Some would argue that charitable 501(c)(3) organizations are the “sleeping giants” of the democratic process. These community organizations have credibility, trust, and access to potential voters who are often disengaged from the electoral process. As such, they can be the catalyst for a dramatic increase in voter participation through legal, permissible, nonpartisan voter mobilization activities-- voter registration, voter education, and get-out-the-vote (GOTV).
Minnesota Participation Project Resources
- Election Cycle Dos and Don'ts for 501(c)(3)s
This handout gives a basic overview of what is and is not permissible voter mobilization activity for 501(c)(3) nonprofits. This sheet is not intended to replace legal counsel obtained by your agency; however, it can help you generate some ideas about how your organization will get involved.
- How to Stay Nonpartisan in the Workplace
Nonprofit staff members are frequently involved in campaigns or asked to support candidates. Since nonprofit staff is involved in community affairs, they may want to support a candidate who has helped their organization or neighborhood. What you or another staff member does in personal time is a private choice. However, a staff member cannot be seen as representing the organization on a campaign nor may they use organizational resources for a candidate.
Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network Resources
- Nonprofits, Voting and Elections
An online guide to nonpartisan voter participation activities for 501(c)(3) organizations. This guide is primarily for nonprofit organizations organized as 501(c)(3) charities. It is not intended for private foundations or for non-charitable entities. The term “nonprofit” in this guide refers to 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The guide is meant to be used by 501(c)(3)s interested in encouraging voting and voter participation among their staff, board, clients, constituents and communities.
Alliance for Justice Publications
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