Building Relationships for Individual CFs

Delegation Engagement

The Challenge:

At VSA, we believe advocacy is built on relationships, not just requests. Meeting with policymakers should start by establishing trust: who you are, what you do, and why it matters — well before making any “asks.” It’s vitally important – particularly for the nonprofit sector, which doesn’t get involved in campaigns or fundraising and so has limited political levers to pull – to explain who you are before you come to the Hill with an ask. This is the approach VSA takes with its philanthropy clients.

We’ve applied this philosophy to support individual CFs seeking deeper engagement with their delegations. This includes The New York Community Trust, Communities Foundation of Texas, Community Foundation of Utah, Greater Washington Community Foundation, and The Chicago Community Trust. This outreach has helped to ensure the CF sector is seen as a trusted resource by their elected officials.

Examples of our work with individual CFs include:

  • Major National CF: Beyond CFAI participation, we have provided tailored strategy to one of the nation’s largest community foundations for more than a decade, helping its leadership and program staff build durable relationships on Capitol Hill.

  • Greater Washington Community Foundation: On an ongoing basis, we have supported engagement on DC budget priorities and positioned the CF as a critical resource to local and federal policymakers.

  • Statewide CF in the West: Experiencing rapid growth, this foundation sought to introduce itself to its delegation. We arranged two full days of meetings in Washington with no legislative “asks,” simply building trust and awareness of their role as one of the state’s largest grantmakers.

These efforts ensure elected officials view CFs as trusted partners in strengthening communities and develop Capitol Hill champions for the sector.

Brand Building and Strategic Communications: Community Foundation Awareness Initiative

Highlighting Grantee Successes to Influence Policy: Private Foundation