According to a 2024 report by the American Psychological Association, 69% of American adults said the election that year caused them significant stress. Moreover, 77% reported that they worried about the future of the country. Thanks to social media and cable news, it is easy to get instant information about political events taking place across the country, though this constant flow of news can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for some people.

The good news is that there are positive ways to deal with these emotions. Researchers from the American Psychological Association shared that engaging in civic work and creating social bonds in one’s community can help improve a person’s well-being.​​

Voting is perhaps the most well-known way to participate in the democratic process, and tens of millions of Americans cast ballots every election season. But voting is not the only activity available. For those who are interested in doing more, below are four meaningful ways to volunteer in civic and community engagement efforts.

Volunteer as a poll worker

During elections, local election offices often need volunteers to help out at polling places. Although the specific tasks involved can vary by location, most volunteers help greet voters, check voter registrations, and help voters with using the voting equipment available. In general, they are responsible for ensuring that citizens can participate in the democratic process as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

To become a poll worker, you should contact your local election office. The United States Election Assistance Commission has a handy lookup tool for this purpose.

Volunteer with a candidate’s campaign or political party

If there is a candidate or political party you support, consider volunteering with a campaign or political organization. Much of the work involves voter outreach and encouraging participation. In a country where less than half of eligible voters regularly show up to the polls, this type of work can play an important role in increasing public participation in elections and advancing public policy discussions.

Campaigns and political parties often need volunteers for tasks such as canvassing, registering voters, and sending reminders via phone calls and texts. Some volunteers also have  opportunities to assist with campaign events.

Host your own voter registration drive

In order to vote, residents must have an active registration. But the process of registering to vote can be challenging for some people. Setting up a voter registration drive is one way to help them take that first step toward casting their ballot. 

These drives can be hosted in various places, including community centers and schools. They also can be hosted virtually.

The nonprofit VOTE has an in-depth guide for conducting voter registration drives. Please be aware that laws vary by state. It is important to check the laws in your area.

Volunteer at WeVote

WeVote is a great organization for those who may not have the time and resources for in-person volunteering. Our main mission is to run a digital platform that educates voters and transforms voting into a social activity with the hopes of increasing voter turnouts in various elections. This ambitious project is managed by over 200 passionate volunteers from around the country who work remotely and connect over emails, video calls, and Slack channels.

We are always looking for new talent to join our team. Between software engineering, graphic and video design, donor relations, grant writing, and social media marketing, most people can find a position at WeVote that fits with their unique set of skills. Visit this link to see volunteer roles that are currently available.