We want you to exercise your voice by voting for important initiatives and candidates willing to make change. And although next Tuesday is not the day to decide on your favorite presidential candidate, it is just as important for you and your community! However, before heading to the polls next Tuesday, it is equally important to remember to register to vote and/or ensure that the people around you are registered to vote.
- Contact the board of registrar’s in the county where the drive will take place. This office can provide you with essential information and materials like voter registration forms. Ask how to store and drop-off the completed voter registration forms.
- Get the details before you bring treats. Some states prohibit any benefit or “reward” (such as balloons, candy, school credits, etc.) from being provided in exchange for registering to vote or voting. So do your research.
- Get institutions involved. Recruit students, church members or municipal workers, or go door to door.
- Be prepared! Make sure you have all the necessary supplies for the voter registration drive. Be sure to bring pens, clipboards, forms and volunteers.
- Be creative with your table! Decorate it with bunting, balloons, and/or signs encouraging people to “Register to Vote Here.”
- Remember that your voter-registration drive must be nonpartisan. This means you cannot endorse a party or candidate while registering voters. In fact, the Federal Election Commission requires that a sign be posted or a written notice be available to registrants that states “Our voter registration services are available without regard to voters’ political preference.”
- Don’t be shy! Have some volunteers standing with clipboards and registration forms in-hand, ready to ask passers-by if they are registered to vote.
- In many states you can register online. You may want to have this information available for people who are in a rush and may not have time to fill out the registration forms.
- The voter registration deadline varies per state. Contact your local board of registrar’s office for the details.
- Have fun! You are helping citizens fulfill a civic responsibility!