Elections present a great opportunity to connect with current and future elected officials. Whether you’re engaging candidates for local, state, or national office, campaigns allow your nonprofit to build relationships, share policy ideas, and influence future debate. There are plenty of nonpartisan ways to connect with candidates--including candidate forums and questionnaires, sharing your research, or inviting candidates to your events. Don’t be shy--get to know the candidates!
Hosting a Candidate Forum
This guide features helpful instructions on hosting a candidate forum, including to-do lists, do's and don'ts, and a planning timeline. It includes tips on how to attract candidates, select a format, publicize the event, and ensure your forum stays nonpartisan.
Factsheets
Candidate Appearances at Your Nonprofit Event
What Nonprofit Staff Can Do
Working with Candidates
Webinars and Presentations
Hosting a Candidate Forum
Hosting a nonpartisan candidate forum gives your nonprofit the opportunity to educate candidates on the issues that matter to your organization and the communities you support. Hosting or co-sponsoring a candidate forum can also help your organization build relationships with future elected officials, making it easier to hold them accountable and giving you greater access to them once in office. Learn more about techniques for organizing an effective candidate forum, how to stay nonpartisan throughout the process, and about tools to help you every step of the way
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Online Training: Hosting a Candidate Forum
In just 15 minutes, you can get a comprehensive look at the steps for planning and hosting a successful nonpartisan candidate forum!
