headshot of Renell Weathers in a black blazer

Renell Weathers
Advocacy and Public Policy Consultant 


Renell works with Nonprofit Network clients and members to teach nonprofits how they can influence decisions
made by lawmakers and create customized public policy plans.

 

 

Renell has over 15 years of experience in public policy and with helping organizations navigate the legislative and political landscape. As the first Community Engagement Director for the Michigan League for Public Policy, she worked with organizations throughout the state to increase their knowledge of state and local processes to advance policy goals. Renell is motivated by the belief that each of us has a role to play for the betterment of our community.

Renell is a former senior district representative for the 7th Congressional District where she collaborated with a diverse array of community leaders, agencies, grassroots organizations and local units of government. She also served as Constituent Relations Director and District Representative for the Office of Michigan Senate Minority Leader, has managed a nonprofit that provided programs for youth and families, and owned and operated a child care program.

Renell was awarded the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award from Jackson College for recognition of her community service. She currently serves on three boards in Jackson County, the Gainey School of Business Advisory Council, the Lily Missions Center, and is board chair at the Jackson Community Foundation.

Renell is a graduate of the Leadership Institute for State-based Advocates through the Annie E. Casey Foundation and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Spring Arbor University. Renell’s career has been devoted to improving the results for communities by equipping community organizations with the tools to activate their power.  


Services that Renell can help you and/or your organization with:
 
  • Identify your advocacy strategy
  • Create an advocacy plan customized for your organization and/or the issues that impact the people you serve
  • Provide coaching around speaking with your legislators, including crafting your message and ask
  • Prepare you for legislative hearings with testimony and talking points
  • Develop resource materials and issue guidance
  • Understand what systems you can influence on behalf of your community



Renell and her husband, Frank have lived and flourished in Jackson County for 20 years. Their two daughters graduated from Jackson High School and are proud graduates of Michigan Universities. The new loves of her life are her two grandsons, Xavier and Zion. They are the source of her passion to help communities become places where all thrive.

If you're interested in assistance from Renell please email us with your inquiry HERE