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Volunteer to Register Voters, Work at Polling Places, or Become an Election Judge!
Democracy In Action
“Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve…. You don’t have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Resources
NASS - National Association of Secretaries of State - Become a Poll Worker
Rock The Vote - Help register and engage young voters
League of Women Voters - Fight voter suppression
Election Assistance Commission - State-by-State Election Worker Laws & Statutes
how to volunteer for elections
Volunteering for elections is a crucial way to be involved in democracy and help ensure that the electoral process runs smoothly. Whether you work at a polling place, assist a campaign, or help with voter registration, your efforts can make a significant difference in your community!
1. Research Local Election Offices
Start by checking your local or state election office website. Most state election offices have sections dedicated to volunteering and ways to get involved.
2. Identify Opportunities
Poll Workers: Many jurisdictions need poll workers to help manage polling places on Election Day. You typically need to be at least 18 years old, and some states allow high school students to volunteer with parental consent.
Election Day Volunteers: These can include roles like greeters, ballot counters, or assisting voters, especially those who may need help.
Voter Registration Drives: Many organizations host events to help register voters. You can join one of these efforts to help register individuals in your community.
Campaign Volunteer: If you have a particular candidate or political party you support, consider volunteering for their campaign. Campaigns often need help with canvassing, phone banking, organizing events, and fundraising.
Election Advocacy Organizations: Non-profits focused on voter education and advocacy often need volunteers, especially during election season.
3. Reach Out
Contact your local election office directly or visit their website to fill out a volunteer application or express your interest. You might also find links to local party committees or advocacy groups that need volunteers.
4. Attend Training Sessions
If you’re volunteering for a specific role, such as a poll worker or campaign staff, you may be required to attend a training session. This training will provide you with important information about your responsibilities and the voting process.
5. Commit to Your Role
Once you’ve decided on your volunteer job, be sure to follow through with your commitment. Showing up for your assigned shifts, being punctual, and performing your duties as instructed are essential to the smooth functioning of the election process.
6. Spread the Word
Encourage friends and family to volunteer as well. The more people involved, the more effective the efforts will be in ensuring a smooth election process and increasing voter turnout.
7. Stay Informed
Keep up to date with local election news and any changes in regulations or procedures that may arise leading up to the election. Staying informed will help you be a more effective volunteer.
8. Engage After the Election
After Election Day, consider participating in efforts to support voter education and engagement in the community. This can include attending town hall meetings, writing to your elected officials, or advocating for issues you care about.