Working with an advocacy coalition can significantly amplify your impact. While it requires coordination and commitment, the rewards are well worth the effort.

As Renee Kuhlman, senior director of outreach and support at the National Trust for Historic Preservation said, "Whether they are permanent or whether they're temporary advocacy. Coalitions are have one thing in common, and that's that they are action oriented."

Here’s a look at the top five benefits of joining an advocacy coalition, and things to think about before you join forces.

Top Five Benefits of Advocacy Coalitions

1. Shared Resources: When organizations come together, they bring their financial, human, and material resources to the table. This pooling of assets allows coalitions to launch more ambitious campaigns, reach wider audiences, and operate more efficiently than any single group could on their own.

2. Enhanced Credibility: A coalition sends a strong message that a policy issue matters to many. The collective voice of multiple organizations lends legitimacy and weight to your advocacy efforts, making policymakers more likely to take notice and respond.

3. Broader Support Base: Coalitions demonstrate a wide base of support, which can be persuasive to decision-makers and the public alike. With more organizations promoting the same message, your campaign can reach new audiences and gain traction across different communities and sectors.

4. Learning & Networking: Working alongside other organizations exposes you to new ideas, strategies, and tools. It’s a chance to learn from others’ experiences, build lasting relationships, and strengthen your own organization’s capacity through collaboration.

5. Cross-Disciplinary Strength: Effective coalitions often include partners from diverse fields—beyond the usual suspects. By involving professionals like architects, developers, planners, and even unexpected allies, you create a more interdisciplinary and resilient network that can tackle complex issues from multiple angles.

Although there are many reasons to join an advocacy coalition, a few things should be considered:

1. Partner Reputation: Research potential members of the coalition to be sure they align with your mission and values.

2. Time Commitment: Be realistic about your organization’s capacity to participate meaningfully without overextending your team or resources.

3. What Each Partner Brings to the Table: Every member should contribute something valuable, whether it’s expertise, connections, funding, or outreach capabilities.

4. Clear Agreements: Draft a shared document outlining goals, roles, and timelines.

5. Financial Clarity: Establish a formal agreement that outlines how much each member contributes and how funds will be managed and spent.