Each month, the Social Good Blog highlights news and resources on a specific topic. In November, we’re resources on how nonprofits can keep citizens engaged during periods of transition in addition to a few ways that individuals can help.
Individuals:
According to the Pew Research Center, there is significant overlap between people who are civically engaged and those who keep up with the local news on a regular basis. The study, which was released earlier this month, states that although these habits may directly drive local voter turnout, there is no connection between this behavior and the national elections.
Volunteer: Organizations like Rock the Vote and your local board of elections are always looking for people to help register voters or assist at the actual polls.
Nonprofits:
Several weeks ago, Goodwill Industries International’s Advocate blog, featured information on the benefits of voting with help from our friends at Nonprofit Vote. You can also keep their one page guide handy for future events.
An article that appeared on Forbes last week, Rich Harwood of the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, who is being featured as a guest columnist on the social good blog series later this month, focuses on creating stronger communities by encouraging local leaders to meet individuals where they are and to truly listen to their concerns.
The Independent Sector recently released the United for Charity report in which voters shared their desire to see better collaboration between the federal government and the charitable sector when addressing the public’s concerns. Among the highlights, researchers found that “74 percent trust charities with their checkbooks over the federal government and want to see expanded access to charitable giving.”
Ever wonder how your nonprofit can compete with candidates in regards to fundraising during an election year? Seven high profile experts weigh in how causes can still make an impact during a crowded campaign season.
For future planning, United Way offers high level suggestions on how organizations can connect with election candidates and how staff can assist on and off the clock among other considerations.
