MANP Connects: Advocacy is Mission Work
Zoom
Event Details
Advocacy isn't separate from your mission—it's one of the most powerful ways to advance it. Yet many nonprofits hesitate to engage because advocacy can seem intimidating, unfamiliar, and just out of reach. Our panelists will help demystify advocacy and show how meaningful change can begin with small, intentional actions, strong relationships, and a willingness to use your voice.
Join us to hear real stories and practical lessons about building advocacy into organizational culture, strengthening partnerships, engaging boards, and finding confidence in your organization’s voice.
New this year: We’re carving out time just for your questions! Come ready with one in mind, or jot them down as the conversation unfolds, and get a chance to ask them at the end of the session!
Continue the Learning! Once you’ve heard from inspiring nonprofit advocates at MANP Connects, join us on September 23rd for Nonprofit Advocacy 101: Why, What + How and get the practical information you’ll need to know in order to advocate for your mission.
Event Sponsor
Cost + Registration
- $0-$15 for MANP Members + Nonmembers
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MANP Connects is remaining free in 2026! Optional donation revenue from our events supports the work we do on behalf of all nonprofits in Maine, and we are grateful for any financial support from those who are able to provide it.
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- Register to receive access to the live event and to receive the recording + other resources in follow up.
- Registrants will receive a confirmation email as well as a reminder email that will be sent one day prior to the event.
- This MANP-hosted webinar will be hosted in Zoom Meeting and we ask participants turn off their cameras and mute themselves when joining.
- Watch previous MANP Connects on our Youtube Channel!
About the Panelists
Heide Lester supports the EqualityMaine team across fundraising, operations, communications, and policy. Prior to their tenure at EqualityMaine, they spent time in the tech sector working with a variety of nonprofits, focusing particularly on high-touch fundraising. Heide previously held fundraising positions at Maine Public, Tri-County Mental Health Services, and Bates College. They hold a B.A. in History and in German Studies from Wellesley College, studied at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Germany, and received a Certificate in Fundraising from the University of Southern Maine.
Belinda Ray oversees Greater Portland Council of Governments' (GPCOG) fundraising efforts and supervises GPCOG's cross-agency teams, including Data & Mapping, Community Engagement, and Grants & Contracts. She staffs GPCOG's nonprofit arm, the Center for Regional Prosperity and takes on special projects for the agency as they arise. Belinda has a diverse background spanning business management, writing, education, and public service which includes co-founding the East Bayside Neighborhood Organization and serving two terms on Portland's City Council. She has a bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from the University of Maine and is a graduate of Leadership Maine (Flagstaff Class) and the Nonprofit Leadership Institute of the Maine Association of Nonprofits.
Valerie Young (she/her) is Chief of Staff and Government Liaison at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, where she helps connect science, policy, and people. Her work includes public affairs, government relations, and building partnerships that strengthen Maine's research and innovation community. Along the way, she's had the opportunity to serve in the Peace Corps, intern on Capitol Hill, work in nonprofit leadership, and serve as an elected municipal official, experiences that shaped her belief that advocacy is ultimately about relationships, trust, and helping people understand why your work matters. She enjoys helping nonprofits find their voice and turn passion into effective advocacy.