Episode 5 – Nonprofit Advocacy and the Power of Policy Change
Host: May Harris, Esq.
Guest: Pat Libby, Nonprofit Consultant and Author
“You have your customers, who are the people who pay for your services, the clients who receive the services, and your constituents who care about your services, and sometimes those three categories can be completely different.”
— Pat Libby
Using Your Voice: Nonprofit Advocacy and the Power of Policy
Advocacy isn’t a bonus, it’s often a necessity. In this episode, May Harris speaks with Pat Libby, a nonprofit management consultant and author, about how nonprofits can engage in advocacy and lobbying to drive meaningful change. From practical governance tips to real examples of grassroots policy wins, Pat breaks down what every board member and nonprofit leader should know about using their voice, and their bylaws, strategically.
In This Episode
A time-stamped guide to what you’ll hear.
[00:57] Pat’s background and the pitfalls of relying on generic internet advice about bylaws
[07:16] The services Pat provides to nonprofits and why lobbying is a powerful tool
[12:44] Her book Empowered Citizens Guide and stories of laws her students helped pass
[22:51] Which nonprofits can (and should) lobby, and what it actually costs
[26:27] The role of bylaws and strategic planning in strong governance
[33:11] Why collaboration with other nonprofits leads to greater impact
Key Takeaways
Insightful moments and lessons from the conversation.
Advocacy is legal and powerful. Many nonprofits don’t realize they can lobby, or how effective it can be.
Bylaws are foundational. Your governing documents are tools, not just formalities. Use them strategically.
Don’t work alone. Partnering with other nonprofits can multiply your influence and drive real legislative change.
Guest Bio: Pat Libby
Pat Libby is a nonprofit consultant, author, and former director of the Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego. With decades of experience helping organizations improve their governance, strategic planning, and advocacy efforts, Pat is a champion for mission-driven policy work. She is the author of The Empowered Citizens Guide: 10 Steps to Passing a Law That Matters to You and a trusted voice in nonprofit leadership and civic engagement.
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