Get Out The Vote (GOTV)
The League is involved with GOTV activities prior to elections, such as distributing informational flyers to community centers or local businesses. The League also produces some flyers that you can download and distribute on your own. (For example, see the Volunteer Resources section of this page.)
There's also a lot we can do as individuals, with friends or family or within groups to raise awareness of upcoming elections and the importance of voting. Below are some ideas from the Voter Education team.
There's also a lot we can do as individuals, with friends or family or within groups to raise awareness of upcoming elections and the importance of voting. Below are some ideas from the Voter Education team.
One-on-One Voter Outreach
- Make your voting plan first. Do you know where and when you’re voting?
- Talk to your friends. Do they know when the Primary election is? Do they know who’s running? Emphasize the importance of local-level elections.
- Share information on elections on Social Media. Every small bit of awareness can help normalize voting. Tag your friends, start a discussion.
Have a Ballot Party!
- Invite friends - Have snacks and/or drinks. Print sample ballots or some of the League's Voter Services Resources such as Are You Ready To Vote?
- Discuss the upcoming election. No need to represent an organization. Make it your own Ballot Party. It’s your friends. Discuss issues and candidates in a way that helps people make their own choices about voting. (Remember that League-sponsored events are always non-partisan.)
Faith Communities, Social Groups, Book Clubs, Gym Class
- All of these organizations might be willing to advocate for nonpartisan voter turnout, to make announcements about turning out to vote or to accept posted flyers.
- These groups have a wide reach and may listen if you are a member. You can ask the group leader if it’s ok to send out basic election and voter information to the mailing list, or make an announcement at the next group meeting.
Cork Boards & Business Windows
- Post "VOTE" flyers and other election information on cork boards in coffee shops, book stores and restaurants.
- The windows of business are another possibility. Aim for business that already have community flyers in their window.
- Politely ask if it’s ok to post a flyer on cork board or in a window. Emphasize nonpartisan nature of flyer. If the manager declines, ask if there’s an employee break room where flyer could be posted.
Neighborhood Canvas
- Door-to-door canvassing is more fun and easier with two. Go with a friend. You can either knock on doors and talk, or just hang doorhangers. If you knock on doors, be polite and nonpartisan. You can remind people about voting deadlines or answer questions about registering/voting.
