The Strong Towns Podcast cover image

The Strong Towns Podcast

Why Strong Towns Won’t Cave to Election Year Pressures

Nov 15, 2024
Delve into the challenges faced by nonprofits during election years. Discover how political noise can distract from mission-driven goals, especially during a book tour. Learn about the impact of divisive rhetoric on community engagement and membership growth. This discussion showcases resilience in navigating political pressures while maintaining a nonpartisan approach. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how to stay true to core values amidst a turbulent political landscape.
28:29

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Election years disrupt membership growth in nonprofits, leading to decreased engagement as partisan activities overshadow broader missions.
  • Organizations must choose between quick financial gains from divisive rhetoric or long-term sustainability through fostering civil dialogue and community engagement.

Deep dives

Impact of Elections on Membership Growth

Elections significantly affect membership dynamics within nonprofit organizations, particularly during election years. Historical data suggests that membership growth typically experiences a boost of around 20% annually, but this trend shifts dramatically in election years. For example, the year prior showed substantial membership increases until a notable decline occurred in June, coinciding with political debates. This indicates that partisan activities can divert potential supporters' attention away from broader organizational missions, leading to reduced membership engagement during politically charged times.

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