Date of Award

5-2025

Degree Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Department

Political Science and Public Administration

Abstract

This research explores the impact of coalitions on communities and their influence on local and state policies in rural agricultural communities in Michigan. Nonprofit organizations often utilize coalitions to strengthen their outreach efforts and impact, and in this paper, the author focuses on Farm-to-Power (FTP), a new nonprofit organization in Michigan. FTP advocates for landowners’ rights regarding renewable energy, specifically wind and solar, on a utility scale. This paper explores the best practices concerning effective coalition-building that have the capability to impact policy changes that benefit farming communities through improved economic stability. Access to renewable energy leases for Michigan farmers contributes to economic stability for farmers and their communities through direct payments to individual landowners, tax revenue for townships and counties, improved roads and land access, and money for local schools. Nonprofit organizations and coalitions can aid communities through advocacy work, combatting misinformation, educating stakeholders, and empowering individuals and organizations. FTP empowers individuals and organizations through outreach and uses a storytelling-journalism style to engage people and their communities. By sharing the direct experiences of farmers, some of the most trusted voices in America, FTP challenges misconceptions and misinformation about renewable energy on agricultural land and engages people, communities, and organizations to advocate for their own rights and challenge poor policies that negatively impact people and communities.

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