Skip to content
New to Catchafire? Register. Or sign in here.
Request a demo
Search icon
Request a demo
All posts

Get ready to vote: your civic engagement guide

Picture of Gohar Chichian   Gohar Chichian  ·  5 minute read
 
Smiling woman with an 'I voted' badge over her right eye
 
In a democracy, every voice matters, and every vote counts. During the 2018, 2020, and 2022 elections, the United States experienced three of the highest levels of voter turnout. Yet, voter turnout differs based on elements like age, gender, income, ethnicity, and race, and there are many who feel their involvement doesn’t make a difference. As we approach November, we challenge that notion, and advocate for the many forms of civic engagement that ensure individuals’ voices are heard and community needs are met.

Take action by voting, volunteering, and engaging in community initiatives. 

Voting and volunteering are not about partisanship; they are about elevating communities and fostering unity, freedom, and service. When you exercise your power as a voter, you help elect leaders who are responsive to and reflective of your community's needs. When you volunteer, you advocate for your community and stay involved in local affairs. Together, we can create a more engaged, informed, and active society.

Review our guide to learn more about how to be civically engaged this summer, how to register to vote, and ways to help others get to the polls.
 

Types of civic engagement: how to get involved this summer

Two people at voting booths

We’re stronger when we come together for our communities. Civic engagement encompasses a broad range of activities designed to strengthen individuals, nonprofits, and the community at large. Here are some examples of civic engagement to consider for your election plan. 

Voting

The most fundamental form of civic engagement is voting. By casting your ballot in the upcoming election, you have a direct impact on who represents you and makes decisions on your behalf. Ensuring you are registered to vote and encouraging others to do the same is a vital step in promoting democracy.
 

Working at the polls

Poll workers play a crucial role in the electoral process. You can help ensure elections run smoothly, assist voters, and uphold the integrity of the voting process. Volunteering as a poll worker is an excellent way to support your community and ensure that every vote counts.

Community service

Engaging in community service projects helps address local needs and fosters a sense of unity and cooperation. Whether it's organizing a neighborhood cleanup, mentoring youth, or assisting at a food bank, community service strengthens the fabric of society. You can lend your time and talent to community service year-round, making an impact beyond November’s election.
 

Skills-based volunteering

Skills-based volunteering leverages your professional skills to support nonprofit organizations dedicated to protecting voter rights and championing civic advocacy. Support initiatives like voter registration drives, census counts, and civic education workshops. By using your expertise, you can make a significant impact on civic engagement organizations that serve the community.
 

Your civic engagement guide on Catchafire

Election season can be filled with a lot of static noise, and you may feel overwhelmed by the media cycle and deciding where you can contribute your time and efforts. At Catchafire, we’ve got you covered with a guide. Here are three ways to get involved inside and outside of the voting booth.

 

“At Catchafire, we believe in the power of building bridges between community members and giving back to strengthen our democracy. By creating a culture of participation and community service, we encourage individuals to make a tangible impact, strengthen community bonds, and ensure that everyone's voice is heard. Civic engagement is about building a more inclusive, responsive, and resilient society where everyone has the chance to contribute to the common good.”

Matt Miszewski
CEO, Catchafire

 

1. Sign up to be a poll worker

Poll worker assisting an older gentlemen to vote

Our democracy depends on everyday people to help elections run smoothly and make sure every vote is counted. We’re partnering with Power the Polls to help recruit a new generation of poll workers.

As a poll worker, you help elections in your community run smoothly by keeping early voting locations open, ensuring technology works, and helping voters who may need additional support at the polls—and you get paid to do so. Election officials are especially in need of tech-savvy and bilingual poll workers to help make voting more accessible for everyone. If you have that skill set, sign up today! 

When you sign up, Power the Polls will direct you to the official poll worker application for your local jurisdiction. Once you submit your application, you’ll hear from your local election administrator about opportunities in your community and receive training so you’re well prepared.

Every voter deserves to see themselves reflected in our democracy. Sign up here.

2. Create your voting plan

Two friends looking at the computer

Ensure you are registered to vote and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Voter registration is a simple yet powerful step in exercising your civic duty. Many states offer online voter registration, making the process quick and easy. Check your registration status regularly and update your information if you’ve moved or changed your name.

We’re partnering with Rock The Vote to promote the vote to our community. We’re here to help you and your loved ones check your voter registration status and sign up to vote. You can also write letters to voters in key states to help increase election  turnout.

Prepare for November by finding your polling location and researching your ballot ahead of time. Make your voice heard by registering to vote today. 

3. Help your local nonprofit

Young man holding a clipboard for volunteering

Nonprofit organizations dedicated to protecting voters’ rights and civic engagement rely on volunteers to carry out their missions. By volunteering, you can support their work and help increase civic participation in your community.

Nonprofits on Catchafire are working on civic engagement projects like:

  • Voter registration drives
  • Census counts
  • Civic education workshops
  • Media literacy and training
  • Mobilizing youth
  • Grassroots campaigns
  • Advocacy work

Sign up to volunteer on Catchafire today.

 

"Over the last 12 years, we've seen and heard firsthand from our nonprofits and volunteers about the profound impact they've made together. Their collective efforts have advanced missions and supported communities, providing critical access to voting rights, healthcare, education, and so much more. This unwavering dedication and collaboration have not only driven meaningful change but also inspired countless others to join in and contribute to support the causes they care about."

Matt Miszewski
CEO, Catchafire

 

Why is civic engagement important?

Get ready to vote_ your civic engagement guide - 5

Acts of civic engagement provide multiple benefits, at both the individual and collective level.

Strengthens democracy

Active participation in civic activities ensures that democracy remains robust and representative. When citizens are engaged, they hold elected officials accountable and contribute to policy decisions that reflect the community's needs.

Fosters stronger communities

Civic engagement builds unity and belonging among community members as they work together towards common goals. It brings people together to address societal challenges, celebrate successes, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

Leads to personal growth

Engaging in civic activities can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. It provides opportunities to learn new skills, gain valuable experiences, and develop a deeper understanding of societal issues.

As you vote and volunteer for the causes you care about, you can experience the many benefits of civic engagement. Feel good while doing good and giving back to your community.

This is democracy in action. Will you join us?

Civic engagement is more than just a duty; it is an opportunity to shape the future of our communities and our country. By voting, volunteering, and participating in civic engagement activities, you contribute to a more inclusive, responsive, and vibrant democracy. Whether you sign up to be a poll worker, register to vote, or volunteer for civic engagement organizations, your actions matter.
 
Unity, freedom, and community service are the pillars of a healthy democracy. Together, we can promote the vote and ensure that every voice is heard. Use this guide as a starting point to explore various ways to get involved and inspire others to do the same. Get involved, stay engaged, and exercise your power as a citizen. 
 
 
 

Subscribe to our newsletter

The pixel