Nonprofit organizations play an essential role in our democracy by helping their communities communicate with government decisionmakers. Nonprofits can do this work. But they need to be knowledgeable about the types of advocacy that fall under the IRS’ lobbying limit, or that trigger an obligation to register as a lobbyist. 

This workshop will describe what nonprofits can do in keeping with their tax-exempt status. It will also provide practical ways to comply with federal, state and local laws that require registration and reporting by organizations that engage in a substantial amount of lobbying. Participants will have opportunities to share strategies they are using to maximize advocacy while minimizing administrative burdens.

Covered topics include:  

• When does it count as lobbying to seek City Council discretionary funding or participate in a rally?
• How can 501(c)(3) organizations lobby for themselves and their communities consistent with the Internal Revenue Code?
• When and how must lobbying activity be reported to New York State and New York City?
• What is the difference between "direct lobbying" and "grass roots lobbying"?
• Do organizations ever have to report tweets by their employees or members?

Who Should Attend: Executive Directors, senior staff, and organizers that receive funding from the Andrus Family Fund, Brooklyn Community Foundation, Cricket Island Foundation, Daphne Foundation, Korean American Community Foundation, Mertz Gilmore Foundation, New York Foundation, New York Women's Foundation, North Star Fund, NYC Fund for Girls and Young Women of Color, Scherman Foundation, and Stonewall Community Foundation.

When: April 18, 2018, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm (breakfast and lunch will be served)

Where: Midtown

 Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 4. Space is limited and will be determined on a first come first serve basis.