Celebrating American Democracy: Let’s Get #VoteReady!

By Angela Lee, Manager, Advocacy, Outreach & Engagement, Goodwill Industries International 

On Tuesday November 8, millions of Americans will head to the polls to cast their ballots, effectively electing all 435 House of Representatives members, 34 senators, 36 governors, and many more elected officials.

Your vote is your voice and your power. Some elections have been decided by only six votes. Your vote can shape issues such as access to health care, schools, public transportation, local policing, and more. From Congress all the way down to your local government, we need to elect leaders who will make sure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Don’t let anyone speak for you — make your voice heard loud and clear by casting your ballot. Below are some actions you can take in the days leading up to and on Election Day:

• Are you voting early? Mail in or drop off your ballot, or cast your vote at an early voting site to make sure your community is represented in the general election. Use #VoteEarly and #VoteReady to share with your friends on social media that you have voted. Find state specific information on early voting at org.
• Are you getting prepared to vote next week? Find your personal voting information, including what’s on your ballot and your polling place, by going to org and typing in your address.
• Are you helping others vote? Share information with them about the benefits of voting early like avoiding long lines and how they can find vital information about voting at org.

As a country we’ve seen how the decisions our elected officials impact our lives and our communities. Elected officials at all levels make critical decisions that affect nonprofits like Goodwill and the millions of individuals and families served. Voting is the investment we make every year for ourselves, our children, and our communities.

So vote for your communities and for your future. Don’t let anyone speak for you.