My picks for groups doing great things in advocacy, how they can strengthen your advocacy game, and why I think you should consider engaging. From free programming and networking to larger time and financial investment, these organizations provide wide and diverse opportunities. Gain resources, engage with a strong network, hone leadership skills, and/or give back. I’m sure there is something here to fit your budget and ‘personal training and professional development’ needs!
American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): If you work for an association you don’t want to overlook this group of over 50,000 members representing ~7,500 associations! With a strong community and subgroups for curated connections and content, ASAE is a great value! Serves both national and state associations with a wide array of interests and job roles.
https://www.asaecenter.org/resources
National Institute of Lobbying and Ethics: For lobbyists. Events, networking and certificate program. Individual, small firm and large firm membership options.
https://www.lobbyinginstitute.com/
PAC Pals (no website): Free and fun crowd-sourced group of PAC professionals. Socials let you post jobs, ask questions, find networking events, and engage with smaller ad-hoc groups (fundraisers, health PACs, first Friday and first Thursday coffee and lunch groups, etc.)!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pacpals/
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4010753/
Public Affairs Council: Top-tier, signature industry events; annual research reports and surveys; job boards; access to experts; networking, Political Involvement Network community. I personally love their optional Membership+ program that allows your entire organization to participate in tons of online programs for one price!
https://pac.org/
The Advocacy Association: A mash-up of three networking organizations (GAIN, GPN and ALN) TAA offers free and low-cost advocacy programming and networking. TAA’s 20 in 2024 annual awards program recognizes up-and-coming and veteran advocacy stars.
https://advocacyassociation.org/
Washington Area State Relations Group (WASRG or AKA ‘washrag’) Originally designed for DMV-based practitioners who work on state government relations. Monthly “inside the dome” online programming that brings state leaders to the table for off-the-record, candid conversations, plus fun outings, and networking opportunities.
https://www.wasrg.com/
Women in Government Relations (WGR) If you work in government relations and want a strong network of women mentors, supporters, and friends, join WGR. Many leadership opportunities in the volunteer-led issue task forces and committees await . Signature events connect the women of GR with officials and an array of access, learning and professional development options.
https://www.wgr.org/