Help Prevent the Next Federal Government Shutdown

February 5, 2019

The 35-day federal government shutdown caused widespread disruptions in the lives of millions of people. Fortunately, our nonprofits were there to address problems, maintain well-being, and help communities. However, we also understand that the effects of the shutdown will be with us for some time, and many people and organizations will not recover soon. 

The threat of another shutdown is very real. Unless federal elected officials can negotiate an agreement by February 15, then the disruptions and harm caused before will be compounded by yet another shutdown. 

Washington Nonprofits, in collaboration with organizations across the country, has a very clear message for the White House and Congress: Another government shutdown cannot be an option. The pain is too great; our communities’ well-being is at stake. 

7 Minute Advocacy Action
Please take seven minutes to help protect all Americans from the personal disruptions and costs that another government shutdown would inflict and help us all build a stronger nonprofit community. 

First, pick up pick your phone and call the President, our two Senators, and your Representative. Tell the person who answers how you and your organization were affected by the federal government shutdown. Then deliver the same message to each office: “The government shutdown reminded everyone that nonprofits are the foundations of our communities, working to build well-being every day. Don’t undermine our communities; shutdowns are completely unacceptable and should never be an option.”

Second, send an email to all of the above making the same point: “The government shutdown reminded everyone that nonprofits are the foundations of our communities, working to build well-being every day. Don’t undermine our communities; shutdowns are completely unacceptable and should never be an option.” 

Third, send a tweet (288 characters) that tells your federal policymakers how you feel about another government shutdown. Here’s a sample tweet:

[@Representative/Senator’s Twitter Handle] The #government shutdown reminded everyone that #nonprofits are the foundations of our communities. Don’t undermine our communities; shutdowns are completely unacceptable and should never be an option. #NonprofitShutdownStories @WANonprofits

If you tweet other messages, be sure to use the hashtag #NonprofitShutdownStories and include @WANonprofits so we can re-tweet. 

Contact Information

Share Your Story 
Help our advocacy by sharing your story with us. All you have to do is fill out this quick survey with a brief story about how the shutdown is impacting you. Our staff will reply with questions and ask permission before sharing. We need your stories about what is going on in Washington State so we can advocate for change. 

We will continue to share information about this important issue. Thank you for acting to ensure that policymakers understand the shutdown’s impact on our communities. Please let us know how your calls, emails, and tweets are received by offices by contacting us.

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