Engage in Democracy: Make Your Voice Heard.

   📣   Register to Vote! 

• Voting is one of the most important ways to participate in our democracy. Find more information via the Rutgers Eagleton Institute of Politics Center for Youth Political Participation resource, RU Voting 

• Find New Jersey voter registration applications and instructions from the NJ Division of Elections here and initiatives to increase youth vote here.  

• For information on voting in other states, check out Vote.org.

   📣   Learn Who Your Local and State Representatives Are 

• USA.gov: USA.gov is an official government website where you can quickly find and contact your elected officials, among other great resources. 

   📣   Learn More About Upcoming Elections

• The best way to know when elections are coming up is to check with your city, county, and/or state's Board of Elections.

• Ballot Ready: Ballot Ready is a nonpartisan guide to local, state, and national elections, including candidate comparisons and ballot measures. Simply type in your address, then you will be able to research upcoming elections, view ballots, register to vote, find your polling place, and see who represents you!

   📣  Call One Local or State Representative About an Issue That Matters to You 

• Visit USA.gov at this link to input your address and learn who represents you at each level of government. This page will also provide contact information to help you get in touch.

  • TIP: If you would rather leave a voicemail, you can call your representative after hours. 

• You can also submit a comment to your representative by finding their website! Most representatives will have an option to contact them directly on their page. 

• Check out this video by Rutgers Eagleton Professor Ginger Gold Schnitzer for inspiration! 

📣 Sign One Petition on a Local or State Issue

• Signing a petition can help influence decision-makers at the local, state, and national levels. Browse and support causes you care about at Change.org. Anyone can start a petition about a cause they care about. 

📣 Follow and Share Policy Messages on Social Media

• Re-post at least one inspiring social media post by a local or state representative! This will help amplify their message and can engage your community too by using your platform as a vessel for change.  
• Follow advocacy and nonprofit organizations that are meaningful to you on social media. To amplify their message, take a look at the hashtags that they are using and use those in your own posts! 

  📣   Donate to a Local Organization That Supports People Across Your Home State (If Available to You)

• Nonprofits, especially today, are in need of donations and any amount can help. To find an organization to donate to that is aligned with your interests politically, you can research nonprofits through platforms like GuideStar or Charity Navigator.

  • Tip: Donations come in many forms! Donate gently used clothes and household items in good condition; buy a few extra toiletries to share; grab a toy or stuffed animal to give away.

  • Look out for Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and independent thrift stores, food pantries, and women's shelters near you.

• For political giving, explore political action committees (PACs) and advocacy groups that align with your values and causes.

  📣    Invest in Your Local Community, Do Something Small

• Investing in your community can be as simple as paying for someone’s coffee or checking in with a neighbor for a friendly chat. 

📣   View the Newest Videos on the RDL's Digital Democracy Wall 

📣   Engage on Social Media: Follow Eagleton Institute of Politics and Our Centers on Social Media

• Eagleton Institute of Politics:  
  • On Instagram @ru_eagletoninstitute 
  • On X @Eagleton_RU 
  • LinkedIn: Eagleton Linkedin  
  • Newsletter: Eagleton Newsletter  

• Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP) 

  • On Instagram @womenandpolitics 

  • On BlueSky @cawp-ru.bsky.social 

  • On LinkedIn: CAWP Linkedin 

  • Newsletter: CAWP Newsletter 

• Center on the American Governor (ECAG)
  • On X @ECAG_RU
  • On LinkedIn-Eagleton Center on the American Governor
• Center on Public Interest Polling (ECPIP)
  • On X @Eagletonpoll
• Center for Youth Political Participation (CYPP)
  • On Instagram @rutgerscypp
  • On X @RutgersCYPP
• Eagleton Science and Politics Program
  • On X @EagletonScience
  • On LinkedIn-Eagleton Science and Politics Program
• Rutgers Democracy Lab
  • On Instagram @rudemocracylab

📣  Sign Up for Your Local and State Representatives' Newsletters

• Signing up for your representative's newsletter is a great way to stay informed about issues and upcoming events. Just visit their official website and look for the newsletter subscription section to get started.

📣   Check out the RDL's Media Literacy Page for Information on Fact-Checking and Unbiased News Sources

   📣   Email Your Local or State Representatives and Make Your Voice Heard

• Write to your representatives with your concerns and perspectives.

  • Most representatives have an option to contact them directly on their websites.

  • Remember you can visit USA.gov to identify contact information, including official websites, for your representatives, or use Ballot Ready’s “Meet Your Representatives” tool.

  • Tip: When writing an email, use this guide from the League of Women Voters to help you out.

   📣   Attend a Town Hall

• Town halls are open meetings that are hosted by your representative with the goal of engaging the community, particularly to better understand their thoughts on policy decisions, community issues, ask questions, and more. Attending a town hall is a great way to engage with democracy by voicing your concerns and/or your support!
  • The best way to find a town hall near you is to stay in touch with your representative via social media, their website, and/or a newsletter.
  • For tips on attending town hall meetings, watch this video by Rutgers professor Kelly Dittmar.

   📣   Attend a City Council Meeting or Hearing

• Attending an open city council meeting or public hearing is a great way to engage locally. To find more information, simply Google your city and “city council” to find more information. More often than not, this information will be on a website. If the information is not clear, you can call your city and ask for that information.

   📣   Attend a Public Action or Advocacy Event

• Rallies, demonstrations, and educational events bring visibility to key issues. Before you head out, know your rights.
  • See the Rutgers University Free Expression Guidelines.
  • The ACLU Protesters’ Rights Guide: The ACLU offers a guide on your rights as a protester. Always review this before you engage in a public demonstration.

   📣   Create Your Own Informative Post

• Share with your community about something that matters to you. Use your platform as a vessel for change.
  • Spot and Stop Misinformation: Make sure that you are not spreading misinformation and that you are using reliable sources! As misinformation is becoming more and more common, it is imperative that all citizens are educated on news literacy (the ability to determine the credibility of news and other information). Check out the RDL’s Media Literacy page. You can learn more about news literacy via the News Literacy Project and check the facts via FactCheck.org.

   📣   Talk to Those in Your Community About Local and State Issues That Impact Them

• Discussing important issues with your community—whether with friends, family, or colleagues—can lead to greater awareness and collective problem-solving. Effective civic engagement starts with listening, sharing reliable information, and being open to diverse viewpoints. Dialogue Across Difference offers resources and workshops to help navigate conversations on complex and polarizing topics with respect and understanding. 

  • Start by making sure you are sharing reliable information and open to other perspectives. By advocating and sharing information in your circles, you can create a sense of collective action and motivation.

  • For information on state policy topics and the interplay between federal decision-making and state policy, the National Conference of State Legislatures hosts town halls and drafts regular reports.

   📣   Start a Petition!

• Petitions can help influence decision-makers at local, state, and national levels. Get inspired and support causes you care about at Change.org.

   📣   Sign Up for One Volunteer Shift (1-1.5 hours) in Your Community or at a Statewide Organization

• Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and build meaningful connections.
• Here at Rutgers, there are many ways to support the campus community. Visit this page for an updated list of Rutgers-wide opportunities from the RU Office of Student Volunteer Engagement.
• Jersey Cares provides information on volunteer opportunities in New Jersey based on community needs. This is a great way to quickly get connected with an organization that suits you.

   📣   Support Your Community

• Supporting those in your community who need it most is one of the best ways to feel connected and empowered to make change. Donate food, organize fundraisers, volunteer at Thanksgiving food pantries, regularly help an elderly neighbor. Acts of kindness make a difference in the lives of others.
• Rutgers students can learn more about how to support the Rutgers Basic Needs Office and the Rutgers Food Pantry here.
• In New Jersey more widely, you can donate to or volunteer with the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, the state's largest anti-hunger organization. 

   📣   Attend an Event About Local or State Politics Hosted by the Eagleton Institute of Politics 

• Here at Rutgers, the Eagleton Institute of Politics, and our centers, will often host nonpartisan, educational events where you can learn more about current events, meet your representatives, engage with community members, and more. Sign up here: EIP Events

   📣   Learn More About Political Processes and Lawmaking

• You can learn more about your city council by visiting your city’s official website (just Google your city name and “city council). On this page, you will likely find information on your city council members, meeting schedules, and agendas. If this information isn’t available, you can contact the City Clerk’s office for additional details or to ask questions about upcoming meetings and how to get involved.
• NJ State House, the Lawmaking Process: This page includes an overview of the lawmaking process in NJ. Read through the page for a brief overview of how your representatives spend their time in Trenton making decisions that impact YOU and your community. To learn more about how to impact the legislative process, read more here.

📣  Take a Deep Dive into Voter Rules and Resources

• From ballot selfies to early and absentee ballots, you have questions! The National Conference of State Legislatures pools voting rules and regulations from all 50 states in one resource area. 
• The NCSL is also a great source on news and trends in state policy. 
• Rutgers participates in the nonpartisan ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge to achieve excellence in student democratic engagement. Learn more here and check out our profiles for the Camden, New Brunswick, and Newark campuses.

📣  Educate Yourself About Advocacy or Policy

• Many professional societies offer training in collective or political action to help you effectively engage in the policymaking process. 
• The Activist Training Program from the League of Women Voters provides training in four areas: understanding NJ government, grassroots organizing, voter outreach, and legislative advocacy. The training is free, nonpartisan, and conducted via Zoom.
• Check out the US Conference of Mayors programs and resources to understand coordinated activity of cities across the country on several policy areas, such as the Mayors Climate Protection Center and the Mayors Institute on City Design.
• The New Jersey State League of Municipalities has open access training information for new elected leaders, providing a resource on state and municipal budgeting and policy topics. 

  📣   Become a Citizen Lobbyist

• Attend legislative hearings: Open public hearings happen all over the country almost every week. Look at the schedule for upcoming hearings on issues or committees you care about. Take a drive to your statehouse and check them out.  Learn about the process. Get to know the elected officials working on the issues you care about (committee members, etc.)
• Give testimony at legislative hearings: Anyone can sign up to give testimony at a hearing. Make your voice heard. Do your research and prepare your remarks. Here’s a guide from the Oregon Legislature on how to give testimony.
• Remember to keep up your emailing and calling campaigns by contacting your local and state representatives on a regular basis.

 📣   Consistently Participate in City Council Activity

• By making it a consistent priority to attend open city council meetings and hearings, you will be up to date on decisions made that impact you and your community. You will also be an advocate for your community by making your voice heard. To find more information on upcoming meetings, search your city and “city council.” If a web search does not provide clear information, you can call your city and ask for the council schedule and how to attend. 

 📣   Run for Local or State Office

• Serving in an elected office is a powerful way to make a difference in your community. If you're considering a run, start by identifying which office aligns with your interests and experience—local school boards, city councils, state legislatures, and federal seats all have different responsibilities. Research eligibility requirements, election timelines, and the needs of your district. Building a campaign includes gathering support, fundraising, and developing a clear message. Many organizations offer training for first-time candidates, including centers within the Rutgers University Eagleton Institute of Politics (see more information on RU Running? and Ready to Run below for students and other emerging leaders). 
• How to Run for Office in New Jersey: Use this overview from Ballotpedia to get you started.
• Within Ballot Ready, simply type in your address, then click “Run for Office” to learn more about offices that are up for election locally and how to get started on running for them!

  📣    Training Programs and Resources 

• RUTGERS STUDENTS: RU Running? (Hosted by CYPP):  RU Running? is an interactive political campaigning workshop for young adults, particularly Rutgers students, interested in running for office. The training features breakout rooms from New Jersey-based campaign experts on fundraising, campaign communications, and creating a successful campaign strategy.
• Young Elected Leaders Project (Hosted by CYPP): Launched in 2002 with funding from the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Young Elected Leaders Project (YELP) studies and works with young people who run for or hold public office. They provide unique insight into youth representation in U.S. political institutions and study young leaders' experiences in public office. 
• Ready to Run® Campaign Trainings for Women (Hosted by CAWP): Ready to Run is a national network of non-partisan campaign training programs that are committed to electing more women to office. Ready to Run, over two days, will set you up with “how to” instructions on running, fundraising and media skills, strategies, a better understanding of party politics, and more. 
• CAWP Women’s Political Power Map: Find resources, organizations, training programs, and more across the country for women interested in running for office, working on political campaigns, or holding appointive office.
  • Other organizations (both nonpartisan and partisan) dedicated to elect more women to office with candidate training resources and more information: Running Start (young women, nonpartisan), She Should Run (nonpartisan), Emerge America (Democratic women), Emily’s List (Democratic, pro-choice women), The Campaign School at Yale University (nonpartisan)
• Run for Something: Run for Something is a non-profit that is focused on supporting progressive candidates who are interested in running for local office. If you sign up for more information, they will guide you through the beginning of the process via a conference call and more information.
  • On Instagram @runforsomethingnow
• Run Gen Z: Run GenZ is empowering, recruiting, and mentoring the next generation of conservative leaders to run for office.
  • On Instagram @run.genz
• New Politics: New Politics offers a program specifically for candidates with service backgrounds -- whether that is the military, AmeriCorps, PeaceCorps -- who are interested in running for office. If you fill out their interest form, they will get back to you to build a campaign that feels right for you.
• LGBTQ Victory Institute: LGBTQ Victory Institute invests in the next generation of LGBTQ+ public leaders by offering training programs for candidates.
• New American Leaders: New American Leaders is an organization that is focused on training and mobilizing New Americans (first- and second-generation immigrants) to run, win, and lead in public office. They offer a variety of programs for interested candidates.

   📣   Get Appointed to Local or State Office

• Did you know that there are hundreds of thousands of positions available on state, county, and local boards and commissions around the country? Did you also know that appointed positions often have significant policymaking authority? Researching boards, commissions, and elected positions can help you find the right fit. This Essex County, NJ guide is an example of the resources available to help you navigate the process in your area. 

📣   Volunteer for a Local or State Candidate’s Campaign

• Getting involved in a political campaign is a hands-on way to support candidates and causes you believe in. Whether you’re knocking on doors, making phone calls, or helping with social media, campaigns rely on volunteers at every level. To connect with campaigns in your area:
  • ​​​​​​​Check in with your state or county’s political party office.
    • ​​​​​​​Each state has Democratic, Republican, and third-party organizations looking for volunteers. (Third-party options vary by state.)
    • In New Jersey, see the Democratic and Republican state party pages. 
  • See state legislator campaign committee websites.
    • State Legislators recruit volunteers to help with re-election efforts;
  • Issue-based advocacy organizations often endorse candidates and coordinate campaign support, as well as support policy initiatives.
    • These groups may fall into several key categories, such as environmental, civil rights, health and wellness, education, housing, human rights, and animal rights. Others focus on labor organizing, economic and consumer issues, and political advocacy.
  • Check city or county Board of Elections websites for campaign and election volunteering needs.
• League of Women Voters: A trusted nonpartisan organization that provides voter education and opportunities to get involved in civic engagement efforts in your community. 
• Mobilize.us: Hub for finding volunteer opportunities with political campaigns, advocacy groups, and civic organizations. There are often local, state, and national volunteer opportunities available. 
• Explore the rules governing volunteer activity and contributions to political party committees, from personal services and expenses to in-kind donations.

📣    Start or Join an Organization Dedicated to Political Parity 

• Increasing political participation helps foster a more representative political system. Connect with groups that resonate with your beliefs or support the interests of your community. If there isn't an organization that addresses a particular viewpoint, think about creating the infrastructure yourself!

📣    Become a Poll Worker 

• Support fair elections by becoming a poll worker! It’s a great way to engage in civic participation, assist voters, and gain firsthand experience in the democratic process. To learn more, contact your County Board of Elections. 

   📣   Write an Op-Ed About a Local or Statewide Issue and Submit to a Publication 

• Writing an op-ed is a powerful way to use your voice and advocate for an issue that matters to you on the local/state/national level. You can share your perspective and opinion with the community, lawmakers, and leaders. The Op-Ed Project offers a how-to guide and publications that you can submit your op-ed to. 

  • For guidance on reliable data sources and news literacy, remember the RDL’s Media Literacy page. Check the facts via FactCheck.org. 

    📣  Start an Advocacy Campaign 

• The Action Network: Use platforms like the Action Network to mobilize support and build coalitions around an issue. 

  • The ACLU Protesters’ Rights Guide: If you choose to protest, the ACLU offers a guide on your rights as a protester. Always review this before you host or engage in a public demonstration. 

   📣  Coordinate a Letter-Writing or Call-In Campaign 

• Encourage others to contact elected officials and voice support or opposition to policies. Here are some tips to get started by the Action Network. 

   📣  Organize a Town Hall

• YOU can organize a town hall! Decide what your objectives are, find some community members to help you create the event, and get started on taking action. To learn more about how to do so, GUIDE, Inc has a great planning guide accessible to all.  

📣 Sign Up for Regular Volunteer Shifts at Community or State-wide Organizations  

• Check out RU Volunteering Opportunities and Jersey Cares for ideas. 

📣 Sign Up for a Long-Term Commitment at a Meaningful Organization 

• Making a difference in your community doesn’t have to be complicated. There are countless ways to volunteer right in your own neighborhood. Here are three ideas to get you started: 

  • Tutor or Mentor Students: Support local students by volunteering at a school, library, or after-school program. Whether you help with homework, read to young learners, or mentor teens, your time can make a lasting impact. 

  • Join a Park Cleanup or Community Garden: Keep your community green by picking up litter, planting trees, or tending to a shared garden. These efforts improve local parks, increase access to fresh food, and bring neighbors together. 

  • Volunteer at a Senior Center or Deliver Meals: Brighten someone’s day by spending time with older adults through games, conversations, or special events. If you prefer behind-the-scenes work, consider delivering meals to homebound seniors or neighbors in need. 

• Looking to volunteer in Central New Jersey? Here are three organizations to get you started. But no matter where you live, there are similar organizations to engage with.

  • Capital Harmony Works is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering social change through music education and community engagement. By providing high-quality, inclusive music programs, they empower young people and build connections across diverse communities in the Trenton, NJ area.

  • HomeFront is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending homelessness in Central New Jersey by providing housing, job training, childcare, and essential support services. Their holistic approach helps families regain stability and build a brighter future.

  • Save Homeless Animals is a nonprofit rescue organization dedicated to saving, rehabilitating, and finding loving homes for abandoned and at-risk animals. They provide medical care, foster support, and adoption services to give every pet a second chance.

📣 Immerse Yourself in New Jersey's Rich History and the Legislative Process

• Take a free tour of the NJ State Capitol in Trenton to learn more about the history, art, and architecture of the building and state government.

• The New Jersey State House encourages citizens to participate in the legislative process by attending legislative sessions and committee meetings. 

📣 Invite a Local or State Representative or Public Leader to Speak to Your Community, Classroom, Club, or Youth Group 

• Inviting a representative to speak to your group is a great way to directly engage with public leaders and understand their experience and perspective on issues. It also enables your group to ask questions, voice concerns, and gain insight into what the decision-making process is like. Using Ballot Ready, you can quickly find who your representatives are and how to contact them.