I should start by saying that I never thought I would write a blog post with the word "beer" in the title; however, when I came across this article in the New York Times about a nonprofit lobbying organization in Texas called "Texas Beer Freedom," I wanted to share it with all of you. I think it is an interesting example of a nonprofit that is using grassroots organizing to advocate for the passage of a bill (House Bill 660) that would allow small beer brewers to "increase production, sell to beer distributors and sell directly to stores and restaurants," which is something that small brewers in Texas are currently prohibited from doing.
The organizations' recognition of the importance of "targeting supporters, recruiting supporters, engaging supporters, [and] mobilizing the base" (Avner, 2010) is evident in its social networking efforts and public rallies. In addition, the organization has made good use of media advocacy. Its good use of media advocacy is illustrated not only in its ability to get its story published in the New York Times, but also in its use of social media to increase support for its cause - (yes, it has a Facebook page. Here's the link to it, if you're interested).
Something that was perhaps even more surprising to me than the fact that a beer-related nonprofit lobbying organization exists was the Texas Beer Freedom website, which is very user-friendly and well-suited to its organizing efforts. A quick scan of the website reveals that there are links that people can use to write to a representative and sign a petition in favor of the passage of the bill. In addition, there is another link that people can click to get ideas for organizing an event to promote the passage of the bill, and a note on the bottom of the page for people interested in organizing an event that states that there will soon be "an event packet available for download that includes a hard copy petition, talking points, and more." And that's not all! The organization even has its Twitter feed directly on its website, as well as front-and-center links to its Facebook and Twitter pages, under a caption that urges people to "Join the cause!"
Although Texas Beer Freedom is a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization, as opposed to a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, I think that many charitable organizations could learn from its advocacy efforts. It's impressive that such a relatively small organization can potentially stand up to the mighty beer distribution lobby, all because of its grassroots organizing and media advocacy.
Great post, Kate. It's important to distinguish between 501(c)3 and 501(c)4 organizations. 501(c)3 organizations can engage in lobbying and public education about issues they care about. That includes educating the public about proposed legislation, using research and studies they have conducted and advocating for and against specific legislation. Their lobbying work must not represent a substantial proportion of their activity--less than 20% of their first $500,000 of revenue, and 15% after that (generally). I'd encourage you to ready Independent Sector's brief but very helpful description of the IRS rules for 501(c)3 lobbying: http://www.independentsector.org/charity_lobbying
ReplyDeleteIn contrast, 501(c)4 organizations, known as "social welfare organizations" in the tax code, can engage in lobbying and engage in campaigns in support of or against specific legislation. Many 501(c) 3 organizations create related 501 (c)4 organizations to engage in more direct political action.