Andrea McManus is Chair of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). The AFP represents more than 30,000 members in 230 chapters throughout the world, including more than 3,000 Canadian fundraisers, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. For more information, Governments benefit by advice from non-profits.
by Andrea McManus
Recently, the issue of nonprofit organizations being able to lobby the government has come under some criticism, with cries for reducing how much they can dialogue with the government or even eliminating their ability to do so altogether.
Such proposals fail to see the importance and wisdom of nonprofits in the government process. The truth is, only a small percentage of nonprofits actually engage in advocacy. More, not fewer, should be involved in this process, helping the government to develop sound and balanced public policy while inspiring more Canadians to get involved in our civic process.
class=”style2″>Nonprofits strengthen our civic tradition of participation by providing information and analysis.