Demystifying Advocacy: What is it and how do I fit it into my busy schedule?
About the Event
Advocacy? Sure, I’d love to see the universal charitable deduction or the IRA charitable rollover provision enhanced and strengthened, and I don’t want nonprofit postage rates to climb too high? But I’m also busy as a fundraiser and what do I know about advocacy?” Sound familiar? If you want to make sure that government helps—not hinders—fundraising and philanthropy, but aren’t sure what you can do about it, join Michael Nilsen, Vice President, Public Policy at AFP Global, in this fast-paced, presentation about how you can use your skills as a fundraiser to cultivate your elected officials to advance your organization’s mission—without taking time away from your daily responsibilities.
Join the conversation with Michael in this online meeting. You will get the chance to ask questions and hear how other fundraisers are getting involved in advocacy.
A Zoom meeting link will be sent to you closer to the event. Please watch your email for the link.
Event Details
Michael Nilsen serves as vice president, communications and public policy, for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), which works to advance ethical and effective fundraising and represents more than 26,000 charities and charitable fundraisers around the world.
Mr. Nilsen has been with AFP for more than two decades and oversees all communications efforts for the association, working in everything from government affairs and public policy to media relations, marketing, awards, and social media. He was the first full-time lobbyist for the association, advocating in Congress, the Canadian Parliament and various state and provincial legislatures across North America on public policy issues related to fundraising and the charitable sector.
He then turned his efforts to helping increase AFP’s profile in the media and the public. He has rapidly expanded AFP’s awards and National Philanthropy Day programs, developed new research projects and communications vehicles, and managed AFP’s conference plenary sessions, among many other duties.
Mr. Nilsen has returned to AFP’s public policy department, working to enhance the association’s advocacy and lobbying programs. He is also creating new outreach grassroots initiatives to encourage AFP members and nonprofits around the world to become more engaged in government relations.
Prior to joining AFP, Mr. Nilsen worked as a lobbyist for Marlowe & Company where he assisted municipal and nonprofit clients on issues ranging from tax and environment policy to community development and airline safety regulations. He also served in the office of Congressman J.J. Pickle (D-TX), advising the Congressman on issues related to crime, immigration and other issues.
REGISTER TO ATTEND TODAY!
Please note that registration is required to attend events. If the cost of an event is a barrier for you in any way, please send an email to Jen to register. Include the following information in your registration email: Name of event, full name, email, address, and organization (if applicable). You will receive a confirmation email and you are all set!
