Public Policy: Get Involved

The District to D.C. Advocacy Network harnesses the power of United Philanthropy Forum’s nearly 100 philanthropy-serving organization (PSO) members and their foundation networks, creating an active culture of sector public policy engagement from coast to coast.

The Advocacy Network makes this possible by mobilizing and engaging thousands of PSO professionals, foundation leaders, and sector advocates in a coordinated and collaborative fashion.

Designed intentionally for PSOs and their foundation members, the Network catalyzes initiatives encompassing national days of action, D.C. fly-ins, regular programming, and much more.

Collage picturing different members at Forum events

PSO Engagement Touchpoints

The District to D.C. Advocacy Network provides various touchpoints of engagement for PSOs and the broader philanthropic sector. This unique setup allows for a consistent, concerted, and active approach to the advocacy process, making the Forum the leading advocate for the sector.

Federal Advocacy Action Assemblies

Federal Advocacy Action Assemblies are quarterly check-ins featuring comprehensive updates and analysis on legislative issues impacting the sector at the federal level, open discussion on current policy hot topics, and timely tips on public policy best practices for PSOs and their members.

State and Local Policy Alliance

The State and Local Policy Alliance convenes bi-monthly meetings for Forum members interested in and/or working on state and local-level public policy issues. During these open dialogues, PSOs will be encouraged to introduce and discuss their state and local work, share best practices, and develop coordinated strategies.

Public Policy Peer Community

The Public Policy Peer Community offers quarterly programming dedicated to advocacy and public policy, providing PSO members opportunities to learn, exchange information, and collaborate on shared priorities.

Check Out The Peer Community

Philanthropy Advocacy Circles

Philanthropy Advocacy Circles* are member-driven coalitions within the Forum network designed to focus and engage on specific public policy and advocacy issues. Advocacy Circles leverage the breadth of experience and expertise within the network, allowing for a strategic and collective approach toward tackling specific issues. (*Philanthropy Advocacy Circles are on a brief hiatus during the Forum's interim leadership period.)

Learn About Philanthropy Advocacy Circles

How We Connect

Through regularly updated materials, collaboration opportunities, and engagement activities, the District to D.C. Advocacy Network provides multiple ways for PSO professionals and their foundation members to stay informed and connected.

Philanthropy + Policy Update

The Philanthropy + Policy Update provides announcements, analysis, and breaking news about public policy issues impacting the sector and the communities we work with and in. The Forum’s general newsletter, Forum Bits, often includes a Public Policy Brief.

See The Latest Philanthropy + Policy Update

Public Policy Listserv

The Public Policy Listserv is an exclusive space for Forum Public Policy Peer Community members to exchange ideas and updates. To join, submit your email address on the form at the bottom of the Our Networks page.

Access the Public Policy Listserv

Policy + Advocacy Resource Library

The Public Policy Resources page features toolkits, guides, and issue briefs developed for PSOs and their foundation members. It also highlights recent policy news, the Forum’s statements on policy issues, and letters to federal officials.

Explore The Policy + Advocacy Resource Library

Policy + Advocacy Liaisons (PALs)

Policy + Advocacy Liaisons (PALs) are designated PSO staff who serve as their organization's lead policy and advocacy representative. PALs help inform sector peers about pertinent issues and efforts, coordinate fly-ins and other opportunities, and mobilize their networks.

Member Governance

The Public Policy Committee is made up of CEOs and public policy leaders from across the Forum network, including some Board members. The committee assists in governing the Forum's government relations and public policy, coordinating initiatives for members, and developing advocacy messaging and strategies.

Learn More About the Public Policy Committee

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