A Monthly Space for Nonprofit Advocacy across the Triad


We’re brewing something new for the Triad nonprofit community. The Collective Cup intends to bring together nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers from across the Triad for participant-driven conversations focused on policy, advocacy, and shared problem-solving.


No agenda. No presentations. Just real conversations shaped by what matters most to you.


Each gathering will be grounded in a simple guiding question to spark discussion. For example: What policy change would have the greatest impact on the communities you serve?

We’re planning to meet monthly, rotating locations between Greensboro, High Point, and Winston-Salem.


Would you be interested in joining us?



Give us a quick 👍 or 👎 in the poll below. Your feedback will help decide whether we move forward.

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Big Thanks to UNCG's Master of Public Affairs Program

We’re grateful for our continued partnership with the UNC Greensboro MPA Program and extend a special thank you to Dr. Hunter Bacot for his leadership and collaboration.


We also want to recognize Raven Sizemore for her contributions as our graduate assistant this past academic year, and warmly welcome Livi Burke, who will join us beginning May 11.


In addition, we appreciate the work of MPA students Mykaila Brown, Antonio Carey, Ally Clayton, Rayven Hall, Edgar Rodriguez, and Tippu Sultan, who are helping lead the Triad Advocacy Readiness Survey. Their efforts will help us better define and understand advocacy across the Triad and strengthen how we support the nonprofit sector.



Partnerships with local colleges and universities are critical to building a more connected, informed, and effective community. If you or your institution are interested in partnering with One Sector One Voice Triad, please contact Brian Cockman at brian@onesectoronevoice.org.

Looking Ahead: Voter Registration & the 2026 Midterms


It’s never too early to start thinking about the next election. The 2026 midterm elections are on the horizon, and they will shape key decisions impacting communities across North Carolina.

Now is a great time to check your voter registration status, make a plan to vote, and begin thinking about how your organization can support civic participation. In North Carolina, eligible voters can register ahead of the deadline or take advantage of same-day registration during early voting.


Midterm elections often see lower turnout, but their impact is significant. Encouraging voter registration and participation is one of the most powerful ways we can strengthen our communities and ensure all voices are heard.


Stay tuned for more information on co-sponsored candidate forums in the coming weeks! 

Things to Keep Your Eye On

PSLF Rule Update


A U.S. Department of Education rule, effective July 1, 2026, could limit some nonprofits’ eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Organizations may be excluded if they are found to engage in “substantial illegal purposes,” a broad category that includes certain violations of federal and state laws. Nonprofits will need to certify compliance when applying, which may be unclear for some organizations. Two lawsuits are challenging the rule, and the Department of Education has asked the court to dismiss them. A decision is still pending.

NC Short Session Underway


The North Carolina General Assembly has convened its 2026 short session, where lawmakers will focus on the state budget, advancing previously passed bills, and limited new legislation tied to spending and taxes. Governor Stein has released his recommended budget. For nonprofits, this means a fast-moving session with major attention on budget decisions that could impact funding and services. Stay alert for policy changes and be ready to engage as priorities take shape.

990 Form Changes


The U.S. Department of the Treasury has announced upcoming changes to the annual Form 990 filed by tax-exempt nonprofits. The Internal Revenue Service is expected to propose updates aimed at increasing transparency, particularly around government funding and fiscal sponsorship. These changes could affect how nonprofits report key activities and funding sources. More details are expected soon, along with opportunities for public comment.

Proposed Federal Bill Targets Foreign Donations to Nonprofits


A new bill (H.R. 8166) introduced in the United States House of Representatives would revoke tax-exempt status for 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) nonprofits that accept donations from individuals in certain countries, including China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. While the bill raises concerns about administrative burden and donor tracking, it is unlikely to advance. Still, it signals ongoing federal attention to nonprofit funding sources.

For weekly policy updates, check out the NC Center for Nonprofit's policy updates here!

Upcoming Events

If you've ever thought, "I care about what's happening, but I'm not sure how this actually works," we made something for you. Civics & Advocacy Office Hours — How This Actually Works is a relaxed, in-person space to learn how civic systems function, ask real questions, and connect with neighbors who want to be more engaged. No jargon, no lectures, and no pressure to be an expert — just practical clarity and good conversation.


As always at Politisit, we're focused on making participation possible for real life — especially for parents and caregivers balancing a lot. Drop in, stay as long as you can, and leave a little more confident about your next step.


Our conversation starter this month: what actually falls under local funding — and does contacting your elected officials actually do anything? Whether you're still figuring out what county government even does or you've been paying attention for years, there's something here for you. Come find out, with a county commissioner in the room.


(This is a kid-friendly event, but if you’d rather fly solo and the cost of a babysitter is a barrier, reach out to Info@politisit.org and we’ll get you covered!)

May 15 - Nonprofits Essentials: Advocacy and Communication

Nonprofits play an active role in shaping public policy. Learn successful advocacy strategies used to advance an organization’s mission for the public good and how to address related legal, ethical, and tax issues. Register here. This class is online from 1-4 pm and will not be recorded. 


Members of the Consortium can attend for the Supporting Partner rate if they’re not partners with HandsOn NWNC on their own (they should choose GNC when prompted).

May 20 - Nonprofits Essentials: Collaboration

Is your nonprofit interested in doing true, deep collaborative work with other organizations? The kind that moves from talk to action, to measurable results? Then this session is for you! In this highly interactive, energetic, and--dare we say--FUN workshop,  you will get the opportunity to explore specific skills and tools that will help you create and sustain powerful, effective partnerships. Register here. This class is in person from 1-4 pm and will not be recorded. 


Members of the Consortium can attend for the Supporting Partner rate if they’re not partners with HandsOn NWNC on their own (they should choose GNC when prompted).

SAVE THE DATE

June 15 - Policy Update in the Triad with David Heinen, VP for Public Policy and Advocacy, NC Center for Nonprofits

October 28-29 - Civic Voices Advocacy Training with IOPL


We’re excited to share that One Sector One Voice Triad, in partnership with the NC Institute of Public Leadership, will bring Civic Voices to the Triad on Wednesday, October 28 and Thursday, October 29.


Civic Voices is a day-and-a-half advocacy training designed to equip nonprofit leaders with practical tools to engage policymakers, communicate their mission effectively, and navigate the public policy process. This Triad-focused training will bring together nonprofit professionals committed to strengthening civic engagement and advancing their work through advocacy.


The agenda and location are currently in development, with more details to be shared in the coming weeks.


If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or learning more about Civic Voices, please contact Brian Cockman at brian@onesectoronevoice.org.


Stay tuned in the coming weeks for more details on the location and agenda! 


For a full list of local events and trainings, please visit the Guilford Nonprofit

Consortium and HandsOn NWNC websites.


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