Advocacy & Lobbying for 501(c)(3)s (8 Oct 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Advocacy & Lobbying for 501(c)(3)s

Presented by Alex Booker of Commonlight Legal

for Martha's Vineyard Nonprofit Collaborative

Thursday October 8th, 10 - 11:30 am

Join us in welcoming back Alex Booker from Commonlight Legal for a discussion about the ins and outs of advocacy and lobbying as a nonprofit.

Many nonprofit leaders assume advocacy puts a 501(c)(3)’s tax-exempt status at risk. In reality, advocacy is often permissible, but the lobbying rules are nuanced and frequently misunderstood. This session explains the distinction between advocacy and lobbying, covers the expenditure and substantial part tests, and provides practical guidance for executive directors and board members who want to engage in policy work while staying compliant.

Presenter: Alex Booker advises nonprofits on employment, contractor, and volunteer compliance; advocacy and lobbying rules; and outside general counsel services. He brings a perspective rare in nonprofit law: he has seen employment disputes from every side of the table, supporting federal administrative adjudicators, litigating on behalf of employees and unions, and advising a Federal agency on ethics.

His firm, Commonlight Legal, traces its roots to Nonprofits Counsel, a solo nonprofit law practice started in 2021. Since then, Commonlight Legal has grown into a multi-practice firm serving mission-driven organizations, charter schools, independent schools, and nonprofits across four jurisdictions.

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https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6585316212?omn=84686022694

Meeting ID: 658 531 6212

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Martha's Vineyard Nonprofit Collaborative upcoming events

Advocacy & Lobbying for 501(c)(3)s (8 Oct 2026)

Advocacy & Lobbying for 501(c)(3)s

Presented by Alex Booker of Commonlight Legal

for Martha's Vineyard Nonprofit Collaborative

Thursday October 8th, 10 - 11:30 am