Why Animal Advocates Need a 501(c)(4): Allie Taylor of Voters for Animal Rights

Most animal welfare organizations are 501(c)(3) nonprofits.  But in this episode, we talk about why advocates focused on law and policy should think about starting a 501(c)(4) instead.  If you find all those IRS code section references confusing (or boring), this episode will clarify the difference and show you what a 501(c)(4) can accomplish politically that a 501(c)(3) can't. Allie Taylor is the founder and president of Voters for Animal Rights and, under her leadership VFAR has racked up nearly a dozen legislative wins for animals in New York over the past 10 years. In this conversation, we go through what made those wins possible and what those wins have changed for animals in New York. In this episode, you'll learn: The legal and practical difference between a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(4) How VFAR uses candidate endorsements to build relationships with elected officials The story behind New York City's foie gras ban and the litigation keeping it from being enforced How a law banning the sale of guinea pigs in pet stores drove a 70% drop in shelter surrenders How VFAR holds elected officials accountable for the commitments they make on the campaign trail Why Allie thinks animal advocates spend too much time protesting and not enough time phone banking Key Takeaway: If you want to change the law for animals, you need an organization that can endorse and oppose candidates, and that means a 501(c)(4). If you want to move policy in your community, or build the skills to do it well, you can access the free private audio series on the Four Cs at AnimalAdvocacyAcademy.com/fourcs.