Vermont Nonprofit Advocacy Resources & Talking Points

RESOURCES & TALKING POINTS

Developed to support Vermont Nonprofit Legislative Day on February 11th 2010 and related independent sector advocacy:

> Guide for Getting Started at the State House Nonprofit Advocacy Resources (Snelling Center for Government)
- VT Legislative Directory
- Directory of Vermont Lobbyists Working on Behalf of Vermont's Independent Sector
- VT House of Representatives Rules and Orders- Permanent Rules of the Vermont Senate
- State Employee Online Directory
- Legislative Bill Tracking Checklist

> General Legislative Resources

> Public Policy & Advocacy Resources (Maine Association of Nonprofits)

More on Vermont Nonprofit Legislative Day on February 11th 2010

TALKING POINTS: BENEFITS OF VERMONTS NONPROFIT SECTOR

Who is Vermont's Independent Sector and Why is it Important? Vermont Nonprofit Legislative Day on 2/11 provides the opportunity to put a human face on the role of the sector in the state. Vermont’s independent sector is largely responsible for the care of our local communities and the people who need it the most. The range of services is broad--community action, energy efficiency, food security, workforce development, child and family services, senior centers, community health providers, refugee assistance, schools and are delivered within local and regional community settings by staff and volunteers of Vermont’s 2700+ active nonprofit organizations. These organizations generate more than four billion dollars in revenue each year, yet struggle to meet community demands for service

What is the Future for Vermont's Independent Sector? The state depends on Vermont’s nonprofits to bear the brunt in cuts to human services, environmental protection, culture, education and health care. Vermont's nonprofits weave a safety net of services now unraveling from the weak economy and budget cuts. Without strong local organizations, thousands of Vermonters are at risk of losing their vital connection to food, heat, health care, and education-- creating larger problems for the state. This year's budget shortfalls threaten all state services--particularly for low and moderate income people.

 What is the Key Message? Vermont nonprofits produce results and stand together so that the sector is a force to be reckoned. Together, Vermont's nonprofit sector can impress the Legislature with its determination to provide high quality service to the people and communities of the state.