Power in Policy: A Funder's Guide to Advocacy and Civic Participation

Powerful tools for achieving your philanthropic mission Why should funders try to shape public policy? Simply put, it's the only way to affect the laws that determine how people will be treated, what services will be provided, and what behaviors are acceptable. But what role should foundations play? Power in Policy, written primarily by foundation practitioners for foundations, is the first book that: Makes a strong case for why advocacy and civic participation are fundamental roles for foundations Shares insights, lessons, and perspectives from foundation leaders and legal and philanthropic experts on how to engage in and incorporate advocacy into philanthropy Answers frequently asked questions including, "How does my foundation assess various risks?" "How do we organizationally prepare for public policy work and develop advocacy strategies?" Gives rich case stories of how private and community foundations--including large and small foundations--are meeting their missions through public policy and civic activity Presents clearly and concisely key principles and legal rules Provides a toolkit for foundations to develop the capacity to engage in advocacy at their own speed and resource level How to get involved From big picture concerns--like the risks and rewards of advocacy--to specifics such as legal rules, this guide shows what advocacy means in terms of work and outcomes and how foundations can develop and launch their own public policy activities. Power in Policy is a must-have for foundations who want to have a long-term impact on the communities and causes they care about.