Date Available
5-28-2025
Year of Publication
2025
Document Type
Graduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration
College
Graduate School
Department/School/Program
Public Administration
Faculty
Dr. Jeongyoon Lee
Committee Member
Dr. Annelise Russell
Faculty
Prof. Michael Childress
Abstract
Advocacy refers to activities undertaken with the intent of influencing policy change. For nonprofit organizations, advocacy can be a critical aspect of furthering their mission. Successful advocacy requires a comprehensive, dynamic understanding of the needs and priorities of stakeholders, as well as an understanding of the political context in which the organization operates and the challenges and opportunities that context poses for its institutional goals. A policy agenda helps nonprofit organizations identify and communicate the most pertinent policy needs for consideration when making decisions around advocacy.
For this project, in response to a request from United Way of The Bluegrass (UWBG), we aim to conduct systematic research to inform the development of a federal policy agenda that the agency can use in advocacy activities with federal lawmakers. Coinciding with a transition in federal administration beginning in early 2025, our project will facilitate communication with federal legislators in a changing and uncertain political landscape and therefore may take on increased significance. Our analysis will focus on examining the political landscape in which UWBG operates and identifying federal programs, policies and initiatives that are most relevant to the needs of its clients, specifically in relation to financial stability. This will provide an evidence-based foundation for specific advocacy recommendations. We also aim to ensure that our recommendations are informed by the unique history and structure of United Way, one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit actors. Our research question is as follows:
In the current and recent political environment, how can United Way of the Bluegrass most effectively advocate at the federal level for social welfare policies to improve financial stability for ALICE individuals and families?
Recommended Citation
Abney, Jefferson and Hurst, Lou, "Targeted Federal Advocacy for Financial Stability: Recommendations for United Way of the Bluegrass" (2025). MPA/MPP/MPFM Capstone Projects. 454.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/mpampp_etds/454
