OBJECTIVE: Change the Federal Tax Code to stop stipends to foster families from being treated as taxable income.
STRATEGY: Recruited a U.S House and U.S. Senate “champion” to draft legislation. (Two members of the Kentucky delegation, Senator Jim Bunning and Congressman Ron Lewis, served as the bill authors in their respective chambers).
Developed research to show the cost of such a tax code change before receiving a “score” from Congress.
Researched any opposition, created a win-win for nonprofit and for-profit organizations, and held together a coalition.
Developed a coalition to run a grassroots campaign.
Looked for opportunities to move the legislation or a “vehicle.”
RESULTS: A change in the United States Tax Code allowing all foster care stipends to be tax-free.
Participation in the Rose Garden Ceremony where the legislation was signed into law by the President of the United States of America.