How Organizations Can Boost Voter Participation

by Jon Scaccia August 27, 2024

Voting is more than just a civic duty; it’s a critical component of public health. When people vote, they shape the policies that govern healthcare, education, housing, and more. Organizations have a unique opportunity to foster environments that actively encourage and facilitate voter participation.

Yesterday, we looked at the work of ASPPH and how voting is a central part of public health. Here a deeper dive into how your organization can make a difference.

Voter Registration Drives

One of the most effective ways to boost voter participation is by organizing voter registration drives. Partner with organizations like the Independent Sector and Nonprofit VOTE to conduct these campaigns, especially in communities served by nonprofits. These drives can help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.

Steps to Organize a Voter Registration Drive:

1. Identify Partner Organizations: Collaborate with groups experienced in voter registration.
2. Choose Locations: Focus on areas with lower voter registration rates.
3. Promote the Event: Use social media, email campaigns, and local media to spread the word.
4. Provide Resources: Ensure that volunteers have all the necessary materials and information.

Campus-Wide Initiatives

Universities are vibrant communities that can significantly impact voter turnout. Work with your university to coordinate efforts that enhance voter registration and turnout. Develop programs that educate students on the importance of voting, the voting process, and current political issues.

Ideas for Campus Initiatives:

• Educational Workshops: Host events that explain the voting process and discuss relevant issues.
• Student Ambassadors: Recruit students to champion voting among their peers.
• Accessible Voting Locations: Ensure that students have easy access to polling places on or near campus.

Voter-Friendly Designation

Achieving recognition as a Voter Friendly Campus through partnerships with NASPA and the Fair Elections Center highlights your organization’s commitment to promoting voter engagement. This designation not only boosts your organization’s profile but also encourages a culture of civic participation.

How to Become a Voter Friendly Campus:

1. Assessment: Evaluate current voting engagement efforts.
2. Planning: Develop a strategic plan to enhance voter participation.
3. Implementation: Execute the plan, focusing on voter education and engagement.
4. Evaluation: Measure the impact of your efforts and identify areas for improvement.

Time Off to Vote Policies

Providing employees with the time and flexibility to vote is crucial. Establish and promote organizational Time Off to Vote policies to ensure that all staff members can participate in elections without worrying about work commitments.

Creating Time Off to Vote Policies:

• Policy Development: Draft clear guidelines outlining the time off for voting.
• Communication: Inform employees about the policy well in advance of elections.
• Support: Encourage managers to be flexible and supportive of their teams.

Encourage Serving as Poll Workers

Local elections often struggle with having enough poll workers. Encouraging your employees to sign up as poll workers helps ensure elections run smoothly and demonstrates your organization’s commitment to civic engagement.

Promoting Poll Worker Participation:

1. Information Sessions: Educate employees on the importance of poll workers and how they can help.
2. Incentives: Offer incentives such as paid time off for those who volunteer.
3. Partnerships: Work with local election boards to streamline the poll worker registration process.

Conclusion

Organizations have the power to significantly impact voter participation. By implementing these strategies, you can help create a more engaged and informed electorate. Voting is a cornerstone of democracy and public health, and your organization’s efforts can make a lasting difference.

Join the Conversation

1. What strategies has your organization implemented to encourage voter participation?
2. Have you participated in or organized a voter registration drive? Share your experiences!

We invite you to share your thoughts and stories in the comments or on social media using the hashtag #VotingIsPublicHealth.

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