Building Movement Project and another free training with Kim Klein, separate registration is necessary for each:

Working Towards The Common Good: 2015 NM Nonprofit Survey Report
How To Raise $50,000 In Six Weeks