Get Involved
Democracy works best when citizens do more than just vote. There are many ways to participate — from volunteering at your local polling place to running for office yourself. Every level of involvement strengthens our democratic process.
First Things First: Register to Vote
The most fundamental act of civic participation is voting. If you are not already registered, or if you have moved or changed your name since you last registered, start here. Registration is free and takes only a few minutes.
Volunteer Opportunities
Elections depend on thousands of volunteers across the country. These roles are open to ordinary citizens, typically require only a few hours of training, and are among the most direct ways to support free and fair elections.
Poll Worker
Election Day (and early voting periods)
Poll workers are the backbone of every election. They set up polling places, check in voters, explain how to use voting equipment, and ensure the process runs smoothly. Most jurisdictions pay poll workers a stipend. Requirements vary by state but generally include being a registered voter, completing a training session, and being available for the full day. Many areas face chronic poll worker shortages — your help is genuinely needed.
Find poll worker opportunities at WorkElections.orgVoter Registrar
Year-round, especially before registration deadlines
Voter registrars (also called deputy registrars in some states) help eligible citizens register to vote. After completing a short certification process through your county or state election office, you can conduct voter registration drives at community events, schools, libraries, and other public locations. This is one of the most direct ways to increase civic participation.
Learn about voter registration drives at Vote.orgElection Judge / Inspector
Election Day
Election judges (called election inspectors or precinct officers in some states) supervise the polling place, resolve disputes, and ensure that election laws and procedures are followed. This role carries more authority and responsibility than a standard poll worker position. Requirements typically include nonpartisan conduct, a training course, and in some states, appointment by a political party or election board.
Contact your county election officePoll Watcher / Observer
Election Day and ballot counting
Poll watchers are authorized representatives who observe election proceedings on behalf of a candidate, political party, or civic organization. They monitor the voting process and ballot counting to ensure transparency and integrity. Rules for poll watchers are set by state law and vary significantly. Poll watchers may not interfere with voting, assist voters, or handle ballots.
Check your state's observer rulesRun for Local Office
There are over 500,000 elected positions in the United States, and many local races go uncontested. Running for local office does not require wealth, political connections, or years of experience — it requires a willingness to serve your community. Here is how to get started.
Research the Office
Start by identifying which offices are available in your jurisdiction. School boards, city councils, county commissions, water districts, and other special districts all have elected positions. Learn about the responsibilities, time commitment, compensation (if any), and term length. Attend public meetings to see the work firsthand.
Check Eligibility Requirements
Requirements vary by office and jurisdiction but typically include being a registered voter in the district, meeting a minimum age requirement, and residing in the area for a specified period. Some offices may have additional requirements. Contact your local election office for specific filing requirements.
File to Run
Filing typically involves submitting paperwork to your local election office, which may include a declaration of candidacy, a filing fee (often modest for local races — some jurisdictions waive fees for candidates who gather petition signatures instead), and a financial disclosure form. Pay close attention to filing deadlines, as they are strictly enforced.
Campaign
Local campaigns can be run with modest resources. Knock on doors, attend community events, speak at local organizations, and use social media to reach voters. Many local races are won by candidates who simply show up and engage with their neighbors. Focus on the issues that matter to your community and be transparent about your positions.
Serve Your Community
If elected, you will have a direct impact on the decisions that shape your community. Come prepared to meetings, listen to constituents, collaborate with fellow board members, and make decisions based on the best available information. Public service at the local level is one of the most meaningful ways to contribute to democracy.
Not sure what offices are available?
Check RunForOffice.org to find upcoming elections and open seats in your area, or contact your local county clerk or election office for information about positions on the next ballot.
Community Organizing
You do not need to hold office or work at a polling place to make a difference. Organizing in your community — whether at your school, workplace, neighborhood, or place of worship — helps ensure that more people have the information and access they need to participate.
Organize a Voter Registration Drive
Partner with nonpartisan organizations like the League of Women Voters or Vote.org to host voter registration events in your community. Libraries, community centers, college campuses, and places of worship are all effective locations. Check your state's rules about who can conduct voter registration.
League of Women VotersHost a Candidate Forum
Invite candidates for local office to present their platforms and answer questions from the community. Nonpartisan candidate forums help voters hear directly from candidates and ask about issues that matter locally. The League of Women Voters provides guides for organizing fair, nonpartisan forums.
Forum organizing guideSupport Civic Education
Advocate for robust civic education in your local schools. Volunteer to talk to students about how government works, help with student voter registration drives (for eligible students), or support organizations that provide civic education resources to young people.
Center for Civic EducationJoin a Nonpartisan Civic Organization
Many organizations work year-round to strengthen democracy through voter education, election observation, and civic engagement. Joining one amplifies your impact and connects you with like-minded citizens in your community.
Vote.orgReady to Take the Next Step?
Whether you volunteer for one day or run for office, every act of civic participation strengthens our democracy. Start by learning how the system works, then find the role that fits you best.