Nonprofit Day at the Capitol

Another important issue to watch this Session is regarding the recent reforms to the federal tax code which will have a direct impact on Montana’s tax code. MNA will be watching for and advocating against changes that may negatively impact the nonprofit sector in our state.

Our advocacy is only as strong as our visibility. Join us!

Nonprofit Day at the Capitol includes:

• Release of the 2019 Montana Nonprofit Economic Impact Report
• Roadmap for renewal of the Montana Charitable Endowment Tax Credit
• Celebration of Montana's nonprofit sector with guest speakers in the Rotunda
• Lunch with Legislators

Nonprofit Day also gives nonprofit leaders a chance to meet 1:1 with legislators and attend hearings and sessions.

Lunch is free of charge but please register so that we have a name badge, ample food, and space. And remember to invite your legislators!

Register today to celebrate our sector, rally behind the renewal of the Montana Endowment Tax Credit, and remind policy makers of the power of our voice. Join your colleagues in the rotunda on January 17th to raise the voice and visibility of Montana's nonprofit sector.

8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Rotunda Opens. Display tables will be set in each corner of the rotunda. You may provide up to 25 copies of one item to create awareness of your mission. We recommend bringing collateral that is post card size or smaller so that it is easy to hand to legislators during lunch. Space does not allow for table-top displays. 

8:00 AM -12:00 PM

Hearings/meetings with legislators. Hearings will be taking place throughout the morning. The hearing schedule will be available at the information desk or go HERE to plan your morning. To meet with your legislator, schedule ahead of time by contacting her or him directly. Here are tips for contacting legislators. Please also find sample Legislator Invites at the bottom of this page.

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Legislative Overview/Q&A with MNA (Rotunda)
For those not attending hearings, join MNA for an informative overview of the key issues MNA will be monitoring and acting on during the session.

• Learn about advocacy efforts for the renewal of the Montana Charitable Endowment Tax Credit and how you can be involved.
• Review the new 2019 Montana Nonprofit Economic Report.
• Communicate with MNA and your colleagues about what is uppermost on your mind as you engage in the 2019 Legislative Session.

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Many Missions -- One Voice (Capitol Rotunda)
Celebrate your work! The rotunda will be filled with table displays, banners, and signs that tell the story of the nonprofit sector in Montana. Guest speakers and dignitaries will be present to celebrate Montana's vibrant nonprofit sector.

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Lunch with Legislators -- (Capitol Rotunda)
Invite your policy makers! This will be a great opportunity to visit with your legislators to let them know about the importance of your work and the vital role of the nonprofit sector in Montana. Legislators need your advice and perspective to make policy decisions that support the well-being of the nonprofit sector. Drop your legislators a note ahead of time, tell them you will be there, and invite them to lunch.

Formal activities end after lunch. Make the most of your day at the Capitol by scheduling additional meetings or attending hearings throughout the afternoon. Take time to ensure your legislators know you are present. They will appreciate your reaching out. 

Making the Most of Nonprofit Day -- Please join Executive Director Liz Moore for a Nonprofit Day at the Capitol Conference Call on Tuesday, January 8, 8:30 am. The call will allow you to:

• Overview MNA's current policy issues so that in addition to the message you convey to your legislator about your own organization and community, you can speak to issues impacting the whole nonprofit sector if you wish.
• Request information or ask questions about your rights and ability to lobby.
• Get the knowledge you need about what to expect regarding the schedule and how to prepare before coming to the Capitol in order to make the most of your time here. Conference call number:  866-740-1260    Passcode:  4493717

• First, register your organization for Nonprofit Day at the Capitol. Remember, the event is free but we need to ensure space and food for all -- and a name badge.
• Parking at the Capitol Campus can be difficult. We suggest parking at the Capitol Hill Town Center and taking the Capitol Shuttle.
• Bring up to 25 copies of one promotional item for display (brochure, annual report, etc.) as a part of Nonprofit Showcase.
• Bring your business card.
• View the Committee Hearing Schedule and learn what Legislators are on what Committees.
• Find out what Bills are up for debate.
• Check out this helpful Guide to the Montana Legislature. And, Having Your Say Before a Montana Legislative Committee.
• Invite your colleagues to make the trip to Helena for the event.
• Invite your Legislators whether you are attending Nonprofit Day at the Capitol or not.

Please modify so that it works for you. Invites may be issued as formal letters, emails, or made by phone call.

If you will be attending Montana Nonprofit Day at the Capitol: 

Hi Representative/Senator_______________________, my name is __________________ and I work for ____________________ in _________________.

You are invited to Nonprofit Day and Lunch in the Rotunda on Thursday, January 17^th at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon is hosted by the Montana Nonprofit Association, which represents over 650 nonprofits from across the state. I will be there along with other nonprofit leaders from around Montana. I hope you come by to ask questions, learn more about our work, and enjoy a lunch. Can we count on you to join us?

Thank you for serving the people of Montana. I hope to see you there.

If you are unable to attend – you are encourage to contact your legislator and let him/her know this day is important to you. Here is a suggested script:

Hi Representative/Senator_______________________, my name is __________________ and I work for ____________________ in _________________.

You are invited to Nonprofit Day at the Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, January 17th. The event is hosted by Montana Nonprofit Association, which represents over 650 nonprofits from across the state. Our organization cannot be there, but I’m calling to invite you because this is an important event to us. Nonprofit leaders will be available to answer questions, tell you about their work in the community, and treat you to a great lunch. If you have time, I hope you stop by.

Thank you for serving the people of Montana.

Be seen and heard as a community with many missions, one voice.

Nonprofit Day at the Capitol is generously sponsored by MNA partner and supporter, Anderson Zurmuehlen & Co.