Advocacy, Lobbying & Legislative Engagement: Preparing for the 2027 Session

December 10, 2026 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM (MST)

Description

When lawmakers make decisions that affect your organization and the people you serve, will your voice be part of the conversation? 

Advocacy is one of the most powerful tools nonprofits have to advance their missions, yet many organizations are uncertain about what activities are permitted and where the line is between advocacy and lobbying.

This interactive workshop will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to effectively engage in the policymaking process. 

The first hour will feature training from the Utah Nonprofits Association, covering how 501(c)(3) organizations can participate in advocacy efforts, the rules governing nonprofit engagement in public policy, and the key differences between advocacy and lobbying. 

After a short break, Mindy B. Young, CEO of Constructive Alchemy, will share practical insights drawn from her extensive advocacy experience in Utah. Participants will learn what to expect when meeting with legislators, participating in advocacy efforts at the Capitol, and testifying before legislative committees. This session will provide valuable tips for communicating effectively and confidently sharing your organization's expertise and stories with policymakers. 

Finally, we will focus on preparing attendees for Nonprofit Day on the Hill on January 21. We'll walk through what to expect during the event, how to prepare for conversations with legislators, and strategies for making the most of your time at the Capitol.

Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to strengthen your skills, planning to testify during the legislative session, or preparing for Nonprofit Day on the Hill, you'll leave with a clearer understanding of how 501(c)(3) organizations can engage in advocacy, practical tools for working with policymakers, and greater confidence to champion the issues that matter most to your organization and community.

Agenda:

Advocacy and Lobbying 101 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Learn the fundamentals of advocacy and lobbying, including what 501(c)(3) organizations can do to engage in public policy and advance their missions.

Advocacy is About Relationships | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 
Learn how the Utah legislative process works, how to testify as an expert in your field, and how building lasting relationships with the people who shape policy is the key to effective advocacy.  Gain practical insights into engaging with legislators, advocating at the Capitol, and effectively testifying during legislative committee meetings and sessions.

Prepare for Nonprofit Day on the Hill | 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Learn what to expect, how to prepare for legislative meetings, and how to make the most of your experience at the Capitol.

This training is FREE for UNA members. While Nonprofit Day on the Hill is for UNA Nonprofit Members only, everyone is welcome to attend the training. 

When: Thursday, December 10, 2026 | 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Where: Online via Zoom (This session will be recorded and a copy of the recording will be sent out to all registrants)

Cost: 
Free for UNA Members
$30 for Not-Yet-Members

Who Should Attend?:
This workshop is designed for anyone interested in advocacy and public policy, particularly nonprofit leaders, staff, board members, and volunteers who are new to the legislative process. Whether you're just beginning to explore advocacy or looking to better understand how your organization can engage in public policy efforts, this introductory training will help you build foundational knowledge, understand key concepts, and gain the confidence to effectively advocate for your mission and the communities you serve.

About the Speakers

Jill Bennett is the CEO of the Utah Nonprofits Association (UNA) and a leading advocate for Utah’s nonprofit sector. Since joining UNA in 2017, she has worked closely with nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders to advance public policies that strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. Drawing on two decades of leadership experience and a background in business and finance, Jill is a trusted voice on issues affecting the charitable sector, including nonprofit sustainability, civic engagement, and public policy. She is passionate about helping nonprofits effectively tell their stories, engage in advocacy, and shape policies that improve lives across Utah.

Mindy B. Young is an experience producer, educator, and advocate who brings people together to create meaningful, community-centered impact. As the CEO of Constructive Alchemy, she blends creative vision with strategic leadership across the nonprofit, education, and arts sectors. Mindy is a Benefit Auctioneer, a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and sought-after corporate speaker who specializes in organizational development, team building, and leadership alignment. Her career in education spans pre-k to High School as well as roles at UVU, SUU and U of U, where she focused on theatre, public speaking, teacher training, program development, and ESL instruction. With over 20 years of experience in producing, directing, and performing, Mindy has led high-profile events including the Allies Gala during her tenure as Managing Director at Equality Utah, which featured national voices such as Gloria Steinem, Tig Notaro, and the Indigo Girls. Above all, Mindy is deeply motivated by connection, purpose, and is most proud of being mom to five fantastic boys.

Location

Online