NONPROFIT INSTITUTE EightH Annual Nonprofit Institute Conference Growing Relationship with Elected Officials February 22, 2019 Bob Carpenter, President & CEO

Why? How? When? With whom? Finally Questions?

Why do I need to develop or grow a relationship with elected officials? They could be responsible for some or all of your funding. They are responsible for enacting laws and/or regulations by which you will need to adhere. Or laws or regulations that could make your job easier. They can direct you to others who may be able to help YOU. They are community leaders who can help you spread the word about your organization. You are their constituent. They want/need to hear from you.

How do I develop or grow a relationship with elected officials? Call their office. Tell them you want to come meet with them to introduce yourself. Tell them why you want to meet, AND A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR ORGANIZATION. But: Don’t attend a fundraiser and expect a meeting. Don’t attend a Town Hall and expect a meeting. Remember they are people with lives and families.

When do I need to develop or grow a relationship with elected officials? Immediately. Don’t wait until you need something, or there is a crisis. Be proactive.

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? All of Them!

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Federal officials State officials Local officials County Municipal Others Who does your nonprofit represent/advocate for? Look for connections.

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Southern Maryland’s Federal officials Senator Ben Cardin Senator Chris Van Hollen Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-5)

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Southern Maryland’s State officials Senator Thomas V. “Mike” Miller (27) Delegate Elizabeth G. “Susie” Proctor (27A) Delegate Michael A. Jackson (27B) Delegate Mark N. Fisher (27C)

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Southern Maryland’s State officials Senator Thomas M. “Mac” Middleton (28) Delegate Sally Y. Jameson (28) Delegate Edith J. Patterson (28) Delegate C. T. Wilson (28)

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Southern Maryland’s State officials Senator Stephen M. Waugh (29) Delegate James Matthew “Matt” Morgan (29A) Delegate Deborah C. Rey (29B) Delegate Gerald W. “Jerry” (29C)

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Southern Maryland’s local officials County level Commissioners Sheriff Register of Wills Clerk of the Circuit Court State’s Attorney Treasurer Board of Education Municipal level Mayor City/Town Councilmembers

Which elected officials do I need to develop or grow a relationship with? Others Who Chairs the Senate/House Committee responsible for those you represent/advocate for? Who Chairs the Senate/House Subcommittee(s) responsible for those you represent/advocate for? Does your County Commission/Municipal Council have committees? Who is most responsible for those you represent/advocate for? While not elected…Who in the Administration is most responsible for those you represent/advocate for? Again, while not elected…Who is your local government (County/Municipal) is most responsible for those you represent/advocate for?

Finally… Be on time (early) Be flexible Be concise and to the point Do your homework Make sure you are speaking to the correct person No is an answer

Questions