Advocacy by 501(c)(4)s – Part 1

On this episode, we walk through the ins and outs on why you’d want to form a 501(c)(4) to get things done as a nonprofit advocate. Because (c)(4)s are effectively the multi-tool of nonprofits, they can do a lot more than you might even think. But is it the right choice for your needs? 

Our Hosts for This Episode:

Tim Mooney Ronnie Pawelko Leslie Barnes

Topics:

• What is a 501(c)(4)?
• How to figure out if a nonprofit is a (c)(4)
• Why would you want a (c)(4)?
• Benefits of a (c)(4)
• Downsides/Costs of a (c)(4)
• Should I Form One?

Resources 

Why create a 501(c)(4)? 

• 501(c)(4) Strategy and Discussion Guide 
• Considering Starting a 501(c)4? Case Studies 
• Primer on Social Welfare Organizations: Using 501(c)(4) Organizations for Good 
• Power of Collaboration 
• Starting a 501(c)(4) organization 

How to operate a 501(c)(4) 

• The Connection 

Comparison of 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) permissible activities 

• Accountability Advocacy: How 501(c)(4)s Can Hold Elected Officials Accountable for Their Actions 
• Why (c)(3)s and (c)(4)s need to work collaboratively 
• Sample Timesheets 
• Sample Cost Allocation Agreement 
• Life Cycle of a Social Welfare Organization | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov) 

Contact Us

• Bolder Advocacy’s TA hotline: online form or 866-NP-LOBBY 
• Email us at advocacy@afj.org