When will nonprofits learn what is common knowledge to politicians? Modern political strategy stands on three pillars: message, money, machine. The entry-level campaign strategist understands that the second two won’t come until the first pillar is set up..establish the clear message (and ideally condense it into a catchy sound bite).

Let’s face it, we have an uphill battle on money and machine. If we raise too much money--unrelated business tax, if we raise tpo little--program cuts, if we spend it promoting our cause--misuse of funds, if we hire savvy leaders—excessive compensation! If we hit the streets-unallowable costs; if we use our volunteer activists? Lobbying, If we hook up with local politicians? Loose your tax-exempt status!

But Message? There are no barriers in our way here. Who are we? What do we want to be? And once we know why we are here…what do we bring to the table? The later should be in the forefront of every givers mind.

If you are seeing a nonprofit version of a monopoly game (go directly to jail do not collect $200)…you are reading my mind.

WHEN YOU’RE UNDER A CLOUD…LOOK OVER THERE!

What to do when the message is already out there and it isn’t what you were wanting? Take a hint from the message masters: Politicians. Politicians are no strangers to scandal (did I say that with a straight face?). When they want to rebound after a scandal do they set up workshops on Accountability? NO. Do they write codes of conduct? NO. Do they hire compliance officers? Not a chance. They turn to the staple of magicians everywhere—misdirection. Give the public some compelling new vision, take their minds off the past and look toward a new future.