The Nonprofit’s Guide to the 2026 Primary: Voter Activation Strategies

How is your nonprofit showing up for the June 2nd Primary?

As California nonprofits, we are the most trusted messengers in our communities. With the June 2nd Primary approaching, our role is not just about “protecting” the vote, it’s about activating it. However, many nonprofits feel hesitant to engage due to confusing federal rhetoric, rampant misinformation, and confusion about legal boundaries.

For California nonprofits, the fundamentals have not changed: nonpartisan voter engagement is legal, protected, and essential. But this moment calls for clarity, confidence, and coordination. Whether you want to provide education, host a forum, or simply help your community register to vote, this webinar will provide the compliance-first strategies you need to lead with confidence.

This informational session will cover:

🔹 The 501(c)(3) Legal Playbook: A clear breakdown of what is legally permitted (and what is not) under IRS rules for nonpartisan engagement.

🔹 Navigating the “Top-Two” Primary: Understanding how California’s unique primary system works and how to explain it to your community.

🔹 Deadlines & Logistics: Key dates for the June 2nd election, including the May 4th vote-by-mail kickoff and “Same Day” registration rules.

🔹 Combatting Misinformation: Practical ways to use official Secretary of State resources and other tools to provide your community with facts, not noise.

🔹 The “Nonpartisan” Standard: How to advocate for your mission and issues without accidentally crossing into candidate endorsement.

🔹 Grass Roots Organizing: Examples of nonprofit-led GOTV efforts across California

Webinar speakers include:

Geoff Green, CEO, CalNonprofits

Luz Gallegos, Executive Director, TODEC

Sky Allen, Executive Director, IE United