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PUBLIC POLICY

MINNESOTA BUDGET PROJECT

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

REACH MN NONPROFITS

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ABOUT MCN

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2314 University Ave. #20
St. Paul, MN 55114
Phone: 651.642.1904
Fax: 651.642.1517
Greater MN: 1.800.289.1904

Email: info@mncn.org


Upcoming Public Policy  Trainings and Events

Nonprofit Advocacy Institute Information Session

Smart, strong and effective nonprofits require smart, strong and effective policy advocates. Come learn how to enhance your advocacy skills by applying to MCN's new Nonprofit Advocacy Institute. These free informational meetings are a perfect way to see if you, your organization, and your communities can benefit from MCN's nonprofit-specific advocacy training program. These informational sessions will share information on the application process, show MCN's curriculum, faculty, and philosophy of advocacy, and detail scholarship information.

Event details:

Date: Friday, September 3,
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Candidate Events Made Easy

Want candidates to pay attention to the issues that matter to your community? Host a candidate event! This training covers all the basics of planning, organizing, and hosting a successful candidate event. From creating timelines and engaging the media, to organizing constituents and keeping it all legal as a 501(c)(3), you’ll learn how to make planning a candidate event easy and fun. Plus, the Minnesota Participation Project has mini-grants available to help decrease costs of hosting a candidate event!

Event details:

Date: Thursday, September 9
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Be Nonprofit Ready: New Nonprofit Tax Exemption Toolkit

Nonprofits that own property can apply for a property tax exemption. The exemption is intended to allow public charities to focus their resources on their mission related work. When this tax exemption was thrown into doubt by a court case, MCN worked to clarify the property tax exemption rules for nonprofits, culminating in the signing of a bill in 2009 that defined what is required for nonprofits to qualify for the property tax exemption.

With the new law enacted, it’s important that your organization understands how it works so that your next property tax exemption application is successful. Led by Rinal Ray, MCN’s former Property Tax Exemption Campaign Coordinator, together with Marcia Avner, MCN Senior Fellow, this workshop will equip you with all the tools and knowledge you’ll need to write a complete and compelling property tax exemption application.

Event details:

Date: Monday, September 20
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Civic Engagement Training Institute

Don't miss a great 3-day training opportunity for nonprofits leaders to hone their civic engagement skills. Presented by the Alliance for Children and Families and United Neighborhood Centers of America, in partnership with Family & Children's Service, the institute will:

  • Provide training and learning opportunities in civic engagement for nonprofit human service agency staff
  • Identify specific skills required to increase staff and volunteer involvement and success in civic engagement activities, especially with populations that have less access to decision makers
  • Explore pathways to develop organizational capacity to carry out civic engagement work

Event details:

Date: Monday, September 20 to Wednesday, September 22
Location: Wellstone Center at Neighborhood House, 179 Robie Street East, Saint Paul
Directions and Parking

Fee: MCN members receive a 50% discount, for a total of $100 fee for all three days!. There is no registration fee for Alliance and UNCA members. There is a $200 fee for non-members


Register and get more information
at http://www.civicengagementworks.org

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Nonprofit Advocacy Institute Information Session (Webinar)

Smart, strong and effective nonprofits require smart, strong and effective policy advocates. Learn how to enhance your advocacy skills by applying to MCN's new Nonprofit Advocacy Institute. These free informational webinars are a perfect way to see if you, your organization, and your communities can benefit from MCN's nonprofit-specific advocacy training program. These informational sessions will share information on the application process, show MCN's curriculum, faculty, and philosophy of advocacy, and detail scholarship information.

Event details:

Date: Tuesday, September 21
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Webinar

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Advocacy for the Truly Intimidated

Bring a lunch and join us for this informal conversation with MCN public policy staff. Learn ways to begin to incorporate public policy efforts into your nonprofit’s daily work. Discuss how to overcome barriers or resistance to embarking on an advocacy plan within your organization.

Event details:

Date: Friday, September 24
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Advancing Nonprofit Advocacy Across Borders

Hosted by the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) and the North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations (NDANO).

Advocacy at the state and federal levels is a key strategy for nonprofits in meeting mission. This half-day workshop is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of staff, board members and volunteers who want to engage in policy work and to address key state and federal policy issues. Topics will include advocacy tips and strategies, an introduction to the federal budget process, and state and federal policy briefings.

Details:

Date: Thursday, September 30
Time: 1 – 4 p.m.
Location: Bremer Training Room
1444 45th St. SW, Fargo, ND 58121
Map and Directions

Date: Friday, October 1
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: Bremer Training Room
3100 Columbia Rd. S, Grand Forks, ND 58201
Map and Directions

Fee: $30 for MCN and NDANO members / $50 for nonmembers

Early Registration Incentive:

Save $10 on the workshop fee by registering early – Bremer will pay $10 of the registration fee for the first 20 participants for each workshop. Limit one person per organization.


All participants will receive a copy of NDANO’s new publication, Nonprofit Advocacy: A North Dakota Toolkit.

To register:

1. Register online*:

Register for the September 30 Fargo event.
Register for the October 1 Grand Forks event.

* NDANO members, use the code "NDANO" to receive the member discount.

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.


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Nonprofit Advocacy Institute Information Session (Webinar)

Smart, strong and effective nonprofits require smart, strong and effective policy advocates. Learn how to enhance your advocacy skills by applying to MCN's new Nonprofit Advocacy Institute. These free informational webinars are a perfect way to see if you, your organization, and your communities can benefit from MCN's nonprofit-specific advocacy training program. These informational sessions will share information on the application process, show MCN's curriculum, faculty, and philosophy of advocacy, and detail scholarship information.

Event details:

Date: Wednesday, October 13
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Webinar

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Nonprofit Advocacy 101: An Introduction to the Rules Pertaining to Lobbying and Elections

Lobbying for mission-based organizations is legal! And so is engaging constituents around elections in a nonpartisan, non-profit way. As tax-exempt, 501c3 organizations, it is important to know the federal and state rules related to these activities. Come to this informative, interactive workshop to understand the “rules of the game!"

Event details:

Date: Thursday, October 14
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: $45 for MCN members / $65 for nonmembers

To register:

1. Register online:

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.


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Let’s Pass Some Bills! A Step-by-Step Guide to Turning an Idea into a Law

All laws initially originate from a mere idea. Come explore the process of taking that great idea, built on your expertise, and navigating the legislative channels to create sound public policy for the causes you are advancing in your nonprofit. Topics will include: securing a legislative author, testifying in committee, and direct and grassroots lobbying strategies for passage.

Event details:

Date: Wednesday, October 27
Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: $45 for MCN members / $65 for nonmembers

To register:

1. Register online:

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.

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Nonprofit Advocacy Institute Information Session

Smart, strong and effective nonprofits require smart, strong and effective policy advocates. Come learn how to enhance your advocacy skills by applying to MCN's new Nonprofit Advocacy Institute. These free informational meetings are a perfect way to see if you, your organization, and your communities can benefit from MCN's nonprofit-specific advocacy training program. These informational sessions will share information on the application process, show MCN's curriculum, faculty, and philosophy of advocacy, and detail scholarship information.

Event details:

Date: Thursday, October 28
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: Free, but please RSVP

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Follow the Dollars: A Guided Tour Through the State Budget Process

The state’s biennial budget funds everything from environmental protection to public safety to health care. The process includes both the public legislative process and the more behind-the-scenes development of the Governor’s budget. Advocates, community leaders, front-line staff, and members of the public will all benefit from understanding how the state’s budget process works - and how to participate in that process on behalf of the programs they care about and the people they serve. In this workshop, you will gain an understanding of:

  • The basics of the Minnesota state budget
  • The timeline for the state’s budget process
  • How the Governor's budget proposal is developed
  • How the budget travels through the Legislature
  • Opportunities for input and advocacy in the budget process

Follow the Dollars is led by Nan Madden, Director of the Minnesota Budget Project - an initiative of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. The Minnesota Budget Project is an active voice for tax fairness and a balanced approach to the state's budget that provides independent research, analysis and advocacy on budget and tax issues, emphasizing their impact on low- and moderate-income Minnesotans and the organizations that serve them.

Date: October 28, 9 a.m. - noon, St. Paul

Details for both:

Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room 2314 University Avenue, Suite 20, St. Paul 55114
Directions and Parking
Fees: $45 for MCN Members / $65 for nonmembers

To register:

1. Register online:

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.


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Follow the Federal Dollars: A Guided Tour Through the Federal Budget Process

Would you like to become a more effective advocate on federal budget and policy issues? Advocates, community leaders, front-line staff and members of the public will all benefit from understanding how the federal budget process works - and how to participate in that process on behalf of the programs they care about and the people they serve.In this workshop, you will gain an understanding of:

  • Key federal budget terms and concepts, and the basics of the federal budget
  • The timeline for the federal budget process
  • How the President's Budget is developed
  • How the Congressional Budget is developed and how it is enforced
  • Opportunities for input and advocacy in the federal budget process using some current federal issues as examples

This workshop is led by Steve Francisco, Federal Policy Director for the Minnesota Budget Project - an initiative of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. His current work includes organizing the nonprofit sector to become effective advocates with the state’s Congressional delegation on federal budget and tax policies that affect low- and moderate-income Minnesotans. With over 23 years of experience working in Washington as a Congressional staffer and lobbyist, he is familiar with a wide range of federal public policy issues. Steve earned his political science and law degrees from the University of Minnesota.

Date: October 28, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m., St. Paul

Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room 2314 University Avenue, Suite 20, St. Paul 55114
Directions and Parking
Fees: $45 for MCN Members / $65 for nonmembers

To register:

1. Register online:

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.


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 Building Power for Advocacy

Activating a strong group of supporters can be the most effective way to advance an organization’s policy interests and legislative agenda. Come to this highly interactive session to learn ways to identify, communicate, organize and mobilize for effective grassroots efforts.

Event details:

Date: Thursday, November 11
Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: $45 for MCN members / $65 for nonmembers

To register:

1. Register online:

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.

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Communications and Media Advocacy for Nonprofits

Messages for internal audiences, opinion shapers and the media, and elected officials and their staff are all important components of nonprofit advocacy. This workshop will focus on framing and developing key messages, identifying target audiences, and selecting communication modes that reach audiences in timely and persuasive ways.

Event details:

Date: Thursday, December 16
Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Location: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Conference Room
2314 University Ave W., Suite 20, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Directions and Parking

Fee: $45 for MCN members / $65 for nonmembers

To register:

1. Register online:

2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517.

3. Register by mail
- download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.

Scholarships are available!
Please read MCN's policies on refunds and substitutions.

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The Changed Political Landscape: Governing in 2011 and Beyond

Join us for our annual Session Line Up event, expanded this year into an all-day event for nonprofit advocates. The morning Session Line Up allows you to hear directly from leaders of the legislative caucuses who will share their priorities for the session, identify issues which they think will dominate the debate, and give their ideas on how nonprofits can be a resource to decision makers and their staff. The afternoon panel will cover important topics including:
  • New Governor – a new philosophy?
  • Changed Legislature – what is the new make-up?
  • Ongoing budget deficits – what is the new strategy?

Event details:

Date: Friday, January 7
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon,
1:00 – 3:00 pm
Location: Kelly Inn
Directions and Parking

Fee: Free

RSVP: Save the date now, RSVP will be live later this fall!

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Capitol Lab

Enter “the people’s house” with renewed confidence in operating in the Capitol environment. This walking tour of the state capitol complex will also include an overview of basic legislative processes, a description of the make-up of the 2011 legislature and administrative branch, as well as exploring the new political landscape.

Event details:

Date: Wednesday, January 19
Time: 9:00 a.m. -- Noon

Location: Capitol Complex, Room TBD

Fee: Free

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Advanced Advocacy: Capitol Resources

This is a highly informative seminar and “ask-the-experts” opportunity which will expand your knowledge of legislative and administrative processes. You will benefit from an all-star line-up of Capitol staff who assist both legislative members and advocates to engage in the democratic process.

Event details:

Date:Tuesday, February 15
Time: 9:00 a.m. -- Noon

Location: Capitol Complex, Room TBD

Fee: Free

RSVP: Register online now - by logging in (password assistance available) and selecting "RSVP for Free Events, Briefings and Convenings."

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Coffee with Commissioners Series

The new Governor of Minnesota will be appointment commissioners to run important state departments, such as Minnesota Management and Budget, Minnesota Department of Human Services, and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. The Commissioners appointed to head these state agencies make important decisions that relate to the work of nonprofits.

The Coffee with Commissioners Series provides an opportunity for nonprofit staff to hear directly from commissioners on how they intend to lead their agency. Check back for details as we approach February for more details on how to RSVP!

Event details:

Date:March through August, 2011
Location: TBD
Fee: Free

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2314 University Ave W. #20
St. Paul, MN 55114
Phone: 651.642.1904
Fax: 651.642.1517
Greater MN: 1.800.289.1904

Email: info@mncn.org


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