The difference between the “Union” and the “Foundation”—two distinct organizations:

The ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) of Arkansas is an affiliate of the national ACLU; it is the organization that you join when you become a member. The ACLU of Arkansas, a 501(c) 4 under the tax code, is a private, non-profit, non-partisan, membership organization that tries to influence legislation by lobbying lawmakers and the public. Anyone (not just lawyers!) can join, and everyone is welcome!

The ACLUF (Arkansas Civil Liberties Union Foundation) is a 501(c) 3 under the IRS tax code: a private, non-profit, charitable organization. Unlike the ACLU, however, it does not lobby, and its activities include litigation (see our docket) and education. Donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible. Making a donation to the Arkansas Civil Liberties Union Foundation does not make you a member of the ACLU of Arkansas.